For this weekend, more like today, I contemplated re-grouting the bathroom shower or trying to do something with the dirty grout on the bathroom floor. Well, it was getting late in the day to start trying to re-grout the shower because I do want to take a shower tomorrow. So, I opted for the floor.
I bought some grout cleaner and a brush. Now, I've scrubbed that floor before with Mr. Clean, but it just didn't work. I needed something more intense. So, I started... on a test patch, which is supposed to be in a hidden area, but I opted for the dirtiest part, right in the middle! Heck, if it doesn't work, I will end up ripping out the grout and putting new in - and sealing it! (I'm guessing whoever did it last didn't seal it.) But then again, I'm noticing many of the improvements previous owners have done have been less than stellar craftsmanship.
Here's a before picture:
Now, there are a lot of many different shade of the grout on this floor, ranging from a cream color to a gray, to this nasty stuff. Some spots are dirtier than others. So, I mixed the solution, and started scrubbing away. I let it sit for 5 minutes, then cleaned it off. Here's how it looked:
Some improvement, but as I thought, I'd need another shot at it. I did it again, and this time left it work its magic longer. Here's after the 2nd try:
Better, but not the result I'm looking for. I guess I could do a few more tries?
I think my options at this point are: leave it like this, scrub a few more times, buy a stronger acidic cleaner, or re-grout. Each has it's pros and cons.
What do you think? Any other suggestions?
Great job scrubbing away! Normally I would say, "rip it out, start over!" But after having done home projects myself...I know how tedious and exhausting they can be! You ask a very difficult question that leaves me asking more questions... do you really have to rip out the old grout, can't you just grout over it? If you can, that's what I would do. However, if you ever think you'll want to replace the flooring, then maybe you just want to clean it some more and wait until you can actually replace the floor instead of regrouting. What do you think?
ReplyDeleteIt does look better, but you might need to just regrout. I think I will be overhauling my shower at some point...so after you get the hang of it from doing your floor...you can help with my shower! :)
ReplyDeleteWell...I think when you re-do the tile, you should definitely put heating underneath it! That is my absolute favorite thing in our whole remodel! It is wonderful. And remember, Tim owns a tile saw so there is no need to buy one of your own. Re-doing it will definitely be a HUGE job but you might be happier with it in the end. Either way, of course, let us know what you decide...maybe we can help. Heidi..you too!
ReplyDeleteHeidi, did Kim just volunteer you to help me? :)
ReplyDeleteI don't think I want to replace the tile... I like it and it's in good shape, so I think re-grouting it will be the choice. Of course, I need to finish my closets first!