walter wrote:
My kitchen and bathroom counters are covered with beautiful 4"
ceramic tiles and 1/2 " grout lines. They have lasted for 30 years
without a chip or blemish.

The problem is with the grout. Originally it was probably sealed.
Over many years, the sealer has deteriorated. It is kind of scaling
off and does not look so good any more.

So, I would like to remove all remnants of the original sealer, then
scrub the grout free of accumulated grime and then apply a new sealer.


I can remove the old sealer pretty well with a brass bush, which does
not scratch the tiles. However, it is hard work and I am tired of it.

Is there a mechanical scrubber that will take the hard work out of
refurbishing my grout?

What do the pros use? I am sure they do not do it with a small brass
toothbrush.


Another possibility is to use what I call a reefing iron. My experience
with them has been to remove material from the seams in boats. There is
something made for masonry seams that is essentially the same but I don't
know the name...maybe "seam chisel" or "joint chisel". This is what they
look like, "D" in photo near bottom...

http://www.sydnassloot.com/caulking.htm

The blade is tapered both vertically and horizontally. To use, one taps the
tip into and along the seam, lifting up to break up and expel material.

I've never tried one on masonry or grout but if I had a sizeable area of
grout to remove I'd certainly give one a whirl. I'm sure it would work far
better than these over priced Dremel cutting wheels.

If joint width permits, I might use a circular saw with a masonry cut off
wheel. Gotta stay away from the tile edges though.



--

dadiOH
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