Garden and driveway paths lined with paving slabs look neat and attractive. Given that the right choice material, walking on them is safe and comfortable. But over time paving slabs moss may appear. It negatively affects the operational and aesthetic performance of the paths. That is why for many owners of private houses and summer cottages the question of how to get rid of this vegetation is relevant.
Where does moss on tiles come from and why is it harmful?
Moss - low-growing spore perennial. It feels especially good in damp, shaded areas. Moss spores are easily carried by the wind. Once in a favorable environment, the plant begins to multiply rapidly. If you don't clean the paving slabs right away, a solid green carpet will form on them. Moss adsorbs (absorbs) water well, so it is always moist underneath. This negatively affects the characteristics of the tile: it will gradually deteriorate. Other negative points:
- moss makes the path more slippery, and this reduces the safety of movement;
- vegetation between the tiles looks unsightly and can also lead to a change in the shade of the paving stones.
Mechanical moss removal
To remove moss from paving slabs, homeowners often use simple mechanical tools such as scrapers, spatulas, or brushes. With their help, you can manually remove vegetation. After this, the surfaces are washed with water. However, this method has its drawbacks:
- Mechanically, it is almost impossible to completely get rid of moss on paths. The remaining spores will germinate and the cleaning will have to be repeated;
- this is a long and labor-intensive process;
- To completely destroy moss on paving slabs, the mechanical method should be combined with the chemical method: use special compounds to combat vegetation.
Effective removal of moss from paths using Karcher washers
We offer several practical advice how to deal with moss on tiles:
- because moss not only covers the surface with a thick layer stone slab, but also penetrates into the pores of the stone; a mud cutter is used to remove it;
- mud cutter creates a rotating flow high pressure, combining the power of a point jet with the significant productivity of a fan jet;
- the jet should be directed at the surface almost vertically from a distance of 20-30 cm and slowly move it from one edge of the moss-covered slab to the other;
- The splash guard attached to the mud cutter will protect you from flying splashes of water.
In the Karcher catalog you can choose a dirt cutter with a powerful rotary nozzle for high-pressure washers of any class - from K 2 to K 7, for example DB 160 DIRT BLASTER for sinks K 5 - K 7. Using practical examples, we want to show you how It is necessary to work correctly with a high-pressure apparatus and what should be taken into account when doing so. Special accessories give it the widest functionality. It is convenient for blasting, clearing pipes, clearing decks, or even pumping water out of a pond. Perhaps you will find other areas of application for your device! When performing work, remember that the maximum impact pressure of the jet is achieved at its exit from the nozzle. Therefore, it is better to remove stubborn dirt from a short distance. To remove minor stains and treat sensitive surfaces, increase the distance between the object and the nozzle.
When deciding how to remove moss from paving slabs, consider using a high-pressure washer. This device not only effectively fights vegetation, but can also be an excellent assistant in other work in the garden or summer cottage. Contact our managers and they will advise you.
The tile seams are the weakest point in the tile covering. They are most susceptible to rapid wear, cracking and color fading. The surface finish loses its aesthetics and attractiveness and a complete replacement of the grouting material may be necessary. How to do this work correctly and not damage the tiles is described in the article.
Causes of premature grout wear
During operation ceramic tiles situations often arise when the coating itself has not yet exhausted its service life, and the grouting has lost its aesthetics and does not fulfill its moisture-proofing functions. This problem may be due to several factors:
- Incorrectly selected grout composition. The solution must be selected taking into account the humidity, temperature regime and the purpose of the room.
- Mistakes made when applying grout. The most common is sealing seams with gaps or not to the full depth.
- Making the solution not according to the instructions. The liquid consistency of the grout reduces its strength and durability. At independent batch dry mixture must follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Not proper care behind ceramic tiles. Acid cleaners destroy the grout structure.
- The appearance of mold on the walls of the bathroom and the penetration of microorganisms into the space between the tiles.
- Increased humidity and dampness in the room due to lack of sufficient ventilation.
- Light-colored seams get dirty quickly.
Before deciding that it is time to remove the old grout from the joints, you need to carefully examine it and assess the degree of its destruction.
Assessing the condition of old grout
The first step is to thoroughly clean the seams. If the grout has no cracks and you simply want to update the color, then complete dismantling of the grout can be avoided. Things get worse when deformations, fungus and mold appear between the tiles.
Determine the need complete replacement Grouting can be done according to the following criteria:
- There are gaps in the seams, the grout crumbles and falls off.
- When cleaning seams sandpaper the color of the top layer of grout does not change. This indicates the spread of mold and requires removal of the old grout followed by disinfectant treatment of the joints.
Depending on the tools used and Supplies There are two main methods of grout removal: chemical and mechanical. To protect the tiles from cracking, you need to clean the seams correctly, adhering to the chosen technology.
How to remove grout from tile joints using chemical reagents
The most gentle option for removing grout is the use of chemical reagents. Special solvents “corrode” the hardened filling without damaging the tile itself.
Important! Chemical composition selected according to the type of grout. Work with the reagent must be carried out strictly according to the instructions using personal protective equipment (rubber gloves and a respirator).
You can remove the grout from tile joints using the following solvents: Sopro ZEA 703/ZSE 718, Atlas Szop/Szop 2000, Clean, Keranet and Litoclean.
Most compounds are based on acids, which, if used incorrectly, can damage the surface of the finish. Some solvents may leave white marks on the tiles.
Let us describe the procedure for removing tile grout with a chemical solution:
- Apply the reagent along the seams with a thin brush or a special dispenser.
- Leave the solution for a while (about five hours). The chemicals begin to act and the grout softens.
- Try to pick out the grout construction knife. If it does not come off well, then the reagent must be reapplied. To remove cement grout, the treatment will have to be done twice.
Some substances completely dissolve the grout and after a certain time it is enough to rinse the wall.
Removing grout using mechanical methods
Choosing the right tool
The following tools may be useful for cleaning tile joints:
Removing grout with an electric drill
Before removing epoxy grout from the joints, it is necessary to carry out preparatory measures:
- Prepare a solution by mixing equal parts water and table vinegar. The last component can be replaced with citric acid - this will avoid the appearance of a sharp vinegar smell.
- Moisten a sponge in an acidic solution and generously lubricate all seams. When using vinegar, the impregnation must be left for about 30 minutes, and when using citric acid- 24 hours.
- Place on electric drill thin drill, the width of which does not exceed the thickness of the tile joint.
- Enable tool on minimum power and slowly “walk” between the tiles.
- After completely removing the grout, clean the resulting grooves with a hard brush.
- Rinse the seams and treat them with an antiseptic composition.
How to remove grout between tiles with a knife: step-by-step instructions
If you don’t have a drill at hand, you will have to clean the seams with a knife. For the job, it is important to choose a tool with a comfortable handle, since the process will be lengthy.
Procedure for removing grout:
Traditional methods for removing old grout
For those who support the use of improvised means, folk methods are suitable.
Method 1. Using a concentrated solution of vinegar or citric acid. The prepared reagent is applied to the grout and left for a day. After time, the grout is removed with a spatula or a construction knife. You can replace acidic components with a means to combat lime on plumbing or detergent composition for acid-based cookware.
Method 2. Prepare a solution of one part glycerin and three parts water. Apply the mixture to the seams and leave them for a while. Use a plastic spatula to remove the old grout. A glycerin solution is also useful for solving the question: “How to remove dried grout from tiles?” The cleaning technology is similar to the described procedure - after application, leave for a while and wipe with a cloth.
Method 3. If the grout gets on the tile and dries, you won’t be able to wash it off with water. For this purpose, you can use a solution of water with white spirit or kerosene. With the diluted mixture, just moisten the sponge, squeeze it lightly and wipe the surface of the tile with it.
Restoration of tile joints
Sometimes you want to simply update the interior of your bathroom or kitchen. To avoid lengthy and expensive repairs, it is enough to restore the grout. It is possible to restore the original appearance of the tile joint using a simple technique:
Make sure the grout is not cracked or damaged by mold.
Cleaning tile joints is not a particularly difficult operation, but performing the work will require the performer to be attentive and persevering. To ensure that the tile covering is not damaged and that the new grout lasts for a long time, you must adhere to the described technology and the advice of experts.
In order not to often have to decide how to quickly remove the old grout between the tiles, it is necessary to properly care for the tiles and periodically clean the seams. Thus, it will be possible to extend the original appearance of the cladding and not resort to repair work ahead of time.
How to remove grout from tile joints: video
This video is dedicated to the original and effective way quick cleaning of seams between tiles. In the future, it is planned to fill these seams with grout. I am the author of the channel SAMODEKIN and GADGET+, I’ll tell you what tool I use for this and tell you how to implement all this.
To clean the seams using this method, you will need the following tools. Sprayer with water to wet the seams, screwdriver, cleaning attachment wooden coverings from varnishes and paints. The nozzle is needed not with metal bristles, but with plastic, then it is perfect for this method.
When working with the nozzle, you need to take into account some rules. The seams must be cleaned of mortar, and the nozzle must not damage the tile when it comes into contact with it. And to do this, you must first check how the tile reacts to the nozzle upon accidental or intentional contact with it. IN in this case The tile withstood all possible actions with the nozzle, so the master used it.
This method is suitable not only for construction work with filling joints with grout, but also for everyday cleaning of dirty joints in the bathroom. However, in this case, the brush must be soft enough so as not to destroy the layer of existing grout and other decorative covering. Work should be carried out carefully and carefully, using cleaning agents, and not with an emphasis on mechanical processing.
Source: YouTube
Laying the tiles is completed by grouting the joints, which have an attractive appearance and give the entire surface completeness. But, alas, after some time, dirt begins to accumulate between the joints of the tiles, and with constant exposure to moisture, mold also multiplies. To avoid this problem, you should periodically clean the tile joints; we will discuss how to clean the joints between the tiles below.
Seams between tiles - grouting options
Before moving on to the immediate issue of cleaning the joints between the tiles, you should first study the materials that are used in the grouting process.
All compounds that are used during grouting are divided into two main types:
1. Mixtures with a cement base.
They appear in the form of a powder filler, diluted with water or latex. Inexperienced specialists work with mixtures that contain Portland cement substances. This grout is quite elastic and easy to work with. Plus, it fills even the tightest joints with ease.
To dilute this kind of mixture, a respirator and safety glasses are used. Since there is a risk of the mixture getting into the eyes or causing an allergy.
There are cement-based mixtures in ready-to-use form. This material It’s also convenient to use, but its cost is an order of magnitude higher. Therefore, it is practically not widespread in the construction industry.
When mixing the mixture yourself, it is recommended to strictly follow all instructions specified by the manufacturer. If this is not done, the solution will be too liquid and will spread after drying and form cracks. Using a solution that is too thick risks the fact that the mass is not able to fill all the joint areas, so the tightness between the tiles is broken.
2. Grouts based on use epoxy resin.
This mixture has the highest strength and adhesive properties, in addition, the percentage of its moisture absorption is almost zero. It is used in the process of grouting joints between tiles installed on the surface of a swimming pool, in a bathroom, bathhouses, on the façade areas of a building, in rooms with high performance characteristics.
The use of such grout requires special care and scrupulousness from the person performing the work. Since to remove excess material you will need to apply special efforts, there is a risk of damage to the tile itself.
The grout contains epoxy resin and a special hardener, which fixes it to the surface. It is sold in a different package and mixed with the main composition before starting work. The finished mass is not intended for long-term storage.
Seams between tiles in the bathroom - cleaning with chemicals
Before moving on to considering the means used to clean tiles, a few words should be said about the rules for caring for them. If they are not adhered to, the tile will serve its owners for a short period of time and will lose its appearance.
Despite the fact that ceramic tiles are highly durable and resistant to various types of impacts, there are a number of rules for their operation:
- abrasive cleaners or a metal brush are not suitable for cleaning tiles with a glossy surface; even with minor scratches, the original shine will be lost;
- chemical compounds based on the use of acid can easily damage the seams between the tiles on the floor;
- to improve the strength of the seams, it is recommended to use paint based on epoxy resin, it improves their resistance to a humid environment;
- When cleaning tiles, you should rely solely on specialized means which are intended for cleaning ceramic tiles, the use of other types of products is unacceptable;
- do not use cleaning products that contain pumice, sand, or fat solvents in the form of soap;
- if there is a need to remove various types of contaminants, then for these purposes use a brush with soft bristles, which is not capable of removing the coating on the tile;
- for washing matte tiles use specially designed emulsions; after washing, it is covered with wax mastic, which makes its color more expressive.
To purchase a product that will help you clean the seams between the tiles, just contact any hardware store. There are a huge number of cleaning products designed to clean tiles and the grout between them.
Chemicals are characterized by the following advantages:
- the ability to remove mineral deposits;
- effective fight against unpleasant odor;
- protection from harmful microorganisms, bacteria and germs;
- the use of aromatic additives fills the room with a pleasant smell.
Please note that each type of tile has its own characteristics, which determine the type of cleaning agent used in the process of washing it. Before using this or that composition, you should carefully read the instructions from the manufacturer.
For example, if you use a solution that contains chalk to wash ceramic tiles, stains will appear on the surface, which are very difficult to get rid of.
Do not use chemicals immediately. First try to get rid of dirt with a soft brush and water. If the desired effect cannot be achieved, then resort to more radical methods.
An excellent remedy in this matter is the powdered mixture “Pemolux”. To apply it, you should use the same brush, which is wetted first in water and then in powder. In this case, it is better to wear rubber gloves. After applying the composition, it is recommended to wait about ten minutes, and then clean all seams with a brush.
The use of this method is relevant if the tiles have slight dirt.
How to clean the seams between tiles using folk remedies
- moisten the tile surfaces;
- apply baking soda with a sponge;
- wipe the surface of the tile to remove dirt;
- Do not press too hard on the surface, as there is a risk of damaging the tiles.
Bleach helps make tiles and the joints between them snow-white and shiny:
- dilute the lime with water until a liquid mass is obtained;
- using a spray bottle, apply the solution to the surface;
- After seven minutes, wipe the tiles with a damp cloth.
Tip: Use a mask when performing this cleaning method, as there is a risk of unpleasant odor. Although positive thing Such cleaning is the fact that all mold and pathogenic bacteria are destroyed between the seams.
Using acetic acid will help deal with stubborn stains between tile joints. To clean the grout between tiles, follow the instructions:
- apply vinegar essence using a spray bottle;
- using a brush, spread the vinegar over the surface of the seam;
- after 7 minutes, rinse off the vinegar damp cloth.
Please note that acetic acid is not used in pure form. It is diluted in a ratio of 1.5 tablespoons per 500 ml of water. It is recommended to use this method first before applying bleach, since cleaning with vinegar is more gentle and harmless to both the tile and the skin of the person doing the cleaning.
Another popular method for cleaning the joints between tiles is citric acid. To do this, follow these steps:
- take a sponge and wet it with water;
- lightly wring out the sponge and dip it in citric acid;
- After 3 minutes, rinse the solution from the surface.
The width of the seams between the tiles does not in any way affect the use of one or another processing method. In addition, you should take into account the fact that after using any of the above cleaning methods, you should definitely rinse off the solution and wipe the tiles dry.
Another folk way Cleaning tiles involves a combination of the above methods. To prepare the solution you will need to mix in a metal container:
- 3 glasses of water;
- 0.25 cups of soda;
- 0.15 vinegar essence;
- 0.15 citric acid.
Be sure to wear gloves when working with the cleaner. This substance is quite aggressive, so you need to work with it quickly. Use a toothbrush or sponge to clean.
Apply the compound to all seams and wait ten minutes. By using clean water wash off the composition from the surface. It is preferable to perform the procedure at least twice. With this solution it is easy to get rid of even the most difficult stains.
How to clean the joints between tiles in the bathroom using the mechanical method
To use this cleaning method, you do not need to go to the store for chemicals or prepare mixtures based on folk recipes.
It is enough to have sandpaper at home. It is with its help that the seams are cleaned. Only Special attention should be given to the tile; it is unacceptable to scratch it with paper, as there is a risk of damage appearance coverings. This option differs in speed and ease of execution.
After cleaning all the seams, they are treated with water, and then the tiles are wiped dry.
In addition to sandpaper, use a toothbrush, sponge, and dish scraper. This option is suitable for small types of contamination. In addition, as an addition to this method, it is recommended to apply washing powder to the tiles.
In answer to the question of how to clean the seams between tiles without using chemicals and folk remedies the most the best option will use a sponge based on melamine foam. This material is durable, but at the same time soft. It will easily penetrate into any pores and remove all stains and dirt without the use of chemicals.
To apply a melamine sponge, only water is required, and the less effort is applied to washing, the higher the effectiveness of the process. This sponge helps not only wash the seams between tiles, but also does an excellent job of cleaning plumbing fixtures, sinks, bathtubs, mirrors, etc.
How to clean the seams between tiles on the floor: important recommendations
We invite you to familiarize yourself with practical advice that will help make the cleaning process easier and safer:
- When washing the joints between tiles, be sure to use gloves;
- An excellent product for cleaning the grout between tiles and for washing the tiles themselves is Chemical substance, which is used to wash glass or mirrors;
- the washing process always begins from the bottom, and the procedure for cleaning and wiping the tiles - from the top;
- to whiten the seams between tiles, it is ideal to use hydrogen peroxide, which is applied directly to their surface without further rinsing;
- When polished tiles are cleaned, a special mastic must be applied to its surface, and a vinegar solution is used to improve the shine of glossy tiles.
Removing grout from tile joints
If all of the above methods for cleaning the surface between the seams of tiles did not help, then you should resort to more radical methods. If, some time after cleaning, the grout still darkens, then fungal bacteria have settled on its surface. Their main feature is the presence of characteristic dark spots on the surface of the seams.
To paint these areas, a special opaque felt-tip pen is used. It is with its help that problem areas are hidden.
In addition, there are a number of products designed to renew seams. To purchase them, you should contact a specialized store. If there is a more serious type of contamination that leads to crumbling of the grout during washing, you should resort to opening this material.
Tip: Before starting work, you should remove furniture and other objects from the room, as during the opening process a large amount of dust will be released.
The procedure is carried out with extreme care to avoid damage to the tile itself. After the first pass, all joints are wiped with a damp cloth, and then the procedure is repeated again. If the sanding wheel fails to remove certain areas, you should use sandpaper. Next, the seams are treated with a solvent and primer. New grout is applied to the surface.
In specialized stores there are products that are designed to protect the seams between tiles. The procedure for applying them requires quite a lot of time and effort. Therefore, these funds are used very rarely. After all the seams have dried, they are treated with protective composition. A small brush is used for these purposes. It is not recommended to apply the solution to the tiles, as it destroys its integrity. If the mixture gets in, immediately wipe it off using a rag.
To avoid the need to completely remove the grout, you should ensure proper care of the tiles. Once a month you should wipe the seams with a stiff brush and warm water. Thus, it will be possible to maintain their original appearance for many years.
Goods ordered in the OBI online store are delivered throughout Moscow and the Moscow region within 50 km from the Moscow Ring Road. Delivery costs are automatically calculated when placing an online order, based on the weight of the product and delivery area.
Minimum order amount for free delivery:
We will deliver your order free of charge if the delivery address is located in the first delivery zone for online orders, and also:
- > 5,000.00 RUR- for orders weighing up to 5.0 kg
- > 10,000.00 RUR- for orders weighing up to 30.0 kg
The courier service delivers small-sized orders (weighing up to 30 kg) to the buyer’s door, large-sized ones - to the entrance (wicket, gate) of the house. Delivery includes free unloading of goods from the vehicle and their transfer within 10 m.
Delivery date and time
Next day delivery is available when ordering before 6:00 pm. You will be offered a choice of one of two 7-hour delivery intervals:
- - from 10:00 to 16:00
- - from 15:00 to 22:00
If you want to reduce the waiting period, you can choose one of the 3-hour delivery intervals for an additional fee:
- - from 10:00 to 13:00 +350.00 ₽.
- - from 13:00 to 16:00 +300.00 ₽.
- - from 16:00 to 19:00 +300.00 ₽.
- - from 19:00 to 22:00 +350.00 ₽.
Rescheduling the date and changing the delivery time interval is possible no later than 24 hours before the previously agreed date and time.
You can find out more about the working conditions of the courier service in the section
Grout is a finishing material that is used to fill gaps between tiles. And when you have to change the tiles, the question arises - how to remove the grout from the joints.
Options for removing grout from joints - choosing the best
You don't have to clean the grout as often, but you still have to. Therefore, it is better for you to find out at the stage of laying tiles how this work is carried out.
Many experts note the following methods for removing grout between tiles, which include:
- Removing material using a sharp knife with thin blade– a suitable tool for cutting paper;
- If you need to remove grout from the tile itself, it is best to use a solution of citric acid or detergent;
- You can purchase a grouting mixture that is used to remove material - it is easy to find in any hardware store;
- If the material has been applied recently, it can be wiped with plain water, adding a few drops of liquid soap;
- Many experts advise removing old grout or (if it gets on the material) using the thinnest drill.
How to remove grout from joints using a drill?
If you choose a drill as a tool for cleaning tiles from grout, you first need to prepare the surface of the material. We thoroughly moisten the tiles, for which we need the following solution: take table vinegar and water in a ratio of 1:2. After preparation, apply the solution using a soft cloth and leave on the surface for 20 minutes.
While the solution is moistened, we prepare the tool: it is best to take the thinnest glass or glass - it should not exceed the diameter of the seam. Under no circumstances use large drills, as in this case there is a high risk of damaging the tile itself. Otherwise, you will have to do it again. After preparation, he begins to clean the material itself, which has served its purpose.
What if mechanical methods no longer help?
Do you know how to remove grout from joints using mechanical methods. But what to do if the solution gets on the tile itself? In fact, remove the grout directly from the surface finishing material not so simple. A day after applying the solution, remove the remaining material with a sponge soaked in water.
If the grout is more than a few months old, then plain water It won’t help with soap - use any dishwashing detergent, as long as it contains a small amount of acid. This information may be on the packaging of the product. In addition, products that cope with limescale– the grout will not withstand their influence and will be washed off.
