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How to clean mortar from between ceramic tiles?

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  • Sep 10th, 2016 10:00 am
[OP]
Deal Addict
May 9, 2004
1532 posts
1279 upvotes
Upstairs

How to clean mortar from between ceramic tiles?

What is the easiest way to clean mortar from between new ceramic tiles before grouting? Mortar has hardened. It's about 800 sq ft so I would rather use a power tool and not a manual blade. Are there specific tools for this? Are there attachments for a power drill maybe...since I already have a drill...
6 replies
Sr. Member
Jan 15, 2010
559 posts
188 upvotes
Toronto
I was looking at this as well as a project for my kitchen floors. Take a look at this video. Pretty good instructional video.

I have an oscillating tool but it looks like the reciprocating saw may be the way to go.
Deal Guru
User avatar
Mar 23, 2008
13006 posts
9978 upvotes
Edmonton
There's a "grout removal attachment" for a dremal. Never had to try it, and it doesn't look like it's really necessary if you have a steady hand and the right bit.

I'd be concerned that a drill may not be built for long continuous operation, and may not have the RPM's required.

C
Deal Addict
Oct 20, 2011
1160 posts
437 upvotes
Mississauga
The dremel with grout tool attachment, is more forgiving and easier to use than the sawzall with grout attachment. It would probably take between 30-60 seconds for all for sides of the tile depending on size of tile and how much thinset had to be removed. It also depends on whether it's modified or unmodified thinset and how long it's been allowed to dry.
Deal Expert
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Dec 26, 2005
17034 posts
1822 upvotes
Thornhill
I use the manual grout saw, but 800 sq-ft is a big area. I've removed 50 sq-ft one time when I found out the grout pigment wasn't mixed together properly.

I've never tried the oscillating tool (although I do have the grout attachment) for fear that I might chip the adjacent tile.

https://www.homedepot.ca/en/home/p.prof ... 07784.html

bjl
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Deal Addict
Feb 12, 2010
4569 posts
1981 upvotes
GVRD
Well, everyone gives advice about removing the grout. The problem OP has is there is mortar sticking out between tiles, but it's the install mortar that should've been cleaned up when it was still wet. The mortar is much stronger than grout. OP can try all the above mentioned tips, but not sure if that will work well. He needs to be super careful, otherwise plenty of chipping and ruined new tile. Maybe OP was hoping for some sort of chemical that will soften the mortar so it can just be wiped off :)
Deal Expert
User avatar
Dec 26, 2005
17034 posts
1822 upvotes
Thornhill
The mortar is softer than grout. I use the grout saw for cleaning up mortar as well.

Btw, went to Home Depot this morning and they have a grout saw blad for reciprocating saws - now talk about chip problems!!!

bjl
What we do in life echoes in Eternity... and in Google cache.
RFD discounts for Schluter products

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