Listener Submitted Question:
Listener: Pierre

We’re just getting underway with our ensuite bathroom renovation: new paint to cover the original builder’s paint (way too many years old); relocation of the electrical outlet (no longer almost in front of sink); a new mirror; and lastly, re-grouting of the shower tiles. Over the years, the grout on both the floor and walls has started shrinking or eroding away at places. I’ve chosen a non-sanded grout as the joint widths are equal to or less than 1/8”. My question is: do I need to remove absolutely all the old grout? How well will new grout adhere to old grout? And lastly, can you recommend the best sealing procedure for a shower application?


Bryan’s Answer:

Good idea on the outlet move, but be sure to replace it with a GFCI!

If your grout is disappearing, it’s possible that it wasn’t mixed properly, or hasn’t been sealed over the years. You’ll want to remove as much of the old grout as possible, but you definitely don’t have to remove it all to get the new grout to stick. Make sure the shower has had a chance to completely dry out before getting started - don’t use it until you’ve given the new grout a chance to set up and the sealer to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Sealing the grout can be done with a sealer that comes with an applicator, a rag, or my preferred method for tight lines – a foam brush.

You’ll need to head down the tile aisle and grab yourself a grout saw to remove the old grout, a sponge and rags to clean the tiles and grout lines, a couple of buckets, a grout float, a bag of unsanded grout and a mixing paddle, and the sealer of your choice. You may also want to hit the paint department to grab some drop cloths, a foam brush and a small paint tray.

Have fun grouting!