How To Remove Paint From Tile and Grout

When renovating your home or office, paint can stain your tiles and grout no matter how many precautions you take.

Getting paint off tiles and grout can be challenging. Grout and unglazed tiles are porous and quickly soak up oil-based and latex paint. And while paint may sit on the surface of glazed tiles, many highly abrasive removal methods, such as using a paint scraper, can ruin the tiles’ finish.

Knowing different ways to remove paint from tile and grout, including professional and DIY methods, ensures you can easily clean your tiles for a new, fresh look.

Professional Tile & Grout Paint Removal

If you need a fast and effective way to remove paint from grout and tile or have old paint stains, consider hiring a professional to make the process seamless and effective. Some common professional methods for removing paint from grout and tile include:

• Chemical paint strippers: Chemical paint strippers are a popular option for removing paint from tile and grout. These products are specially formulated to dissolve paint and make it easier to scrape or wipe away. However, using them carefully is important as they can be harsh and emit strong fumes. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a mask. You should also test the paint stripper on a small section of tile first; some formulas may remove the glaze from your tiles.
• Industrial grout cleaner: An industrial strength grout cleaner containing a solvent is an excellent alternative to harsh paint strippers without intense fumes. These solvents are designed to penetrate the grout and dissolve paint so it can be easily wiped away.
• Abrasive blasting: Abrasive blasting uses a machine to shoot a high-pressure stream of abrasive material (such as sand or glass beads) at the painted tile and grout. This method is effective for removing paint and other debris, but it can also be expensive and cause damage to the surface if not done properly. Professional expertise is usually required for this method.
• Steam cleaning: Steam cleaning involves using hot water and steam to soften and loosen the paint, making it easier to wipe away. This method is effective for removing paint from tile and grout without causing damage, but it may not work on older or more stubborn paint stains.

Consider hiring a professional for tile and grout cleaning as we use industrial-grade solutions and tools to remove dried paint and stains.

Professionals will pre-treat the affected areas, use a mildly abrasive rotary tool to loosen the paint, and then use an extractor to remove residue. We also apply a post-treatment solution that protects your tiles and grout against future damage.

DIY Paint Removal Ideas

You can use several DIY tile and grout cleaning methods to remove paint from a tile floor at home. The following DIY cleaning approaches let you remove paint from tile and grout using items you already have on hand, such as water, soap, vinegar, and baking soda.

• Hot water and soap: Use hot water and dish soap to soften the paint, and then scrub the area with a scrub brush.
• Vinegar: Soak a cloth in vinegar and lay it over the paint for a few hours for a non-toxic grout paint remover. The compounds in vinegar soften the paint, making it easier to remove.
• Baking soda: Combine baking soda and water to make a thick paste, then apply it to the paint and let it sit for a few hours. Scrub the area with a brush to remove the paint.
• Rubbing alcohol: Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol and lay it over the paint. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub the area with a brush.
• Paint stripper: Use a paint stripper specifically designed for use on tile and grout. Follow the instructions carefully, wear gloves and protective eyewear, and keep your bathroom ventilated by opening a window or turning on the fan.
• Sandpaper: Use sandpaper to gently sand away the paint. Try fine-grade sandpaper and light pressure to avoid scratching your tile or grout.
• Razor blade: Use a razor blade to scrape away the paint from a tile surface carefully. Do not gouge or dig into the grout and take care not to scratch the tile.

DIY methods work well for smaller areas or getting paint off tiles that are not heavily stained, damaged, or discolored. Although it’s less expensive than professional tile and grout cleaning, we find heavy  paint stains to be a challenge cleaning it yourself. Once you start, you’ll quickly realize opting for a professional is quick, easy and more effective long term (i.e. tile and grout protectant).

Whether you just painted your house or hired a construction company for a remodel, Pure Vortex works within one day to remove all paint and stains. If you have any questions about our services or DIY tips, feel free to call us for a solution.