How do I remove tile grout left on the 4" tiles after regrouting?

Question

My hubby glopped it all over each tile, did not use the sponge to clean the tiles and is now gone 10 weeks out of town. I am using a razor blade and scraping each tile, there are over 400 tiles and the grout is over 1/4 inch thick between the tiles. It is a mess. Should I just scrape it all off and redo it myself leaving the tiles washed off and clean with the sponge? Or is there a rinse/acid to use that I can buy at home depot??

Answer 1

Nice mess. He did exactly what you don't want to do with grout.

I wouldn't attack the tiles with sandpaper or steel wool. Even if you can't see it, you'll be making scratches that will make the tiles a bear to keep clean. Here's a link from a guy who knows his stuff. I've done many tile jobs, but have never had to do what you're trying to do. The solution on the Web site sounds reasonable based on my experience. Good luck!

www.askthebuilder.com/433_Excess_Grout_Removal.shtml

Answer 2

I'd go to your nearest "box" home improvement/hardware store and ask. There MUST be a product that removes grout without having to do it the old way - scrape, scrape, scrape. Call them first. Maybe you'll get lucky and find someone who knows what they're talking about.
Then - regrout it yourself. There are many new products that are much easier to apply and work BETTER than the old way. Ask them about this too.
Good Luck!! (If I were you - I'd tint the grout just a bit - it will look nicer and put your personal touch on it. Your husband might not even notice.)

Answer 3

Sounds like your in a bind... You window of opportunity has passed . The only thing you can do is keep chipping away . Or if you scratching the tile and leaving marks . Pull up the whole thing and have professional do it ... Or go to Home Depot and see if there is anyone there that could help or has some advice on what you can do .

Answer 4

There are grout film removers available at any tile store. But it may not work. Or try pool acid but be very careful it very strong. open windows put fans in the room. protect yourself. You may have a problem that can not be solved without redoing.

Answer 5

They have special chemicals for that. Check the Home Depot in Tile department.

Answer 6

Try washing it down with 0000 steel wool. That should polish the tile without scratching it.

Answer 7

try using a sander to remove the grout and use a very lite grade sand paper to remove it like that
saves time and money

Answer 8

He made the mess, let him figure it out!!!!!