dark grout + cleanup problems [w pics]

[andjules]

I'm moving in two weeks to a custom loft purchased from the original owners - I think that makes the tile work about 6-8 years old.

I've searched and certainly these topics have been covered before, but I was hoping the pictures might help get more specific opinions.

problem #1: shower stall
discolored grout + some sloppy cleanup work.
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I think the white is mineral build up, and the original grout is dark. No idea if it was sealed or not (how do I tell?)
What are the right steps:
- to test/clean/restore grout?
- to clean up messy job on bottom wall tiles?

problem #2: bathtub
discolored grout
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You'll notice the grout is lighter towards the middle. Again, I suspect it is dark grout, turned white-ish where the water hits the most. Again, don't know if it was sealed.
- how to test/clean/restore?

THANKS everyone. Great forum, great community.

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[cx]

Welcome, andjules. :)

Real cleaning gurus will be by soon, but while you're waiting, check the corners and the gap between tiles and tub on that tub surround and see if that's some sort of soft caulking material rather than grout in those joints.

[Davestone]

Yeah it looks like smeared caulk to me,with some added mildew.That caulk would probably need to be removed to fix that and replaced.The shower looks like it needs to be scraped at the bottom and the rest cleaned with an acidic tile and grout cleaner.It looks like a mildew problam also and probably has no preslope,and will continue to be a problem.

[SABoyt]

Yep! Looks like a lot of mineral build up along with some failed caulk.Just today, i saw three showers in this condition. Pick up some Zep Professional CLR, a spray bottle and a good medium bristle brush.

Take the metal drain cover off before you start to keep it from being etched. Put a small rag in the drain hole but leave some space for the water to drain (in case you drop anything while cleaning). Spray on the Zep and let it dwell a couple of minutes, then start scrubbing! Since the tile is ceramic, no worries with the acid. Looks like it will clean up, just needs some elbow grease!

[andjules]

thanks guys. Generous communities like this are so great!