How To Fix Pinholes In Grout [2 Simple Ways]

You have finally finished grouting your tiles. One more day and it settles down pretty nicely until it doesn’t. There are pinholes on the grouts all over. 

How to fix pinholes on the grout?

First, dampen the pinholes with water. Use your finger to press some new grout mixture into them afterward. Another option is regrouting the whole thing. To do so, dig out the grouts that have pinholes and clean the area. Apply a new coat of grout mixture and finally seal the grout. 

This is only the preview. We’ve provided you with a complete step-by-step guideline to fix the pinholes in the grout.

Without further adieu, let’s begin!

What Causes Pinholes In Grout

Pinholes are mainly caused by the imbalance of water in the grout mixture. It happens when too much water is added to the grout mix. The extra water in the grout evaporates as it dries. This leaves the grout with small pinholes everywhere.

Contamination in grout mix can also be the cause. For example, dirt in the grout mix can end up resulting in pinholes. The applicant’s skill in grouting is another factor to look upon.

What Happens If You Leave Pinholes Unattended

Leaving pinholes on grout unattended might cause bigger problems for later. Moistures are not safe for your grout at all. If water goes through pinholes, it might cause mold problems in your house and getting rid of molds is not easy. 

Fixing it will cause you a hefty amount of sum. You wouldn’t want to go through this extra hassle and money loss. That’s why you have to get rid of the pinholes as soon as possible.

How To Deal With Pinholes In Grout

There are two solutions you can count on. Depending on the grout condition here’s what you can do- 

Solution 1: Reapplying Grout In Pinholes

This is a quick solution for your grout issue. If you’re in a hurry,  this method might come in handy.

Step 1: Preparations

Dampen all the pinholes with water. Wait for 5 minutes for the water to saturate the holes. Meanwhile, you can make the new grout mixture- 

Add three parts of grout with one part of water. Add each part of grout one at a time. Stir the mixture well. 

Step 2: Apply Grout

Apply the grout mixture to the pinholes. Use your finger to press the grout into the holes. Wipe off the excess part with a sponge. Let the applied grout sit for about a day before it comes to contact with water.

As we mentioned above, this process is an emergency solution. The effectiveness of this method is not always satisfactory. You might discover the pinholes again after some time. This is why we recommend the second solution. 

Solution 2: Repair The Grout

Some might say that you don’t have to redo the grout. But experts suggest a different solution. Patching up the grout with more grout is only a temporary solution. 

In the long run, this might cause problems like mold issues. Simply patching up the grout might leave some pinholes behind. This is why you should redo the whole thing.

Here’s what you’re gonna need for the task:

• Grout
• Scrub brush
• A sharp object
• Denatured alcohol
• Grout float
• Grout sponge

Now, don’t worry. This isn’t as hard as caulking between tiles. Just follow our steps and see the result-

Step 1: Remove The Old Grout

Examine the grout lines that have to be repaired. Use a sharp object to dig out the old grouts. Be careful not to scratch the tiles while doing this. 

Step 2: Clean The Area

Use a brush to clean the grout line with denatured alcohol. If you don’t have alcohol, use 1 to 1 vinegar and water solution. 

Scrub the area with a brush afterward. Make sure no dirt is present. Now, just dry the area properly.

Step 3: Make The Grout Mixture

Mix the grout according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Add a little amount of water at a time. The mixture’s consistency should be like peanut butter. This is why be careful not to add too much water. Otherwise, you will have to dispose of the extra grout water later.

Step 4: Apply The Mixture

Take a scoop of grout onto the grout float. Press the float over the grout line at a 45-degree angle now. Move the float to several angles afterward. This will ensure that the grout is getting good coverage. Lastly, remove the excess grout from the tiles with the float.

Step 5: Let The Grout Set

After applying the grout mixture, let it sit for 10 minutes. Then take a damp grout sponge to clean the tiles. Make sure no grout remains on the tiles.

Once done, keep the grout undisturbed for 24 hours so it cures perfectly.

Step 6: Seal The Grout

Sealing the grout is important. It keeps the grout safe from moisture. It’ll also save you the hassle of grout going bad. Use silicone sealer over your grouts for the job. Because it makes the grout surface waterproof.

That’s it! Your grout is safe now. Hopefully, you’ve gotten rid of the pinholes in the grout.

FAQs

Question: Can I use sealant on pinholes instead of grout?

Answer: No, applying the sealant to fix the pinholes is a bad idea. First, it has to be regrouted. Sealing the grout comes later.

Question: Is ready mixed grout a bad choice to fix the pinholes?

Answer: Yes, ready mixed grouts are not of good quality. Professionals don’t use it. It’s better to make your own grout mixture.

Question: What to do with sealed pinholes?

Answer: dig out the grouts from the area that have pinholes. Patch up the area with new grout and then seal it.

EndNote

Hopefully, now you’ve got a clear idea about how to fix pinholes in grout. If the process seems hard to perform, you can always get professional help.

But do give it a try. The result might amaze you.

That’s it for today. See you around for solving another household issue!