Removing ceramic tile grout is a difficult and tedious job, but it's something that needs to be done if you want your kitchen or bathroom tiles to look their best. Fortunately, there are ways to speed the process up, the easiest of which is with an oscillating multi-tool with grout removal blades.

Removing grout from between tiles with an oscillating tool is much like using a reciprocating saw to get the job done. Both use grout removal blades to cut and grind away grout, and both yield similar results. The biggest difference between these methods is that an oscillating tool is easier to control since it's smaller and uses a shorter blade stroke. The cutting head on an oscillating tool can also be rotated, making it more versatile.

To remove grout using your oscillating multi-tool, just follow these steps.

Gather the Right Tools

You should have at least two diamond blades for your oscillating tool as well as a scraper blade. The blades themselves should be either 1/16 or 1/8 of an inch wide depending on the width of the grout. You should also have a utility knife or razor blade and a pair of leather gloves.

Remove the Old Caulk

Your first step after gathering your supplies should be to remove old caulk along the tile corners with the oscillating tool and a scraper blade. Your blades should slice right through most of the caulk, while a simple razor blade will be able to scrape away any remaining traces of the substance.

Start On the Grout

Once you've removed any old caulk that may be on the tiles, it's time to start removing the grout itself. Turn on the oscillating tool, center the blade in the center of the grout line, lower it into the grout and push forward slowly. A small oscillating multi-tool should be easy to control, but a slower hand will be able to do a much more thorough job.

Last-Minute Tips

Since you will be grinding away solid bits of grout, you will need to wear the proper protective gear. You should have leather work gloves for a job like this, but you should also wear goggles to protect your eyes from debris. Finally, be careful not to crack the tiles themselves. As useful as an oscillating tool is for this task, it will still be very easy to damage your tiles. Go slow, and be prepared to devote plenty of time to this task.

The first step to any project is making sure you have the right tools for the job. Whether you’re a professional or just a handyman around the home, find the perfect blade for the job by shopping Fitz All Blades. With over a dozen of blade types available to fit almost any brand of oscillating tool, you can be sure you will find just the tool you need within the extensive selection at Fitz All Blades. Don’t go into your next project empty handed, find the best oscillating multi-tool blade for the job by shopping at Fitz All Blades today!