Remove Grout

What is the best way to remove this remaining grout stuck between the bottom of the tile wall and the bathtub without damaging anything? An exacto knife removed the easy sections but this stuff is stuck. This was built 8 years ago and is for a rental unit. Initially I thought it was caulk and began to razor blade it out but realize it is actually grout with a thin layer of clear silicone caulk over it. Want to do this right. Clean it up and use silicone only or use grout or a combination????????????? After removing sections that looked mildew deteriorated I realize with the exception of a few minor sections it was actually in good condition. Thanks in advance.

 

I use an oscillating saw with a grout blade. Makes removing grout a piece of cake.
There's a video shown in the link below using one on tile.

Oscillating saws

 

There are also hand grout removal tools. Less expensive and OK for small areas but if doing an entire shower I'd definetely spend the money to buy a power tool.

 

Any time there is a plane change, like a corner or floor , or something that will move due to weight or temp, like the tub caulk is better choice.

SO NOT USE SILICONE, there are new siliconized latex caulks with microban that are superior for these applications!

 

For plane changes, thats what I thought do no use grout. Not sure why the installer did years ago. Is there a min size for using caulk though? The gap seems wide-- wider than your normal grout like as you can see from the photo? Should I still use caulk only or do you think doing both i.e. grout than caulk on top is a viable solution given the large gap??????????

 

Caulk only. No grout in that location.

 

Because most trades are cheap and trying to get done as quick as possible with least effort.

Caulking means they have to come back an extra day after grout is dry!