Hi!
OK, this sounds like a real prissy question, but it’s driving me nuts! The bathroom in my home is circa 1930s with all original tile and fixtures. The faucets have to be updated, but everything else is in good shape. The tile is aproximate 2×4 with really tight joints (1/16). My wife and I have tried a few “guaranteed to whiten grout” cleaners, and nothing seems to work. The grout is really dingy.
I considered trying to cut out the grout and regrout, but those joints are so tight! I was wondering if any tile guys are out there could offer any advice on other products or techniques. I was wondering if there might be some kind of “white stain” that I could apply to the grout?!!
Any help would be aprreciated.
cb
Replies
you can find grout "restorer" at any home center, Looks like white shoe polish with the brush at the top of the bottle. It's like painting the grout. On the other hand, if you wanna remove the grout, in such a skinny joint, use a regular utility knife. You can "cut" the grout lines repededly until clear. Expect to go through a ton of blades. And watch for fingers.
Can't I go 1 day without spilling my coffee?
This may be ludicrous, but is there a chance the grout was never white to begin with?
I`ve used a grout scraper with a carbide blade in the past, just dont make any plans for a while!
J. D. Reynolds
Home Improvements
"DO IT RIGHT, DO IT ONCE"
If you decide to go the remove and replace route, you should consider using a Fein Multi-master tool with a carbide or diamond blade made for grout removal, that is, if your joints are wide enough to accept the blade. If their blades won't fit in the joint, then I'm afraid you probably would be stuck with going the utility knife blade route. You can see these things on Fein's website. If you just don't want to spend the money for one, you may be able to borrow or rent one.
Thanks for the help.
cb
Bleach.
Reduce with water to, (anyone know the ratio? I think it is ten to one, but I usually mix it stronger), no stronger than 5 parts water to one part bleach.
Apply anyway you want, and let sit for a bit, (10-15 minutes, or usually how long it takes you to apply and take the required breaks), then scrub with a brush and rinse. Voila.
I should be seeing my tile guy tomorrow,I'll quiz him
Tile Help?
Try this online forum.....
http://www.johnbridge.com/vbulletin/forumdisplay.php?forumid=1
Ken Fisher(Hardwood Guy)