How to Paint Over Dingy Grout – DIY Gray Grout

If I ever took the time to devise an inventory of worst home decor ideas ever, I think white floor grout would be close to the top of that list (along with wallpaper and popcorn ceilings). While I love the look of dark gray tiles with contrasting white grout, I know it is a mistake waiting to happen between my dogs, kids and loathing of mops.

When I completed the initial walk- through of my fixer upper before purchasing it, I noticed the grout was pretty dingy but I brushed it off believing it just needed a good mopping. Well, I was sadly mistaken. The once white grout between my white tiles had become indelibly yellow. Of course if money was no object, I would have completely removed the grouted tiles and installed hardwood flooring….but my bank account gave a resounding “No!” What a b*#ch.

This is what the once white grout looked like when we moved into our fixer upper…..

Before:

That is when I began researching how to “re-grout” tiles and I somehow came across an ever cheaper and easier solution….painting over dirty grout with a paint specifically designed for grout.

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The product is called “Polyblend Grout Renew” and comes in several different colors. Vowing to never voluntarily have white grout on my floors ever again, I went with a medium to dark color gray called “Delorean Gray”. For your convenience I have provided an  affilate link so that you can purchase the product. Polyblend 165 8 oz. Delorean Gray Grout Renew Colorant

First, you need to thoroughly clean and mop your floors. While the directions suggested cleaning the floors multiple times, I vacuumed then mopped once and began painting. Not saying to half-ass it like I did, but my grout paint has held up just fine (and I have almost made it to 2 years).

Using a small paint brush, I poured the GroutRenew on a paper plate and began applying the product on the grout. Some people recommend applying with a toothbrush, but I liked the precision and greater control the paint brush allowed.  I am sure you guys are thinking I went horribly over the lines, but I had no choice. Whoever grouted the tile originally, got grout all over the tiles so the lines look horrible. And no, my tiles are not covered in dirty gunk….that is grout caked onto to the crevices of the actual tile itself. You better believe I will demo this floor as soon as I have the money!!!

It took only about 2 – 3 hours to complete my entire kitchen and I was able to do it with, at the time, a one year old toddling around. Just be sure to keep a wet rag handy so that you can immediately wipe off any mistakes (I had to do this a few times myself). Also be sure to let the paint dry before walking on the grout (I tip-toed on the tiles until I knew the GroutRenew was dry).

And here is how it has held up for almost 2 years now…..

I am extremely pleased with the product and the application itself was super easy.

And for those of you who arent familiar with my blog, here is a before and after shot of our kitchen.

Hopefully some of you will find this of use. Its probably the best $30 I have ever spent.

Now get out there and design some good vibes and be sure to spread the love and pin my post!

Welcome!

My journey in interior design and home improvement began with transforming my first fixer-upper home, all while managing a budget and raising two young boys. My work, a reflection of my passion for creating beautiful, uplifting spaces, has been recognized by top publications like Better Homes and Gardens Magazine, HGTV, and more. I invite you to explore my site and witness the transformation of my home and the vibes we've designed.Read more...