Regrout to rejuvenate

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  • Author Trent Moreland
  • Published April 29, 2010
  • Word count 514

Regrouting is easily one of the best ways to rejuvenate your bathroom. A good regrouting job can make your tile look brand new. It is the best way to set off the look of beautiful tiling. Rejuvenation of a shower with new grout can turn an unattractive, mouldy shower into what looks like a brand new bathroom.

Grout that's cracked, stained, and coming out in pieces not only looks terrible, it can cause problems beyond just the cosmetic ones. If water gets behind the tile, you could be starting a thriving mould and mildew colony that could be hard to eradicate. If it's time to regrout, you'll need to choose the proper grout for the job. If the tiles are spaced more than one-eighth of an inch apart or less, you should use un-sanded grout. Since it doesn't have sand, it will flow better into this narrow space. You also don't need the tensile strength with these small grooves as you would fill larger gaps.

If you have marble tiles, do not use sanded grout, because it will scratch the marble, and those scratches will be permanent. Usually, however, marble tile is installed with a gap of less than one-eighth of an inch anyway, so chances are you wouldn't choose sanded grout in the first place.

The regrouting process involves getting rid of the old grout and replacing it with new grout. Getting the old grout out usually involves the use of a power grinder, though there are other methods. There are also several types of caulk and methods for applying it. Some caulk can take care of minor repairs when applied properly. (And if you get into it, you should know that professional regrouting specialists are in demand in many places.)

When you regrout your bathroom tile, the first step is to clean it as best you can and get rid of any loose grout. Grout mixtures will have instructions on the package, and you should follow these carefully. You apply the new grout with a grout trowel, making circular motions while holding your trowel at about a 45 degree angle. You should be using a little pressure so as to remove excess grout as you apply it. Once you get the hang of it, it will go faster. Videos of this can be found on the Shower Repairs Plus website.

Once you've done this, use a small amount of water and a regular sponge and sponge off the tile surfaces where you've regrouted. You may have to do this two or three times, but finally, you'll end up with a fine film that can be mopped away.

A good regrouting job can make the difference between an unattractive bath or shower repair and an attractive one. The tile itself is easy to clean, so it's the condition of the grout that tells the tale of how well repaired a given bath or shower is. Of course, the new grout will eventually need to be cleaned, but with grout, you have one of those "ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" situations.

By Trent Moreland of Shower Repairs Plus

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