Grout is a mudlike product used to fill the spaces between tiles. While wet, it is malleable and easy to work, and spills are a children's game to clean. However, expert remodeling house Tim Carter points out that many people do not realize the grout is made in part of Portland cement--and dry cement is a challenge to remove from any surface. Clean grout spills as soon as possible to prevent a difficult cleaning project after the product has dried.
Instructions
• Mist unwanted grout with water from a spray bottle. Keep it moist while working for easier removal.
• Scrape large pieces of grout with a plastic scraper. Work carefully to avoid scratching the tile surface.
• Sweep or vacuum clean scrapes like you. Wet grout may adhere to a new tile section, causing the same portions of grout to be removed again and again.
• Wipe tiles with a sponge and clean water after removing all larger bits by scraping.
• Scrub the rest of the grout with fine steel wool or warm water and scrub pad. Clean the dry surface with a clean cloth while working so you can clearly see any remaining grout. Apply light pressure while scrubbing and working slowly to avoid scraping or damaging your ceramic.
• Wipe the tiles with clean water and a sponge. Dry with a clean, soft cloth.
Tips and warnings
- Avoid the need to clean excessive grout in your next tile project by treating your tiles with a grout-product version. A release grouting agent is applied after the tile is placed and the lines are filled before grouting. The release forms a temporary seal on the tile and prevents grout from adhering. It is washed with water during the normal grout cleaning process.
- Remove tile opacity just installed by polishing with a towel or chamois cloth.
- Sand grout is typically used in tiles and especially rough on the hands. Use domestic rubber gloves clean grout with sand.
- Grout-Commercial removal of products are available at most hardware stores; However, these products contain acid that may stain the tile or affect its color. If you want to use a grout removal product, try first in a discreet corner to see how it affects your tile.