Does anyone know of or have experience with a mechanical/powered way of removing grout (appart from a diamond blade in grinder)? I have a large area approx 90m2 that needs to be regrouted. The grout is quite soft (hence the need for a regrout), but the tiles are a polished porcelain and the joints do vary in size a bit, (from 1.5mm to say 4mm). I need to use something that will not damage/chip the porcelain and be as dust free as possible. (The area is an internal foyer). Any suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks.

Hi Tilermatt,

Thats a big area to scrape out!! I once had a problem in the UK when the grout i used got contaminated and was discoloured. I bought a product from filachim called grout residue remover(extra strong) and when i put it into the grout it foamed up and completely softened the grout to scrape out. I am not sure where you could buy it here but it may help.

Good luck!

Hiya matt...

I have a fein machine and it has a grout removal blade and will be fine for soft grout removal...

YouTube - Fein Multimaster Segmented Carbide Grout Blade & Rasp

Hi Dave,
Checked out tohe Fein Multimaster. Looks good. Also found Bosch has a version of the same tool, both corded and cordless.
PMF 180E
http://www.bosch-do-it.com.au/boptocs2-au/Product.jsp?country=AU〈=en&division=hw&ccat_id=952 26&object_id=14153
Cordless multicutter.
http://www.bosch-pt.com.au/boptocs2-au/Category.jsp;jsessionid=B31B15288942EF9A2F65235B60 781AB7.worker1?country=AU〈=en&division=gw&ccat_id= 125964

Any opinions on the Bosch range?
Thanks

I have both matt...the bosh pmf180 is a diy tool where as the fein is a pro tool...but bosch have jst brought out the cordless pro version..but the thing is cordless is the life span of batteries when doing large area's, where as a corded you can go on as long as you like..

I have also found another tool to look at..The grout grabber..

YouTube - Grout Grabber Grout Removal Tool

Thanks again Dave. I was wondering about the cordless option battery life. But I figure if you have a second battery on charge with only 30 mins to fully charge you could keep going as long as you want.

I also so that DTA have a saw for use with the "Grout Grabber".

Just noticed that Trade Tools Direct hree in Brisbane have a special on a cordless multi tool this week. I'm going to check it out for specs this week.

Ok..let us know how you get on....and yes spare batteries would be a help with the cordless ones..

Bought the cordless multi-tool from Trade Tools Direct and so far have been happy with it. TradeTools Direct - Serious Tools...Seriously Discounted!

I use the Bosch in here in the UK, as you may know they work by vibration (as opposed to a sawing/cutting action), a useful tool to have with you, i use mine mainly for undercutting door architraves or kitchen unit mouldings, etc.
The new Fein is far superior though with quick release blades, etc, check it out online

They work by Oscillation.. sometimes referred to as vibration..