Sprucing up this front entrance has been on my DIY to-do list for ages. I wanted to refresh the tiles while keeping them intact, so decided to apply a similar three-step process to the one I use for reviving timber: clean, coat and seal.

BEFORE The tiles were still in good condition, but the grout had weathered and chipped. The spacing between them allows for a new layer of grout 3-4mm thick. Choosing a pale colour will make the area look cleaner and brighter.

“This three-part project takes just a couple of hours to DIY, but plan it over a long weekend to allow for thorough drying times.”

— Natasha

PART 1: CLEAN

I scrubbed off old paint spills with a scourer and Bondall Waterbased Paint & Varnish Stripper…

… then spritzed all over with Betta Tilecare Tile & Grout Cleaner, leaving it to work it’s magic for a couple of minutes.

While the cleaner was still wet, I rinsed it away using Fern Water Jet Power Washer that simply clips onto the hose, providing enough pressure to clean without damaging the surface.

PART 2: COAT

I used a pre-mixed grout solution, applying it with a small rubber trowel by pressing it into the gaps between the tiles in a diagonal motion, removing the excess as I went along.

Working in sections meant I could leave each for about 15 minutes before wiping the tiles clean, being careful not to press on any still-damp grout. When the re-grouting was done, I used a clean sponge to remove the haze that appears on the tiles as it dries.

PART 3: SEAL

To seal the tiles and protect the grout from discolouring I used a mini roller to apply Betta Tilecare Tile & Grout Sealer, working in sections to apply one coat, applying the second while the area was still wet.