Removing dried grout from marble mosaics

[Jimbo]

Hi,

I have recently finished grouting our bath area, which was a long and arduous task as the missus insisted on 25mm mosaics.

I did my best during grouting to keep the tiles as clean as possible, but inevitably some grout has dried onto the tiles.

Can anybody advise on how to get the dried grout off prior to a final wash and polish? Grouting sponges are just not coarse enough, even the ones with a scouring pad on one side. Chisels just scratch the tiles (although my chisels are pretty knackered).

I've heard that a vinegar solution might help, but I'm worried that this will stain the grout?

 

[SALL2009]

Hi,

I have recently finished grouting our bath area, which was a long and arduous task as the missus insisted on 25mm mosaics.

I did my best during grouting to keep the tiles as clean as possible, but inevitably some grout has dried onto the tiles.

Can anybody advise on how to get the dried grout off prior to a final wash and polish? Grouting sponges are just not coarse enough, even the ones with a scouring pad on one side. Chisels just scratch the tiles (although my chisels are pretty knackered).

I've heard that a vinegar solution might help, but I'm worried that this will stain the grout?

I would just use a scraper or plastic scraper / grout remover. I don't think there is any other way. You can try a steamer to soften the grout up a bit first. But it is a nasty job and I am not aware of a quick fix. Only way to save this hassle is to wipe the tiles clean straight after you grout them.

 

[Jimbo]

I would just use a scraper or plastic scraper / grout remover. I don't think there is any other way. You can try a steamer to soften the grout up a bit first. But it is a nasty job and I am not aware of a quick fix. Only way to save this hassle is to wipe the tiles clean straight after you grout them.

Yes, I've learnt to my cost not to follow the instructions, which said not to wipe excess grout for 15 mins. That might have been okay on 6 inch ceramics, but not on marble mosaics!

I've found that a piece of 1 inch square hardwood cut to a length of about 6 inches, with an angle cut on the end works pretty well. A long task ahead of me though.

Cheers

 

[vv2806]

Have you tried this one

http://www.screwfix.com/p/vitrex-grout-clean-up-polishing-kit/69180#

I bought it after reading some of the topics here and it works better than any other tool I have tried.

 

[Jimbo]

Have you tried this one

http://www.screwfix.com/p/vitrex-grout-clean-up-polishing-kit/69180#

I bought it after reading some of the topics here and it works better than any other tool I have tried.

Thanks, I'm off to Screwfix this morning anyway, so I'll give it a go.