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They also come in handy for precise detail work, such as removing fine deposits left on tiles after a power tool removes the bulk of the grout.
Manual grout removal tools can be employed for small projects, like a powder room floor or a kitchen backsplash. Note that the mechanical tools mentioned here all have various uses beyond removing grout, such as cutting and sanding. The size and time frame of the project will determine whether you use manual or mechanical grout removal tools. When looking for the best grout removal tool, consider some important aspects to ensure you pick the best tool for you and your project. What to Consider When Choosing the Best Grout Removal Tool They make grout removal long, hard, and tedious work, so only rely on them for very small projects with unsanded grout, or for cleaning up tile lines after using a powered option. A manual grout removal tool generally consists of a handle and blade, with varying degrees of shape and ergonomic support. The main drawback with angle grinders is the excessive amount of dust they fling into the air, quickly creating a breathing hazard, so wear a standard N95 dust mask to filter out particles. Like rotary tools, their spinning disk requires a 1/8-inch gap between tiles to avoid damage.
They can easily cut through epoxy, sanded, or unsanded grout.
An angle grinder is a powerful tool best suited to large grout removal projects with a lot of long, straight lines. To avoid hitting the edge of a tile with a rotary tool, be sure that the gap between the tiles is at least 1/8-inch. A rotary tool with a grout removal accessory is the slowest of powered grout removal options, yet it will still kick up a lot of dust, so it’s best for smaller grout removal projects. It can do the job quickly, but if you lack experience with these powerful saws-which can jump around during use and damage nearby tiles-go slowly until you get the hang of it. A reciprocating saw with a grout grabber blade is ideal for removing hard grout, like sanded or epoxy varieties.
Though far faster and easier than manual grout removal, an oscillating tool takes more time and effort than a higher-powered option.
Rather than grinding grout into messy dust like a reciprocating saw, rotary tool, or angle grinder, this tool operates at a slower speed to take out larger pieces of grout using an oscillating motion. An oscillating tool equipped with a grout removal blade is one of the best options, and with the right blade, can be used on any type of grout.In general, the more powerful the tool, the more dust it will generate, so be sure to wear a face mask-and all other applicable personal protective equipment-while removing grout. There are many methods for removing grout, but each tool for the job comes with benefits and drawbacks.