What Can I Use to Remove Grout and Thinset From Bricks?

Hand-Held Tool

• A hand-held grout removal tool is one of the old-fashioned methods of removing grout from joints between tiles, blocks and bricks. It has a handle similar to a screwdriver, but the head of the tool is a triangular-shaped end that you can use to scrape grout of the joints. While tedious, this is one of the cleanest methods of removing grout as it keeps dust to a minimum.

Angle Grinder

• The dirtiest method for removing grout from joints, an angle grinder is also the fastest way for you to clean the old grout for a new installation. While quick, it comes with its own set of complications as you will need to cover all furniture with cloths and plastic sheeting, as well as use as much ventilation as possible due to the amount of cement particles it throws up into the air.

Oscillating Tool

• One of the latest additions to the grout removal arsenal is an oscillating tool. It operates by utilizing an oscillating blade inserted into the grout joint; the resulting vibrations shake the grout back into dust format. It is fairly clean in comparison to the angle grinder and is far quicker than a hand-held grout tool. However, oscillating tools are not cheap, and unlike angle grinders that can be used for a variety of projects, oscillating tools have a limited range of uses.

Hammer and Chisel

• More common for removing single tiles, a hammer and chisel are the oldest method for removing grout from joints. The chisel is inserted against the top of the grout joint then struck with the hammer on the top end of the chisel with force, thus breaking up the joint beneath the pressure point. While this method is relatively dust-free, it is also the most tedious way of removing grout.