Broken, Cracked Grout? How to Easily Repair Your Kitchen Sink

Grout serves an important function in tiled kitchens, helping to prevent water damage and providing an attractive, finished look. But over time, the grout around a kitchen sink is subjected to lots of moisture and stains, and can begin to crack, chip or discolor. Thankfully, regrouting a kitchen backsplash or sink area is a straightforward DIY project for homeowners, with the right preparation and materials.

With simple tools like a grout saw and putty knife, you can scrape out damaged grout and reseal the gaps between tiles for a like-new appearance.

Assessing Grout Damage Around the Kitchen Sink

Before launching into a grout repair project, it's important to assess the current state of the grout so you know what needs to be addressed. Here are some common issues to check for:

• Cracked grout - Check for any cracks wider than a hairline, which indicate the grout has dried out and needs replacing.
• Missing grout - Make note of any areas where grout is missing completely and needs to be patched.
• Stained/discolored grout - Determine if stains can be cleaned or if the affected grout requires regrouting.
• Mold/mildew - Note any mold or mildew growth in the grout, which must be cleaned and regrouted for a healthy kitchen.

Thoroughly inspect around the entire sink basin and backsplash. Grout repair will be easiest if you address all problem areas at once before the damage worsens.

When to Regrout vs. Spot Repair

For minor issues like a few hairline cracks or small missing sections, you may be able to get by with grout spot repairs. But extensive cracking, heavy stains, or mold growth will require regrouting the entire area for best results.

Gathering Supplies for Kitchen Sink Grout Repair

With the right tools and materials on hand, your kitchen grout repair project will go much more smoothly. Here are the key items to gather ahead of time:

Tools for Grout Repair

• Grout saw or rotary tool - To remove old grout
• Grout float or rubber trowel - For applying new grout
• Putty knife - For scraping and cleaning tiles
• Sponges and buckets - For washing tiles before regrouting

Materials

• Matching sanded or unsanded grout - For most kitchens, unsanded grout is best for narrow grout lines under 1/8".
• Grout sealer (optional) - Sealing grout helps protect it from future stains.
• Grout coloring (optional) - Colorant adds color for a seamless match to old grout.
• Rags, gloves, safety glasses - For personal protection while regrouting.

With your supplies gathered, you'll be equipped to tackle the grout repair process.

Step-by-Step Kitchen Grout Repair

From start to finish, here is an overview of the kitchen grout repair process:

1. Removing Old Grout

First, use a grout saw or sharp putty knife to scrape out all cracked, stained, or compromised grout around the sink. Take care not to scratch the tile surfaces. You want to clean out grout until you reach hard, bonded grout on all sides.

2. Cleaning and Prepping the Area

With the damaged grout removed, use soapy water and a scrub brush or toothbrush to clean the exposed tile and get rid of any remaining grease, dirt or soap scum on the tiles. Allow the area to fully dry before regrouting.

You can cover surfaces like the countertop with rosin paper to protect them from dripping grout and make clean-up easier.

3. Mixing and Applying New Grout

Prepare new grout per package instructions, getting a smooth, lump-free consistency. Using a grout float held at a 45° angle, firmly press the grout down into the gaps between the tiles, packing it deeply into the grout lines. Let the grout sit untouched for 10-15 minutes so it can start to set up.

4. Finishing the Repaired Grout

After allowing the new grout to firm up, use a damp sponge to gently wipe any excess grout haze off the tile surfaces. Take care not to smear the grout lines. Allow the grout to cure 24-48 hours before sealing or using the sink.

If needed, apply caulk to seal any remaining gaps at inside corners or edges.

To keep your grout looking fresh after repairing it, here are some maintenance tips:

• Seal grout once a year to protect from stains.
• Use a gentle grout cleaner and soft brush to keep grout clean.
• Address any new hairline cracks right away before they widen.

With proper care, your kitchen grout can stay in great shape for years. Follow this tutorial for fixing grout cracks and stains as needed for a like-new appearance.