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How to Repair Tile Grout

Holly Honeycutt

By Holly Honeycutt
Updated March 3, 2025

Repairing tile grout is an easy, inexpensive do-it-yourself project that can give your kitchen or bathroom tile a fresh, new look. Learn how to fix cracking grout with help from Lowe’s.

Tools and Materials

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

Match Your Grout Color

Fixing grout and re-grouting tile isn’t complicated, but you need to match the color of your grout first. Get sample chips from Lowe’s and find the closest color match. If the original grout color is lighter than the color you chose from the chips, lighten the new grout by adding more water when you mix it. If the original grout color is darker, use less water. You can also consider pre-mixed grout that is ready to use. Like grout mix, the color will fade if the application sponge is too wet.

Caution

Always wear eye protection when removing old grout.

Grout Types

A single package of unsanded grout.

Grout is available as sanded or unsanded. Choose the correct type of grout based on the width of your tile joints and the location of the grout repair.

  • Measure the space between the tile. If the space is wider than 1/8 inch, use sanded grout. If the width is 1/8 inch or less, use unsanded grout.
  • Never use sanded grout with metal, glass or marble tile. The sand will scratch the surface. Instead, use unsanded grout.

Acrylic latex grout is comparatively easy to work with but requires sealing. Epoxy grout is highly resistant to stains and doesn’t require sealing, but it’s more difficult to apply. Read How to Grout Tile and Use Mortar to learn more on fixing tile grout.

Repair Tile Grout

Follow these steps to learn how to apply tile grout after properly preparing the surface. Grout repair in the shower and other areas will go smoothly if you know what you’re doing.

How to Repair Grout