epoxy grout is a great choice when you are ready to re-grout a tile project. Because epoxy grout is so much stronger than other types of grout (particularly cement grout), you won't even need to remove all of your old grout. You can apply new grout right over the top of the old grout.
When selecting the grout you want to use, epoxy grout is a good choice. You don't have to remove all of your old grout to apply the new grout. The new grout can be applied right over the top of the existing grout.
Grout considerations: Although epoxy can be applied over both tile and grout, it is necessary to check the condition of the grout lines. Cracked, discolored, and deteriorated grout lines may ruin the strength of the epoxy coating.
Choosing the correct grout is a basic step in the process of regrouting over existing grout. The most common grout types are cementitious (which is unsanded or sanded) or epoxy (which is also sanded or unsanded).
Removing the old grout is essential for the best results, as applying new grout over the old can lead to poor adhesion and reduced longevity. For cleaning, a non-abrasive paste made from baking soda and water works well, especially on enamel surfaces. Ensure the area is completely dry before starting to re-grout.
You would also notice that adding new grout will not be aesthetically pleasing, as the new layer would be thin. This means that your old grout will be seen beneath, and if you were to only treat one area, you would see the difference in the “repaired” area versus the area that you did not add grout to.
The grout should be dug out a minimum of 3mm deep (preferably deeper) so that new grout can have a firm base and a larger surface area of the sides of the tiles to adhere to. Do not attempt to apply new grout over the damaged existing grout.
ANSWER - It is possible to grout over existing grout if there is enough depth to do so. 1/8 inch depth may or may not be adequate depending on the type of grout used. A latex modified grout may work, but you have to properly clean the existing grout to ensure the new grout adequately bonds.
This makes it perfect for wet environments like bathrooms, chemical handling rooms like laboratories, and stain prone areas like the kitchen backsplash, floor and walls. You'll not have to worry about what substances you handle in your home or business setting when you apply epoxy grout.
Jim Whitfield, manager of Technical Services at Mapei told industry professionals, “Because epoxy grout is so tough, it wears extremely well. It doesn't wear down over time and become a tile gutter—like cement grout can—where all the dirt and liquid and junk collects.”
Quick Drying
It is often considered a negative character because of its quick-drying quality. That's why epoxy grout is more prone to wastage. To avoid this, you have to work quickly and apply the grout mixture before it dries.
Sealers and various waxes can contain polymers that can discolor over time and cause yellowing. Numerous grout types are prone to yellowing. For example, white epoxy grouts are notorious for turning yellow. Certain cleaners, especially those that contain dyes, can cause discoloration of grout.
Epoxy grout won't crack, shrink, or discolour, making it ideal for applying in wet areas, such as showers. It's also highly resistant to the harsh chemicals found in cleaning products. As an added bonus, unlike traditional cement grout, epoxy grout does not need to be sealed, due to its non-porous nature.
As explained on this page, applying epoxy flooring over tiles is more of a preparation issue than a product one. All of the Real World Epoxies products and systems can be applied over tiles and achieve good results if the tiled surface is prepared thoroughly and effectively.
Start by sprinkling baking soda liberally along the grout lines. Use a brush to ensure that most of the baking soda covers the dirt and grime thoroughly. Then use a sprinkler bottle to sprinkle cleaning vinegar over the baking soda while taking special care to dampen the powder along the entire grout line.
When applied, epoxy grout forms a stronger & durable bond between the tiles, & due to its exciting benefits & strongest bond, it will have a life expectancy for minimum 10 years.
Because epoxy grout is so much stronger than other types of grout (particularly cement grout), you won't even need to remove all of your old grout. You can apply new grout right over the top of the old grout.
It's Waterproof
Perhaps the biggest draw with epoxy grout has been the fact that, unlike cement, it is completely waterproof. It's made with resins so, it won't crack or wear over time, and there will be no seepage. You as a pool owner do not need to worry about any water leaks through your tile.
Epoxy grout is also the most expensive grout choice, however, it doesn't need a sealer, which can save time and money in the long run.
For the best longevity, it's recommended to remove old grout before applying new grout.
Unsanded Grout Is Best for Narrow Grout Lines
Sanded grout is thicker than unsanded grout, making it difficult to work into narrow grout joints.
Shrinkage and poor grout selection are common causes of grout cracking when drying. If the joints are wide, use the appropriate grout for wider joints to prevent cracks when grout shrinks as it dries. Excess water in the mix also causes grout cracks when drying.
A dedicated grout rake or a Stanley blade is best for removing existing grout. Grout rakes can be both mechanical and electric. Any electric grout rake is usually 240V and has variable speeds. The Rubi Grout Remover helps to remove grout surrounding ceramic and porcelain tiles.
As go-to grout and tile care specialists, The Grout Medic truly wants what is best for your tile. Waiting too long to wipe grout could result in unsightly grout haze. Don't wait too long to wipe off grout!
To remove grout from the surface of your tile, try the sugar and water method. In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of sugar and 1-gallon hot water. This mixture will soften the grout, allowing you to scrub it away. Using a clean cloth, sponge, or brush, apply the sugar and water mixture to the grout you want to remove.