Scraper for cleaning joints between tiles. How to remove grout from joints: general recommendations from experts. How to remove grout from tile joints using chemical reagents

Garden and driveway paths lined with paving slabs look neat and attractive. Given that the right choice material, walking on them is safe and comfortable. But over time paving slabs moss may appear. It negatively affects the operational and aesthetic performance of the paths. That is why for many owners of private houses and summer cottages the question of how to get rid of this vegetation is relevant.

Where does moss on tiles come from and why is it harmful?

Moss - low-growing spore perennial. It feels especially good in damp, shaded areas. Moss spores are easily carried by the wind. Once in a favorable environment, the plant begins to multiply rapidly. If you don't clean the paving slabs right away, a solid green carpet will form on them. Moss adsorbs (absorbs) water well, so it is always moist underneath. This negatively affects the characteristics of the tile: it will gradually deteriorate. Other negative points:

moss makes the path more slippery, and this reduces the safety of movement;
vegetation between the tiles looks unsightly and can also lead to a change in the shade of the paving stones.

Mechanical moss removal

To remove moss from paving slabs, homeowners often use simple mechanical devices: scrapers, spatulas or brushes. With their help, you can manually remove vegetation. After this, the surfaces are washed with water. However, this method has its drawbacks:

Mechanically, it is almost impossible to completely get rid of moss on paths. The remaining spores will germinate and the cleaning will have to be repeated;
this is a long and labor-intensive process;
To completely destroy moss on paving slabs, the mechanical method should be combined with the chemical method: use special compounds to combat vegetation.

Effective removal of moss from paths using Karcher washers

We offer several practical advice how to deal with moss on tiles:

since moss not only covers the surface of the stone slab with a thick layer, but also penetrates into the pores of the stone, a mud cutter is used to remove it;
mud cutter creates a rotating flow high pressure, combining the power of a point jet with the significant productivity of a fan jet;
the jet should be directed at the surface almost vertically from a distance of 20-30 cm and slowly move it from one edge of the moss-covered slab to the other;
The splash guard attached to the mud cutter will protect you from flying splashes of water.

In the Karcher catalog you can choose a dirt cutter with a powerful rotary nozzle for high-pressure washers of any class - from K 2 to K 7, for example DB 160 DIRT BLASTER for sinks K 5 - K 7. Using practical examples, we want to show you how It is necessary to work correctly with a high-pressure apparatus and what should be taken into account when doing so. Special accessories give it the widest functionality. It is convenient for blasting, clearing pipes, clearing decks, or even pumping water out of a pond. Perhaps you will find other areas of application for your device! When performing work, remember that the maximum impact pressure of the jet is achieved at its exit from the nozzle. Therefore, it is better to remove stubborn dirt from a short distance. To remove minor stains and treat sensitive surfaces, increase the distance between the object and the nozzle.

When deciding how to remove moss from paving slabs, consider using a high-pressure washer. This device not only effectively fights vegetation, but can also become a great assistant in other work on a personal plot or summer cottage. Contact our managers and they will advise you.

Grouting the joints between the tiles is the final finishing touch to the bathroom, which not only gives it a complete look, but also performs important practical functions. The fact is that ceramic tiles are protected by glaze only on top, while the bottom side and edges can be destroyed over time by moisture penetration.

The grout composition closes these weak spots due to its high moisture-proof properties. However, the service life quality tiles is calculated in tens of years, while grout lasts several times less. To renew the decorative covering of tiled walls, it is necessary to remove the old grout. This article will help you clean seams quickly and efficiently.

Causes of premature wear

If very little time has passed after renovating the bathroom, and the tiles have already lost their attractiveness, most likely the problem is that the seams have darkened or changed color. There are several reasons why this problem occurs:

Poor-quality seam sealing, when it is not filled completely, not to the full depth, or with gaps;
Error in choosing grout composition. The type of grout is selected based on the temperature, humidity of the room, the nature of its use and the equipment being installed;
Error when preparing solution. If, when making a grouting composition from a dry mixture, its consistency turns out to be more liquid, if you do not follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, the reliability and durability of the seams are reduced;
Lack of efficient ventilation, which only contributes to the appearance of dampness in the bathroom;
Incorrect technology for applying grout to tile joints;
The use of aggressive detergents based on acid, which corrodes the grout;
The emergence and penetration deep into the grout composition of mold;
Active contamination of light-colored seams.

Cleaning will help you understand that removing old grout is really necessary; if even thorough cleaning with an aqueous solution of citric acid does not improve the condition of the tiles, then feel free to get to work.

The need to clean the seam

If the seams have changed color and cannot be removed with a stiff brush, use detergents, most likely mold has “settled” there. The following signs will help you understand that it’s time to take up the instrument:

The grout is falling out of the seams in chunks, gaps are clearly visible in some places, and the ready-made mortar has already fallen out;
The darkening is not removed by sanding the top layer with sandpaper;
The seams look dirty.

It is useless to superficially clean or paint over a seam affected by tiles; it requires complete reconstruction, however, if the tile itself is already loose or falling off, it is more advisable to think about major renovation bathroom

There are several ways to remove worn-out grout from tiles, depending on what tool you use:

Mechanical using power tools;
Mechanical using hand tools;
Chemical.

Use of power tools

To remove grout from tile joints, use an electric tool, for example, a grinder or a drill. This method is good for its speed, but is only suitable for experienced craftsmen with a steady hand that won't waver when stripping. This method is used only by real professionals who are confident in their abilities; it is not suitable for use by amateurs. Please note that using power tools carries a risk of damage to the tiles and chipping, which can lead to serious financial expenses to eliminate flaws.

To clean the grout seam with a drill or grinder, you need to cutting edge or a drill along it, maintaining the same pressure. You need to act quickly and clearly, staying exactly in the middle of the gap between the tiles. Corners deserve special attention and care. If you are still concerned about the safety of the tile, adjust the stopper so that it covers its edge.

Manual stripping

The mechanical method of removing grout is to eliminate the mortar from the joints using hand tool. It involves a more serious investment of time and effort, but is more delicate in relation to the decoration of the bathroom. You will need:

Stitcher or sharp painting knife;
Chisel;
Composition for primer with antibacterial components;
Sponge;
Fine sandpaper;
Individual protection means.

Advice! To remove grout from a seam using a hand tool, you should protect the surface of the tile with film and the edges with masking tape; it would be a good idea to cover the floor with something, as there will be dusty work ahead.

To quickly free the seams from the mortar, follow these steps sequentially:

Take the stitcher in your hand; if you don’t have a tool, you can use a well-sharpened knife, draw a line along the seam to be cleaned to its entire depth;
Using a chisel, cut the grout from the edge of the tile to where you cut one side first. Then repeat this procedure with the other one;
Carefully sand the edges of the tiles with fine sandpaper to remove any remaining grout;
When the seam is freed, it needs to be thoroughly coated with an antibacterial primer, which will protect against mold and improve the adhesion of the new layer. grout. After the primer has dried, the wall is ready to be sealed.

Chemical method

If the mechanical method seems too expensive to you, try getting rid of the tile grout using chemical solvents. Manufacturers offer quite aggressive compounds that can cope with any grout. However, to select a solvent, you need to know the type of grout mixture used. Using the chemical method blindly will not work, because to achieve the optimal result you can go through a lot of options. Affordable way make cleaning easier - folk method, according to which you need to treat the seams with a solution of one part vinegar and two parts water and leave for an hour.

To clean the space between the tiles from grout, proceed according to the plan:

To protect the edges of the tiles, cover them with masking tape. If the tile has a pronounced structure or you are worried about its safety, cover it with film;
Carefully apply a chemical solvent of the desired class to the surface of the seams;
Leave the solvent for the time specified in the instructions for better interaction;
After the designated period, check the degree of softening of the tiles, if necessary, repeat the treatment;
Clean the softened grout from the space between the tiles with a chisel or spatula;
Wash off any remaining reagent with a sponge and wipe dry with a soft cloth.

Seam restoration

In situations where the grout is not damaged by mold, but has only darkened as a result of contamination or you don’t like its color, there is no need for complete removal. In this case, you can restore the aesthetic appearance of the seam using a simple technique:

Make sure that the grout is indeed not damaged by mold and remains intact;
Cover the edges of the tiles with masking tape to protect against accidental damage.;
Take medium abrasive sandpaper and use small circular motions to remove upper layer grout composition;
Treat the surface with a primer with antibacterial components and let it dry;
Apply a new layer of cement putty to the seam using a rubber spatula or use a special paint marker.

Once dry, the protective tape is removed and a wax polish is applied to the entire wall surface to give the finish fresh look. This option for masonry restoration is the simplest and most delicate in relation to the decor of the bathroom.

Stripping safety

On the one hand, cleaning tile joints is not the most dangerous operation. On the other hand, it is associated with certain difficulties and requires the use the following means protection:

Respirator. It will protect the worker’s respiratory tract from dust, fungal spores, and toxic solvent poisoning;
Gloves. Durable construction gloves are designed to protect hands from exposure to chemicals and accidental cuts, as sharp tools are used in the work;
Overalls.

It is better to perform work in a well-ventilated area, taking breaks every half hour. At the time of processing, it is necessary to have an assistant present who will provide assistance in case of injury or allergic reaction to the reagent.

Whatever tool you use, after restoring the seams, the bathroom will look as if the renovation was completed just yesterday.

Video instruction

Goods ordered in the OBI online store are delivered throughout Moscow and the Moscow region within 50 km from the Moscow Ring Road. Delivery costs are automatically calculated when placing an online order, based on the weight of the product and delivery area.

Minimum order amount for free delivery:

We will deliver your order free of charge if the delivery address is located in the first delivery zone for online orders, and also:

> 5,000.00 RUR- for orders weighing up to 5.0 kg
> 10,000.00 RUR- for orders weighing up to 30.0 kg

The courier service delivers small-sized orders (weighing up to 30 kg) to the buyer’s door, large-sized ones - to the entrance (wicket, gate) of the house. Delivery includes free unloading of goods from the vehicle and their transfer within 10 m.

Delivery date and time

Next day delivery is available when ordering before 6:00 pm. You will be offered a choice of one of two 7-hour delivery intervals:

- from 10:00 to 16:00
- from 15:00 to 22:00

If you want to reduce the waiting period, you can choose one of the 3-hour delivery intervals for an additional fee:

- from 10:00 to 13:00 +350.00 ₽.
- from 13:00 to 16:00 +300.00 ₽.
- from 16:00 to 19:00 +300.00 ₽.
- from 19:00 to 22:00 +350.00 ₽.

Rescheduling the date and changing the delivery time interval is possible no later than 24 hours before the previously agreed date and time.

Read more about the working conditions courier service can be found in the section

The tile seams are the most weakness in tiled covering. They are most susceptible to rapid wear, cracking and color fading. The surface finish loses its aesthetics and attractiveness and a complete replacement of the grouting material may be necessary. How to do this work correctly and not damage the tiles is described in the article.

Causes of premature grout wear

During operation ceramic tiles Situations often arise when the coating itself has not yet exhausted its service life, and the grouting has lost its aesthetics and does not fulfill its moisture-proofing functions. This problem may be a consequence of several factors:

Incorrectly selected grout composition. The solution must be selected taking into account the humidity, temperature regime and the purpose of the premises.
Mistakes made when applying grout. The most common is sealing seams with gaps or not to the full depth.
Making the solution not according to the instructions. The liquid consistency of the grout reduces its strength and durability. When mixing the dry mixture yourself, you must adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Not proper care behind ceramic tiles. Acid cleaners destroy the grout structure.
The appearance of mold on the walls of the bathroom and the penetration of microorganisms into the space between the tiles.
Increased humidity and dampness in the room due to lack of sufficient ventilation.
Light-colored seams get dirty quickly.

Before deciding that it is time to remove the old grout from the joints, you need to carefully examine it and assess the degree of its destruction.

Assessing the condition of old grout

The first step is to thoroughly clean the seams. If the grout has no cracks and you simply want to update the color, then complete dismantling of the grout can be avoided. Things get worse when deformations, fungus and mold appear between the tiles.

Determine the need complete replacement Grouting can be done according to the following criteria:

There are gaps in the seams, the grout crumbles and falls off.
When cleaning the seams with sandpaper, the color of the top layer of grout does not change. This indicates the spread of mold and requires removal of the old grout followed by disinfectant treatment of the joints.

Depending on the tools used and Supplies There are two main methods of grout removal: chemical and mechanical. To protect the tiles from cracking, you need to clean the seams correctly, adhering to the chosen technology.

How to remove grout from tile joints using chemical reagents

The most gentle option for removing grout is the use of chemical reagents. Special solvents “corrode” the hardened filling without damaging the tile itself.

Important! Chemical composition selected according to the type of grout. Work with the reagent must be carried out strictly according to the instructions using personal protective equipment (rubber gloves and a respirator).

You can remove the grout from tile joints using the following solvents: Sopro ZEA 703/ZSE 718, Atlas Szop/Szop 2000, Clean, Keranet and Litoclean.

Most compounds are based on acids, which, if used incorrectly, can damage the surface of the finish. Some solvents may leave white marks on the tiles.

We will describe the procedure for removing grout tiles chemical solution:

Apply the reagent along the seams with a thin brush or a special dispenser.
Leave the solution for a while (about five hours). The chemicals begin to act and the grout softens.
Try to pick out the grout construction knife. If it does not come off well, then the reagent must be reapplied. To remove cement grout, the treatment will have to be done twice.

Some substances completely dissolve the grout and after a certain time it is enough to rinse the wall.

Removing grout using mechanical methods

Choosing the right tool

The following tools may be useful for cleaning tile joints:

Removing grout with an electric drill

Before removing epoxy grout from the joints, it is necessary to carry out preparatory measures:

Prepare a solution by mixing equal parts water and table vinegar. The last component can be replaced with citric acid - this will avoid the appearance of a sharp vinegar smell.
Moisten a sponge in an acidic solution and generously lubricate all seams. When using vinegar, the impregnation must be kept for about 30 minutes, and when using citric acid - 24 hours.
Place on electric drill thin drill, the width of which does not exceed the thickness of the tile joint.
Turn on the tool at minimum power and slowly “walk” between the tiles.
After completely removing the grout, clean the resulting grooves with a hard brush.
Rinse the seams and treat them with an antiseptic composition.

How to remove grout between tiles with a knife: step-by-step instructions

If you don’t have a drill at hand, you will have to clean the seams with a knife. For the job, it is important to choose a tool with a comfortable handle, since the process will be lengthy.

Procedure for removing grout:

Traditional methods for removing old grout

For those who support the use of improvised means, folk methods are suitable.

Method 1. Using a concentrated solution of vinegar or citric acid. The prepared reagent is applied to the grout and left for a day. After time, the grout is removed with a spatula or a construction knife. You can replace acidic components with a means to combat lime on plumbing fixtures or with an acid-based dishwashing detergent.

Method 2. Prepare a solution of one part glycerin and three parts water. Apply the mixture to the seams and leave them for a while. Use a plastic spatula to remove the old grout. A glycerin solution is also useful for solving the question: “How to remove dried grout from tiles?” The cleaning technology is similar to the described procedure - after application, leave for a while and wipe with a cloth.

Method 3. If the grout gets on the tile and dries, you won’t be able to wash it off with water. For this purpose, you can use a solution of water with white spirit or kerosene. With the diluted mixture, just moisten the sponge, squeeze it lightly and wipe the surface of the tile with it.

Restoration of tile joints

Sometimes you want to simply update the interior of your bathroom or kitchen. To avoid lengthy and expensive repairs, it is enough to restore the grout. It is possible to restore the original appearance of the tile joint using a simple technique:

Make sure the grout is not cracked or damaged by mold.

Cleaning tile joints is not a particularly difficult operation, but performing the work will require attentiveness and perseverance from the performer. To ensure that the tile covering is not damaged and that the new grout lasts for a long time, you must adhere to the described technology and the advice of experts.

In order not to often have to decide how to quickly remove the old grout between the tiles, it is necessary to properly care for the tiles and periodically clean the seams. Thus, it will be possible to extend the original appearance of the cladding and not resort to repair work ahead of time.

How to remove grout from tile joints: video

This video is dedicated to the original and effective way quick cleaning of joints between tiles. In the future, it is planned to fill these seams with grout. I am the author of the channel SAMODEKIN and GADGET+, I’ll tell you what tool I use for this and tell you how to implement all this.
To clean the seams using this method, you will need the following tools. Sprayer with water to wet the seams, screwdriver, cleaning attachment wooden coverings from varnishes and paints. The nozzle is needed not with metal bristles, but with plastic, then it is perfect for this method.

When working with the nozzle, you need to take into account some rules. The seams must be cleaned of mortar, and the nozzle must not damage the tile when it comes into contact with it. And to do this, you first need to check how the tile reacts to the nozzle upon accidental or intentional contact with it. In this case, the tile withstood all possible actions with the nozzle, so the master used it.

This method is suitable not only for construction work with filling joints with grout, but also for everyday cleaning of dirty joints in the bathroom. However, in this case, the brush must be soft enough so as not to destroy the layer of existing grout and other decorative coating. Work should be carried out carefully and carefully, using cleaning agents, and not with an emphasis on mechanical processing.

Source: YouTube

Laying the tiles is completed by grouting the joints, which have an attractive appearance and give the entire surface completeness. But, alas, after some time, dirt begins to accumulate between the joints of the tiles, and with constant exposure to moisture, mold also multiplies. To avoid this problem, you should periodically clean the tile joints; we will discuss how to clean the joints between the tiles below.

Seams between tiles - grouting options

Before moving on to the immediate issue of cleaning the joints between the tiles, you should first study the materials that are used in the grouting process.

All compounds that are used during grouting are divided into two main types:

1. Mixtures with a cement base.

They appear in the form of a powder filler, diluted with water or latex. Inexperienced specialists work with mixtures that contain Portland cement substances. This grout is quite elastic and easy to work with. Plus, it fills even the tightest joints with ease.

To dilute this kind of mixture, a respirator and safety glasses are used. Since there is a risk of the mixture getting into the eyes or causing an allergy.

There are mixtures for cement based in a ready-to-use form. This material is also convenient to use, but its cost is much higher. Therefore, it is practically not widespread in the construction industry.

When mixing the mixture yourself, it is recommended to strictly follow all instructions specified by the manufacturer. If this is not done, the solution will be too liquid and will spread after drying and form cracks. Using a solution that is too thick risks the fact that the mass is not able to fill all the joint areas, so the tightness between the tiles is broken.

2. Grouts based on use epoxy resin.

This mixture has the highest strength and adhesive properties, in addition, the percentage of its moisture absorption is almost zero. It is used in the process of grouting joints between tiles installed on the surface of a swimming pool, in a bathroom, bathhouses, on the façade areas of a building, in rooms with high performance characteristics.

The use of such grout requires special care and scrupulousness from the person performing the work. Since to remove excess material you will need to apply special efforts, there is a risk of damage to the tile itself.

The grout contains epoxy resin and a special hardener, which fixes it to the surface. It is sold in a different package and mixed with the main composition before starting work. The finished mass is not intended for long-term storage.

Seams between tiles in the bathroom - cleaning with chemicals

Before moving on to considering the means used to clean tiles, a few words should be said about the rules for caring for them. If they are not adhered to, the tile will serve its owners for a short period of time and will lose its appearance.

Despite the fact that ceramic tiles are highly durable and resistant to various types of influences, there are a number of rules for their operation:

abrasive cleaners or a metal brush are not suitable for cleaning tiles with a glossy surface; even with minor scratches, the original shine will be lost;
chemical compositions based on the use of acid can easily damage the seams between the tiles on the floor;
to improve the strength of the seams, it is recommended to use paint based on epoxy resin, it improves their resistance to a humid environment;

in the process of washing tiles, you should rely exclusively on specialized products that are intended for cleaning ceramic tiles; the use of other types of products is unacceptable;
do not use cleaning products that contain pumice, sand, or fat solvents in the form of soap;
if there is a need to remove various types of contaminants, then for these purposes use a brush with soft bristles, which is not capable of removing the coating on the tile;
To wash matte tiles, use specially designed emulsions; after washing, they are covered with wax mastic, which makes its color more expressive.

To purchase a product that will help you clean the seams between the tiles, just contact any hardware store. Exists great amount cleaning products intended for cleaning tiles and the joints between them.

Chemicals are characterized by the following advantages:

the ability to remove mineral deposits;
effective fight against unpleasant odor;
protection from harmful microorganisms, bacteria and germs;
the use of aromatic additives fills the room with a pleasant smell.

Please note that each type of tile has its own characteristics, which determine the type of cleaning agent used in the process of washing it. Before using this or that composition, you should carefully read the instructions from the manufacturer.

For example, if you use a solution that contains chalk to wash ceramic tiles, stains will appear on the surface, which are very difficult to get rid of.

Do not use chemicals immediately. First try to get rid of dirt with a soft brush and water. If the desired effect cannot be achieved, then resort to more radical methods.

An excellent remedy in this matter is the powdered mixture “Pemolux”. To apply it, you should use the same brush, which is wetted first in water and then in powder. In this case, it is better to wear rubber gloves. After applying the composition, it is recommended to wait about ten minutes, and then clean all seams with a brush.

The use of this method is relevant if the tiles have slight dirt.

How to clean the seams between tiles using folk remedies

moisten the tile surfaces;
apply baking soda with a sponge;
wipe the surface of the tile to remove dirt;
Do not press too hard on the surface, as there is a risk of damaging the tiles.

Bleach helps make tiles and the joints between them snow-white and shiny:

dilute the lime with water until a liquid mass is obtained;
using a spray bottle, apply the solution to the surface;
After seven minutes, wipe the tiles with a damp cloth.

Tip: use a mask when performing this method cleaning, as there is a risk of unpleasant odor. Although the positive aspect of such cleaning is the fact that all mold and pathogenic bacteria are destroyed between the seams.

Using acetic acid will help deal with stubborn stains between tile joints. To clean the grout between tiles, follow the instructions:

apply vinegar essence using a spray bottle;
using a brush, spread the vinegar over the surface of the seam;
After 7 minutes, wash off the vinegar with a damp cloth.

Please note that acetic acid not used in pure form. It is diluted in a ratio of 1.5 tablespoons per 500 ml of water. It is recommended to use this method first before applying bleach, since cleaning with vinegar is more gentle and harmless to both the tile and the skin of the person doing the cleaning.

Another popular method for cleaning the joints between tiles is lemon acid. To do this, follow these steps:

take a sponge and wet it with water;
lightly wring out the sponge and dip it in citric acid;
After 3 minutes, rinse the solution from the surface.

The width of the seams between the tiles does not in any way affect the use of one or another processing method. In addition, you should take into account the fact that after using any of the above cleaning methods, you should definitely rinse off the solution and wipe the tiles dry.

Another folk way Cleaning tiles involves a combination of the above methods. To prepare the solution you will need to mix in a metal container:

3 glasses of water;
0.25 cups of soda;
0.15 vinegar essence;
0.15 citric acid.

Be sure to wear gloves when working with the cleaner. This substance is quite aggressive, so you need to work with it quickly. Use a toothbrush or sponge to clean.

Apply the compound to all seams and wait ten minutes. By using clean water wash off the composition from the surface. It is preferable to perform the procedure at least twice. With this solution it is easy to get rid of even the most difficult stains.

How to clean the joints between tiles in the bathroom using the mechanical method

To use this cleaning method, you do not need to go to the store for chemicals or prepare mixtures based on folk recipes.

It is enough to have sandpaper at home. It is with its help that the seams are cleaned. Only Special attention should be given to the tile; it is unacceptable to scratch it with paper, as there is a risk of damage appearance coverings. This option is quick and easy to implement.

After cleaning all the seams, they are treated with water, and then the tiles are wiped dry.

In addition to sandpaper, use toothbrush, sponge, dish scraper. This option is suitable for small types of contamination. In addition, as an addition to this method, it is recommended to apply washing powder to the tiles.

In answer to the question of how to clean the seams between tiles without using chemicals and folk remedies the most the best option will use a sponge based on melamine foam. This material is durable, but at the same time soft. It will easily penetrate into any pores and remove all stains and dirt without the use of chemicals.

To apply a melamine sponge, only water is required, and the less effort is applied to washing, the higher the effectiveness of the process. This sponge helps not only wash the seams between tiles, but also does an excellent job of cleaning plumbing fixtures, sinks, bathtubs, mirrors, etc.

How to clean the seams between tiles on the floor: important recommendations

We invite you to familiarize yourself with practical advice that will help make the cleaning process easier and safer:

When washing the joints between tiles, be sure to use gloves;
An excellent product for cleaning the grout between tiles and for washing the tiles themselves is Chemical substance, which is used to wash glass or mirrors;
the washing process always begins from the bottom, and the procedure for cleaning and wiping the tiles - from the top;
Great for whitening grout between tiles suitable use hydrogen peroxide, which is applied directly to their surface without further rinsing;
When polished tiles are cleaned, a special mastic must be applied to its surface, and a vinegar solution is used to improve the shine of glossy tiles.

Removing grout from tile joints

If all of the above methods for cleaning the surface between the seams of tiles did not help, then you should resort to more radical methods. If, some time after cleaning, the grout still darkens, then fungal bacteria have settled on its surface. Their main feature is the presence of characteristic dark spots on the surface of the seams.

To paint these areas, a special opaque felt-tip pen is used. It is with its help that problem areas are hidden.

In addition, there are a number of products designed to renew seams. To purchase them, you should contact a specialized store. If there is a more serious type of contamination that leads to crumbling of the grout during washing, you should resort to opening this material.

Tip: Before starting work, you should remove furniture and other objects from the room, since during the opening process it will be released a large number of dust.

The procedure is carried out with extreme care to avoid damage to the tile itself. After the first pass, all joints are wiped with a damp cloth, and then the procedure is repeated again. If emery wheel If you were unable to remove certain areas, you should use sandpaper. Next, the seams are treated with a solvent and primer. New grout is applied to the surface.

In specialized stores there are products that are designed to protect the seams between tiles. The procedure for applying them requires quite a lot of time and effort. Therefore, these funds are used very rarely. After all the seams have dried, they are treated with protective composition. A small brush is used for these purposes. It is not recommended to apply the solution to the tiles, as it destroys its integrity. If the mixture gets in, immediately wipe it off using a rag.

To avoid the need to completely remove the grout, you should ensure proper care of the tiles. Once a month you should wipe the seams with a stiff brush and warm water. Thus, it will be possible to maintain their original appearance for many years.