If you notice that your tile grout is stained, cracked, or loose, it's probably time to repair or replace it!
Getting Started: What You Need to Know About Grouting
The decision to repair or replace grout is partly subjective, but it usually boils down to the grout's age and the extent of the damage. For a variety of reasons, your grouting may require repair or replacement. It's possible the grout is old.
If the grout is not old, it could have been applied incorrectly or in an unprofessional manner. The movement of the floor tiles is a common cause of grout chipping. Determine the cause of the problem first so you can repair or replace your grouting without having to do it again.
Replacing or repairing grout can be a do-it-yourself project. There are numerous reasons why grout cracks, and if the damage is extensive, consider hiring grouting experts. It is time to replace the grout if it is old and damaged, such as crumbling.
Grout Repair or Grout Replacement?
Grout that has become discolored or dirty appears lifeless and dull. The good news is that a good scrubbing with warm water and a household cleaner like Lithofin KF Grout Protector - 500ml will bring it back to life and make your tile look brand new if it's in good shape.
If the issue is not just soil, but also cracked, crumbling, or missing grout lines, you'll need to remove the grout and then repair or replace it. It is no longer just about appearances. Broken grout is ineffective as a moisture barrier, allowing water from your shower or sink to seep behind the tile. The end result will be loose or even falling tiles, as well as the growth of mould.
You might not need to replace all of the grout, which is good news. To determine the extent of the damage, examine the tile surface closely. Repairing the grout will be a simple task of an hour or two if it is confined to one small area. However, if you need more extensive grout replacement, you might want to hire a tile pro from a trusted surface restoration company like Stone Doctor Australia.
DIY Grout Repair:
As a homeowner, you're in luck because Aqua Mix Grout Colourant (20 Colors) - 237ml can now be used to repair grout. This is a simple waterborne epoxy that recolors, seals, and revitalizes existing grout joints. Designed to provide maximum stain resistance. With 20 different colors to choose from, you can change the appearance and color of your faded, stained, or patchy grout. It also makes ongoing grout cleaning easier.
Conclusion
Grout repair or replacement is highly dependent on the circumstances. It is largely determined by the extent of the damage. If your grout is only lightly damaged, you may be able to achieve the desired results by simply repairing it. This is the ideal result, and it will be much easier than the alternative.
If the damage is severe, you will almost certainly need to replace all of the grout. This may seem like a lot, but it's well worth it to avoid the other problems that come with damaged grout. You'll need to consult a professional to figure out which outcome is best for your situation.
Read more:
Grout Restoration featuring Aqua Mix Grout Colourant
Unfortunately, Grouting Is an Integral Part of Wall & Floor Tiling
Frequently Asked Questions:
Should you replace grout?
When should I replace my grout?
Can you replace just grout?
Can I go over old grout with new?
Is it worth it to regrout?
Is it cheaper to regrout or replace tile?
Do I have to remove all old grout before Regrouting?
Is it better to clean grout or regrout?
What happens if you put grout on top of grout?
Is it expensive to replace grout?