Removing old grout best done with special tools

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 03/10/2015 (3627 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

QUESTION: The grout on the floor of my home entrance looks terrible. It is crumbling and impossible to clean. Is it possible to grout over of the existing grout or should I remove the tile and start over? Ken, Winnipeg

ANSWER: Although it is not necessary to remove each tile in order to repair grout, you cannot re-grout over existing grout (unless the grout is new and has not set). The damaged grout must be removed by using a small electric grinder. Keep in mind the remaining grout may crumble as the damaged grout is being removed. If you do not own a carbide tipped scraper tool (specifically designed for grout removal) you can use a fine tipped screwdriver and hammer to remove the grout. Note: Whichever method you choose, be careful not to scratch floor tiles in the process.

QUESTION: I was at a party and a few of my friends asked to see the engagement ring my fiancé purchased at a flea market. When I showed everyone my ring I was so embarrassed because instead of complimenting me on my beautiful ring, they started laughing because my finger had turned green around the metal. Any way to fix that? Kendra, Portage la Prairie

ANSWER: Congratulations on your engagement! Several metals that oxidize with your skin will leave you with a green hue; this can happen with more expensive and less expensive pieces, but is a common occurrence when copper is worn. An easy fix for your ring is to coat the inside with clear nail polish; reapply the polish as needed.

QUESTION: I just moved into a brand- new house and am looking to purchase a new coffee table. What is a good height for a coffee table? Sincerely, Anthony, St. Pierre-Jolys.

ANSWER: While modern coffee tables may be as high as 25 inches and as low as 11 inches, the standard height for a coffee table is 16 inches.

Manitoba shares

— I used to have a problem with fruit flies breeding in my fish tank aquarium. I tried everything to get rid of them but nothing worked. I finally discovered the cure; keep the water level in the tank as high as possible. Doing this allows no space between the lid and the water for flies to hatch. Submitted by Rekha

— I have an old, disgusting toilet that had brown stains around the bowl. I tried every product I saw advertised on T.V. but nothing worked. Right before purchasing a brand-new toilet, I tried Bar Keepers Friend along with a green scrubby pad and the stains vanished. Just wanted to share. Submitted by Louise

— After every use I clean my BBQ well. Right before cooking, I heat up the grill and slice a large white onion in half and stick it on my long barbecue fork. I then rub the onion onto the grill. Any remaining dirt on the grill vanishes, the grate becomes seasoned and the onion enhances the flavor of the meat while barbecuing. Submitted by Bill

— I am fanatical about organization in my home. I discovered an easy way to organize my purses is to purchase shower curtain hooks. I hung the hooks on the rod in my closet and now my purses don’t become tangled. Submitted by Elaine

— I use nail polish to paint the tops of each of my keys a different color. Doing this saves me time searching for the right key. Submitted by Frieda

NOTE: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.

I enjoy your questions and tips, keep them coming. Need a presenter on the topic: Effective Speaking or The Power of Words? Check out: Reena.ca