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Tile & BacksplashIntermediate
Low riskRoutine

Regrout bathroom tile

Crumbling or stained grout? Remove and replace it in an afternoon — no tile damage needed.

Last reviewed May 31, 2026 by the EveryDIY.ca editorial team

Regrout bathroom tile
4–6 hours $40–$90 CAD pricing

Regrout bathroom tile

New grout makes an old tile wall look brand new. The job is repetitive but not difficult.

What you'll need

  • Grout removal tool (oscillating multi-tool with grout blade, or manual grout saw)
  • New grout (sanded for joints >1/8", unsanded for thinner joints)
  • Grout float
  • Sponge and two buckets of clean water
  • Grout sealer
  • Painter's tape, drop cloth

Steps

  1. Remove old grout to at least 2/3 of the joint depth. Go slowly to avoid chipping tiles.
  2. Vacuum every joint thoroughly. Any dust left behind weakens the new grout.
  3. Mix grout to a peanut-butter consistency. Only mix what you can use in 20 minutes.
  4. Apply with the float at a 45° angle, pressing grout into the joints. Work in 4 ft² sections.
  5. Wipe excess with a damp sponge after 10–15 minutes. Rinse sponge often.
  6. Buff the haze with a dry microfiber after 1–2 hours.
  7. Seal grout after 72 hours to keep it stain-resistant.

Tip

For showers, use epoxy grout — it never needs sealing and resists mould far better than cement grout.

Editorial note. Wear appropriate PPE. When in doubt — especially with electrical, gas, or structural work — hire a licensed Canadian tradesperson. See our safety policy.