Can I remove tile grout with a Dremel?

Quick Answer

Yes, you can remove tile grout with a Dremel rotary tool. A Dremel is an effective and convenient way to scrape out old, discolored, or cracked grout between tiles. The high-speed rotating bit can smooth away grout quickly and get into tight spaces. Make sure to use the proper Dremel attachment and take precautions against breathing in silica dust.

Does a Dremel Remove Grout Effectively?

A Dremel rotary tool with a scraping and grinding attachment is an excellent choice for removing old tile grout. Here’s why a Dremel works so well:

High variable speed: Dremels offer speed control from 5,000 to 35,000 RPM. At high speeds, the bit easily pulverizes grout.

Rotating action: The fast spinning scraping and grinding bits efficiently scrape out grout when held at an angle into the grout lines.
Precision: The narrow grinding heads reach into the tight spaces between tiles to remove all traces of grout.
Comfort: Dremels are lightweight and designed to be held comfortably in your hand during use.

Convenience: Dremels are an inexpensive and commonly available rotary tool that many homeowners already own.

The fast rotating action of a Dremel bit held at an angle makes quick work of digging into grout joints. With variable speed control and multiple bit options, Dremels have the precision and power to cleanly remove grout.

Best Dremel Bits for Grout Removal

For effective grout removal, choose the right Dremel bit for the job:

Abrasive Grinding Stone

This is a small grinding stone made of abrasive particles bonded to a shaft. When spun at high speeds, it can pulverize old grout. Look for a cylindrical or point shape to fit in grout joints.

Carbide Scraper

The sharp rotating carbide tip of this attachment scrapes out grout easily. It works well on both wall and floor grout.

Silicon Carbide Grinding Stone

This specialty bit is engineered to grind cement-based materials like grout. The silicon carbide grains pulverize and dig down into grout.

Can Any Dremel Model Remove Grout?

Nearly any Dremel rotary tool can work to remove grout. Just make sure to select a model with variable speed control for best results. Here are some top options:

Dremel 3000

The classic Dremel 3000 operates at 5,000 to 35,000 RPM with plenty of accessories. It’s lightweight, durable, and reliable.

Dremel 8220

This cordless model offers the freedom to remove grout anywhere. It runs at 5,000 to 35,000 RPM on a 12-volt lithium-ion battery.

Dremel 4000

A step up with electronic feedback for consistent speed even under load. The 4000 model also has added cooling vents for extended run time.

Dremel Micro

For tight spaces, this compact version can grind out grout in corners and along edges with ease. It maxes out at 25,000 RPM.

Any of these Dremels will make the chore of removing grout simple. Opt for a higher voltage model if working on a large area.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to safely and effectively remove tile grout with a Dremel:

1. Mark Grout Lines

Use painter’s tape to mark off the grout lines you wish to remove. This protects the tile surfaces on either side.

2. Apply Water

Lightly wet the area to keep dust down during grinding. Have a spray bottle on hand to reapply water as needed.

3. Attach Bit

Insert the chosen scraping or grinding bit into the Dremel and tighten it. Make sure it rotates true without wobbling.

4. Adjust Speed

Start at a lower RPM of about 15,000. Adjust the variable speed dial to a faster setting if needed for your particular grouting material.

5. Angle Bit into Grout

Hold the rotating Dremel bit at a 45 degree angle and work it down into the grout line. Apply light pressure as you move the tool steadily along.

6. Repeat

Make repeated passes with the bit to fully excavate the grout down to the bottom of the joint. Clean out all loose material.

7. Remove Tape

When grout removal is complete in an area, carefully remove the painter’s tape before moving on.

8. Clean Surface

Wipe away all remaining grout dust and debris. Rinse the tile and let dry completely before regrouting.

Grout Removal Tips

Follow these tips for the best results and easiest experience removing grout with a Dremel rotary tool:

Take your time and don’t force the bit. Let the Dremel do the work at a speed it can handle.
Apply only light pressure. Too much can damage the bit or tile edges.

Keep the area damp to minimize airborne dust particles.
Wear an N95 dust mask and safety goggles.
Work in small sections for best control and to avoid overheating the Dremel.

Use a low RPM to start on delicate tiles, then increase speed as needed.
Clear out debris so the bit continues cutting effectively.
Have spare fully charged batteries or an extension cord on hand.

Patience and proper precautions will lead to excellent results. With the right technique, a Dremel simplifies what can be a tedious and time consuming grout removal job.

Can I Use a Dremel on Wall Grout?

Yes, a Dremel tool works equally well to remove grout from wall tile joints. Follow the same methods using a carbide scraping or grinding stone bit. Run the Dremel slowly over the grout lines at an angle to dig out the material. Take precautions when working overhead on walls:

Use a stool or ladder for stability and to avoid overreaching.

Have an assistant mist the area with water to control dust.
Wear a headlamp for improved visibility.
Attach a zip-wall dust barrier underneath.

Keep the bit rotation speed on the slower side for better control.
Take occasional breaks to avoid arm fatigue.

With care, a Dremel can successfully remove grout between wall tiles. Work methodically and use the tool’s convenience to access tight areas.

Maintaining Tile After Regrouting

Once you’ve successfully used a Dremel tool to remove old grout and reapplied fresh grout, maintain your tile with these tips:

Use a pH neutral cleaner designed for tile and grout.
Vacuum first before wet mopping to remove abrasive dirt.

Seal grout annually with a penetrating sealer to protect from stains.
Quickly wipe up spills to limit absorption into grout.
Install floor mats at entries to trap dirt and moisture.

Avoid harsh cleaners which can discolor grout.
Re-caulk joints between tile and tub/sink edges when cracked.
Consider grout color sealant to keep grout looking new.

Replace loose or cracked tiles that could allow water under.

Proper tile and grout care will keep your remodeled space looking great for years to come. Be sure to use the right cleaners and sealants.

Conclusion

A Dremel rotary tool offers a fast, effective method for removing old tile grout that is discolored or deteriorating. Its high-speed rotating grinding and scraping bits make quick work of pulverizing and excavating grout. With variable RPMs and specialty bits for cement-based materials, a Dremel can be used to successfully clean out grout joints on both walls and floors. Taking safety precautions against breathing dust, a Dremel provides precision removal and saves time over tedious manual digging. Follow with careful regrouting and maintenance to complete the tile restoration project.