DIY TIPS

Re-grouting tile work

If the tiles are good, but the grout beyond cleaning or simply the wrong colour, you can take out the old and refresh with a new grout job. This is a tricky job, so if you’re not handy with a mini-grinder, use a hand rake and work slowly. It’s not an expensive project.

WHAT YOU NEED:

* 18V mini-grinder with small masonry- grinding disc, or a ‘grout rake’ if you want to work by hand.

* New grout. Ready mixed is easy to work.

* Spatula or rubber grout float.

* Sponge.

* Grouting tool.

* Mask and goggles.

1 Wearing goggles and a mask, cut out the old grout in careful vertical and horizontal lines. If using a rake, cut down about 2mm in clean strokes.

2 Use the rake to clean out difficult areas the grinder might miss.

3 Wipe away all the dust and debris to prepare for new grout.

4 Using a bendy grouting spatula or rubber grout, float press the new grout into the open gaps.

5 Clean off excess grout using a damp clean sponge. Rinse and repeat until the foggy look has gone.

6 Using a damp finger, smooth the grout lines to a sleek finish.

Tip: Woodies DIY offer a complete re-grout kit by Plasplugs. The kit includes the Plasplugs grout remover rake, a grout spreader and a grout line smoother, €8.45.