A nice simple grouting question!

[Another John]

We've decided that it's time I regrouted our shower: the old stuff is discoloured, being a good 15 years old, I guess.

I thought that I would scrape out the old stuff just to a certain depth (it's not actually falling out or owt -- just looks scruffy).

Then I figured on obtaining a good quality "shower-grade" grout (I don't even know if such a commodity exists yet), and simply filling in the gaps back up to the appropriate level.

Any tips or comments on this proposal? Tools? Grout brands?

Thanks a lot, John

[DerbyBoy]

We've decided that it's time I regrouted our shower: the old stuff is discoloured, being a good 15 years old, I guess.

I thought that I would scrape out the old stuff just to a certain depth (it's not actually falling out or owt -- just looks scruffy).

Then I figured on obtaining a good quality "shower-grade" grout (I don't even know if such a commodity exists yet), and simply filling in the gaps back up to the appropriate level.

Any tips or comments on this proposal? Tools? Grout brands?

Thanks a lot, John

Try wiping Domestos on first. It may make re-grouting un-necessary. (don't use cheaper bleach). If it doesn't give the improvement you want then it will kill any spores that could spread into the new grout.

[TMC]

Angle Grinder?

I used one of these

not from screwfix

[John Rumm]

Try scrubbing with an old toothbrush and bleach first...

If that does not work, then a carbide segment saw on a multimater type tool will rake the old grout easily. Regrout[1] with a dry mix product (i.e. cement based, not acrylic), then treat with Lithofin grout protector before first use.

[1] Get a proper rubber faced grout float - makes the job so much easier.

[Andrew May]

I've used the carbide blade on the multimaster and found that in a couple of places it chipped the tile. Since the grout was quite soft I ended up using one of the manual tools.

Several people have recommended finishing with Lithofin before first use. Finished a bathroom before Christmas so it has not had much use, the shower isn't fully operational yet. Would it be too late to use the Lithofin?

Andrew

[John Rumm]

Much depends on the width of the grout line. If its a bit narrow, then its probably easier with a manual rake.

No harm in trying I suppose.

[Another John]

Thanks for all the replies! Just shows that even in simple things it's worth asking [in this group!]. I will seek one of those proper grout rakes, check that I have the grouting tool, and will look for Lithofin.

Oh yes and thanks, but we've been using toothbrush and (diluted) bleach on and off for years -- it's really got too bad by now!

Cheers John

[stuart noble]

IME it's the scale that holds the dirt, so vinegar is a better bet. If you're prepared to keep brushing it on for a couple of hours, it could still be a solution. IIRC raking grout is VERY tiring

[Another John]

Thanks a lot for this one Stuart -- not only a tip, but a possible "get-out"! I haven't de-grouted for a decade or so: I dunno about tiring, but Jesus HC, it was ***tedious***!!!

I'll try the vinegar (white!). Thanks again

John

[stuart noble]

A decade's worth might take some shifting but allowing the acid to trickle down in the same spot will tell you if it's doing anything.