Grout - HELP!

[MilDoc]

My shower tiles need to be regrouted in places. I've never worked with grout and my 2 books on home repairs give it lip service. So, some "all-thumbs (and I still have both!) questions:
1. Best way to remove old grout without damaging tile?
2. Best (read "simplest") product (brand names appreciated) for new grout?
3. Application tips from those that really know? Tools? Techniques?

And, any "easy" cleanup tips would be greatly appreciated!!!

P.S. I don't know if the tiles are ceramic, plastic, or Kryptonite!

[ironace]

i have used this to remove grout: http://www.asktooltalk.com/home/gene...utgrabber.html

i did not do the regrouting so I can't help you there

[gjat]

I've used a similar hand tool to remove grout that wasn't very old. It worked fantastic. I am going to re-grout my shower and am going to look to see if I can grind my hand tool to mount on my recip saw and give it a shot. They sell hand tool ones at home depot.

[Salty]

Finally someone asks about something I know about....although mind you I an no professional.
I redid the tub/shower just this past Monday and did the touch-up last night.
For removing the grout I used a grout saw that I picked up from the local D.I.B. hardware. SKU # 260762
When I did the shower stall about 2 months ago I tried using an attachment on the Dremel tool but because the joints were not perfectly aligned it damaged the corners of some tiles. It was difficult to control and made a lot of dust. When the bit broke I decided to try the grout saw. It is a lot of work but it was well worth the effort. I also bought an extra pack of the blades since the one that came with the tool seemed to wear out quickly. Also, try to keep the blade flat and work on long sections with long strokes. This will be less tiring on your arms. The replacement blades are # 11117 and seemed to fit between the tiles well. I did not saw out all of the grout, only far enough that the new grout would cover the joint. Be sure you have a good filter in your shop vac because this dust will kill the motor if it gets through the filter.

Buy a sponge made specifically for grouting and a rubber grout trowel, rectangle. It doesn't have to be the most expensive one either.

Dinner time so bye for now. I'll keep watching this thread for more questions.