Another grout question

[Lindakz]

I just bought a house and it has a large shower with rounded, shiny four inch tiles in it (Mexico style). Where the faucet must have leaked and dripped down on the grout and tiles (for a least a decade), the grout is disintigrated.

What type of grout would I use for a shower, and do I just scrape and chisel the old grout out? Do I need to seal it with any special type of sealant? Thanks!

[John Bridge]

Hi Linda, Welcome.

Mexican tiles are usually grouted with sanded grout. There are all sorts of colors, so you'll have to do some matching. Home Depot carries a good selection of Custom sanded grouts.

I wouldn't do any chiseling. I think the tiles will be soft. Work with an old screwdriver (Craftsman, of course) and just barely tap it with a hammer.

You will also want to make sure there is no soap residue in the joint when you apply the grout. Everything has to be squeaky clean or the grout won't stick.

[Lindakz]

Thanks. That's what I'll do. Just clear the grout out gently. What's the best way to remove the soap residue, etc, and does everything need to dry out before I apply the new grout?

[Bud Cline]

Linda,

You can get a small gouge for removing grout and they can be found at any Home Center. Works a little better than John's screwdriver method.

[John Bridge]

Yes, but the screwdriver is so much more of a challenge.

Linda,

After you've got the old grout out, scrub with an old tooth brush -- just water -- and allow it to dry out. Then grout.

I wonder what he's gonna replace my toothbrush with.

[Bud Cline]

I dunno........a "new" toothbrush maybe?