If your bathroom tiles are looking a bit grubby and you're considering retiling, why not save yourself the expense and simply revamp your old tiles. The easiest and most effective way to do this is to remove the old grout and replace with a new, clean grout.
1.
When choosing your grout, instead of a plain white or grey grout, why not try considering using a colored grout; matching it to the color scheme of your bathroom?
2.
Prepare the tiles by removing any dirt, soap scum or grease. This can be done using any bathroom cleaner, a scrubbing brush and some elbow grease (scrubbing). Make sure the tiles and grout are dry before trying to remove the old grout.
3.
Using a grout saw, thin knife or the edge of a scrapper, saw/cut out the old grout. Ensure all grout has been removed before proceeding.
4.
Using a soft brush or vacuum, remove all debris and dust. There is nothing worse than trying to create a smooth finish when "bits" of old, hard grout become mixed with the new grout!
5.
Clean the tiles again to remove any left over grout debris from the gaps or embedded dirt or grease.
6.
Prepare your grout. If you have bought powered grout, you will have to mix it following the provided instructions. For a longer lasting finish, use a grout specially designed for the bathroom.
7.
Using a spreader, begin by applying the grout to tile edges and force the grout into the joints.
8.
Remove excess grout from the spreader then run the spreader over the top of the tiles removing any excess grout from the tiles.
9.
After a few minutes, remove leftover grout from the surface with a (damp, not wet). If the sponge is too wet, the water will enter the grout and have an adverse effect on it
10.
You may wish to run a rounded dowel or peg down the joints for a neater finish. Do not dig into the grout, instead, lightly run along the joint.
After 24 hours (or according to the instructions provided with your grout) you can apply a grout sealer. This will prevent moisture and mildew from affecting the grout. If your tiles are unglazed, a sealant should be applied to both the tile and the grout.
Your tiles will now look far cleaner and have an overall effect on the appearance of your bathroom. All without the expensive and time involved of retiling.
