How to Remove Grout From Tile Like a Pro

If you’re prepping for a kitchen or bathroom renovation, you can save money on tile installation costs by removing the grout yourself. While the thought of removing cement grout sounds daunting, it’s a doable task for confident DIYers. In fact, once you learn how to remove grout from tile, you could spend just an afternoon getting the whole job done. This guide will walk you through grout removal step by step.

Mistakes to Avoid When Removing Grout From Tile

Removing grout from tile can be tricky. Here’s what you should avoid during the process for a seamless DIY:

• Scratching the tile: Test using your oscillating tool in a less obvious spot first to make sure you know how much pressure is too much (or not enough). Then, you can confidently remove grout from the rest of the tile.

• Not removing enough grout: For the new grout to adhere properly, you’ll need to dig enough existing grout to create at least a depth of 1/8 of an inch.

• Forgetting to prep: In case you were thinking of cutting some corners, know that grout dust is fine and gets everywhere. You might even see a haze in the air in the area where you were working. Be sure to lay down drop cloths or tarp over the entire room before you start.

When to Remove Tile Grout

Here are some key instances when you’ll want to remove grout from tile:

• Replacing tile: Even if you’re just swapping out one or two tiles, you should remove the old grout before applying more. A new layer of grout won’t adhere well to old grout, so you risk the grout crumbling and cracking sooner. 

• Fixing damaged grout: If the grout is cracked, loose, or severely discolored by dirt or mold, it’s more time- and cost-efficient to replace it rather than fix it.

• Changing grout color: If you want to change up the look of a tiled surface without a full-on new set of tiles, you might consider switching to a new color of grout. While there are ways of coloring the current grout, it’s easier to remove and replace it.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro 

If you’re handy with power tools, then you can DIY your grout removal project. You will, however, need to supply some elbow grease and patience to get the job done well. If you’re not comfortable with power tools or have physical limitations, let a local grout repair pro handle this job (they’ll finish it a lot faster, anyway).

Grout removal is often wrapped into the cost of tile floor installation or a similar project. That said, if your tile is in good condition, you can still hire a pro to replace damaged and discolored grout. You’ll pay $10 to $25 per square foot, but it depends on the size of the area and the type of tile. Larger tiles with thinner joints require less grout than smaller tiles with wider joints. 

You will, of course, save money if you DIY grout removal, but be sure you’re confident in your skills first. Otherwise, you may have to pay even more money to get it fixed.