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Standard tiled shower walls, probably 1/16" or less between tiles. Needs to be re-grouted. I've seen the standard "grout saw" like this:

enter image description here

And this triangle type:

enter image description here

I can't imagine that removing all the grout with such a beast would be time-consuming and probably give me elbow and/or wrist problems. Never mind that IME these saws are usually not very narrow and probably wouldn't get all the grout. Is there a better—preferably mechanized—solution? This can't be an uncommon issue for us DIYers.

Edit: pic of actual tile:

enter image description here

Huesmann
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  • Dremel makes grout removal tools but I haven't seen them smaller than 1/16 – Joe Phillips Aug 04 '23 at 14:07
  • I have seen professionals do this with a Dremel-style tool and small wheel. I do not know what exactly kind of wheel they used but the tiles and spacing were very similar to yours and they did it in a few hours without damaging any tiles. – jay613 Sep 18 '23 at 15:44

3 Answers3

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Given that grout is generally fairly soft, I'd have a look at thin metal cutting discs in an angle grinder. In the UK, these are typically 1mm thick.

enter image description here

Bear in mind though, that they are brittle, and will shatter if the disc is not kept straight. It will also generate a lot of dust. Make sure good eye/face/breathing protection is used.

Disclaimer: I have no idea how well these discs will actually remove grout, but it's what I would try - mainly because I have some already.

SiHa
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Removing grout with an angle grinder may damage tiles.

If I really can't afford to replace them now, then I'd try to seal them somehow, as a temporary measure.

Or do it right from the start and replace the tiles with new ones.

isherwood
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Martin
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Best way, and safest, hands down is razor blades. It's a non sanded grout on ceramic tile, if you use any power tools and cutting wheels/disks chances are a tile will chip or wheel will jump and then you got added work, a razor blade held at an angle towards the tile will pull that grout out quick. Change the blade very often to keep like brand new sharp, fir a 30 sq ft area you'll probably run through 7 or 8 blades both sides.

Wauna Tile Stoneworks
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