Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 3: Before removing
• Part 2 of 3: The removal process
• Tips
• Warnings
• Necessities

When remodeling a bathroom or kitchen, the trickiest part is often removing the joints between existing tile work. Tiles are grouted with grout, which consists of water, cement and sand. This material hardens over time and then somewhat resembles stone. Tile joints are strong and this is why tile work is so loved. It prevents the tiles from shifting. Knowing how to remove tile grout can save you a lot of money that you would otherwise have paid to a professional.

To step

Part 1 of 3: Before removing

1. Make sure you have the necessary tools. There are a number of tools you can use to remove tile joints. The choice of tool depends on how much money you want to spend, how much and what kind of tile grout you want to remove and how often you plan to remove tile grout.
   • You can use power tools. There are several tools that allow you to remove tile grout quickly and without much effort, such as a grout cutter. These tools are very useful if you want to remove a lot of tile grout or want to do it often.
   • You can also use hand tools. If for some reason you can't use a power tool, but you need to remove a significant amount of tile grout, use hand tools such as a grout scraper. This tool resembles a small trowel.
   • If you only want to remove a small amount of tile grout or something soft like plumbing sealant, you can use a regular utility knife, such as a snap-off or utility knife.
2. Before you start removing the tile joints, put on protective clothing. In any case, wear safety goggles, a dust mask and gloves that are resistant to cutting. Consider wearing knee pads so you can work comfortably. Removing tile joints can take a lot of time.

Part 2 of 3: The removal process

1. Clean the tiles. Clean the tiles immediately if you plan to keep them. This is because grout residue can quickly harden on the tile, making it difficult to remove without damaging the tile. Fill a spray bottle with one part vinegar and one part water. Spray the tiles and let the mixture work for a few minutes before wiping it off with a clean cloth.

Tips

• If you plan to keep the tiles, it is probably a good idea to seek the help of someone who already knows how to remove tile grout. If you don't know how to use a grout cutter or a grout scraper, chances are you will damage the tiles.

Warnings

• Always wear safety glasses when trying to remove tile grout. Pieces of grout and tile chips can cut your eyes when flying around at a high speed.
• Carbide saw blades are very sharp. Always wear cut resistant gloves. You run the risk of losing a finger if you slip with the joint cutter.

Necessities

• Tarpaulin
• Safety glasses
• Dust mask
• Cut resistant gloves
• Joint cutter with carbide saw blade
• Joint scraper
• Chisel and hammer
• Sweeper
• Soap
• Scourer
• Atomizer
• Vinegar