How to Replace Wall Tile Grout

Often, the grout that holds the tiles on your walls is another story. If it gets dirty or soiled with mold or mildew, it takes some effort to get it clean. Or, if the grout gets cracked or crumbly, then it’s time to replace it.

The first step in this project is to use a flat-blade screwdriver, a putty knife, or a dremel to remove the old wall grout first. You’ll need to use some care when you’re digging the grout out of the cracks. Be careful not to scratch, crack, or chip the tiles surrounding the grout.

You’ll also need some grout mix. This will need to be the exact same color your existing wall grout is. If it’s old and you can match the color exactly, then choose a color that’s lighter so it will match better.

The second step is to mix up the replacement grout. Read and follow the manufacturer’s directions on the container in order to achieve the best results. Basically, though, you’ll need to mix some of the powder up with some tap water. The easiest way to stir the mixture up is by using a drill with a stirring attachment and a gallon bucket.

Begin by pouring the required amount of water into the bucket. Then, stir the water with the drill attachment. Finally, slowly add the grout powder to the bucket, a little at a time, and mix it into the water. When the grout mix is ready, it should be a rather thick, but workable consistency.

The third step will need to be done rather quickly before the mixed-up grout begins to dry out.
You’ll need a grout trowel, a clean board, a gallon bucket of clean tap water, and a some wet paper towels or an old, wet rag. Dump some of the grout out onto the board. Then, scoop a bit of the mix up with the trowel, and apply it to a crack in between the tiles. Make sure you pack the grout in firmly and that the crack is completely filled. After you have a small area regrouted, use the old rag to carefully clean the grout off the wall tiles. You’ll need to rinse it out in the bucket of clean water often to get the tiles clean.

Repeat this process of filling in the missing grout until all of the walls are completely done. Make sure that you carefully remove all the grout from the face of the tiles. But don’t disturb the grout that’s located in the cracks between each wall tile. After a few minutes of drying time, the grout in the cracks should be dry enough so it no longer can be wiped across the tile.

But, wait, your job isn’t done quite yet! Follow the instructions on the grout powder. Usually, you have to wait a minimum of two weeks or so before you proceed onto the next step.

Immediately after you have finished your replacing job, discard the remaining grout mixture, if there is any. Don’t try to pour it into a sink or use a garbage disposal as it will clog sink and drain pipes.

Scrape off any leftover grout from your trowel. You can use the water in your bucket to wash up your trowel.

Finally, when the proper amount of time has elapsed, follow the directions on the silicone sealer container in order to achieve the best results. This sealer will help make the grout more resistant to water. It will also help it to cure faster and better.

Then, reseal the grout on your walls every year or so, following the instructions.