Remove old grout from tiles
30–60 mins — essential skill before regrouting
Old grout has to come out completely before new grout can bond. Done right, the tiles stay intact. This guide shows the correct technique and tools for wall and floor tiles.
Last updated: March 2026
Only basic tools needed — most homes already have them.
Part of the Bathroom Renovation project
Grout removal is a key preparation skill in the Phase 4: Tiling stage of a full bathroom renovation.
If you're renovating your bathroom, start here →Before you start
This guide covers removing grout from existing tiles so they can be regrouted — either because the grout is cracked, stained, or part of a renovation where all the grout is being refreshed.
If you are removing tiles entirely (rather than just the grout), you do not need to be careful about damaging them — use a cold chisel and work more aggressively.
Wear safety glasses. Grout fragments fly at speed from both manual and oscillating tools.
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Tools & materials
- ✓Safety glasses— grout fragments fly — non-negotiable
- ✓Vacuum with brush attachment— to clear dust from joints as you work
- !Manual grout rake— carbide-tipped blade — for small areas or narrow joints
- !Oscillating multi-tool with grout blade— hire or buy — essential for anything larger than a few tiles
Want everything in one go?
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Identify whether the grout is sanded or unsanded
Look at the grout joints. Sanded grout (used for joints wider than 3mm) has a slightly rough, grainy texture. Unsanded grout (used for narrow joints under 3mm) looks smooth. Floor tiles typically use sanded grout. Wall tiles typically use unsanded grout. Why: this matters because sanded grout is harder and denser — it takes longer to remove and dulls tools faster. Unsanded grout in a narrow joint requires more precise tool control so you do not slip onto the tile face. Knowing what you are working with helps you set the right pace and choose the right tool width.
Most people get this done in under 5 minutes.
Where beginners go wrong
Using a chisel and hammer. This is how tiles crack. Grout rakes and oscillating tools are designed to remove grout without the impact force that damages tiles. Never chisel grout.
Pressing sideways against the tile edge. The blade must run along the middle of the joint, not be levered against the tile face. Sideways pressure chips the glaze and leaves permanent marks.
Trying to regrout without clearing enough depth. If less than 2/3 of the old grout is removed, new grout has no depth to bond into and will crack or crumble. Clear the joint properly first.
Working without eye protection. Grout chips and dust are generated constantly. A fragment in the eye is a hospital trip. Always wear safety glasses.
When grout removal is not the right approach
If tiles are hollow when tapped (they give a dull thud rather than a solid click) — they have debonded from the wall and regrouting will not fix the underlying problem
If the grout is stained but structurally sound — try grout cleaner and a stiff brush first; removal is unnecessary if the grout is intact
If a single joint is cracked but the rest is fine — you can remove and regrout just that one joint without touching the rest
Recommended starter kit
Five tools that cover most home repairs.
- →Adjustable spannerAmazon·Screwfix
- →Screwdriver setAmazon·Screwfix
- →PTFE tapeAmazon·Screwfix
- →Spirit levelAmazon·Screwfix
- →Tape measureAmazon·Screwfix
Want everything in one go? Get it on Amazon
What you just learned
You know how to remove grout cleanly — the right tools, the correct angle, how deep to go, and how to leave the joint ready for fresh grout. This is one of the foundational skills for any tiling work.
This unlocks:
⚠️ Watch out if you rent
You can regrout tiles in a rented property without landlord permission, as it is a maintenance repair. If the grout is failing because of underlying damp or movement, report this to your landlord — they are responsible for fixing the structural cause.