How to remove epoxy grout from tile safely and easily

How to remove dried epoxy grout from tile without scratching or ruining your tile? Yes, it can be done with the right knowledge. Get the details here.

• An overview of how to remove epoxy grout from tile
• How to remove epoxy grout from tile: Step by step
• After cleaning epoxy grout off tile: Necessary repairs

An overview of how to remove epoxy grout from tile

Epoxy grouts are typically quite durable and impervious to cleaners, which is what you want if they are to be effective. But, when you get grout on the tiles, or even grout haze, it can be tricky to remove. Read on to find out how to clean epoxy grout off tiles.

Have these supplies on hand:

• Painter’s stir stick 
  
• Vacuum
• Nylon scrubber
• Water
• Painter's tape
• Plastic sheeting
• Safety glasses
• Rubber gloves
• Epoxy stripper
• Paintbrush
• Stiff-bristled brush
• Trisodium phosphate
• Bucket
• Hot water
• Sponge
• Paper towel

How to remove epoxy grout from tile: Step by step

Carefully follow these steps:

1. Scrape off any excess grout with a squared-off wooden stick like a paint stirrer.
   
2. Use a little elbow grease along with a nylon scrubber and soapy water. 
3. If that hasn't removed it, then you need to bring in an epoxy stripper. Protect any areas where you don't want the stripper to do damage with plastic or masking tape. Work in a well-ventilated area or use a fan. Wear a face mask, gloves and eye protection.
4. Apply the stripper with a small paintbrush or an old toothbrush. Make sure to follow all directions on the label as to dilution and soaking time.
5. Leave the stripper on for approximately 30 minutes and then see if the grout has softened sufficiently to remove it as indicated in steps  #1 and #2. If it hasn't softened, repeat the above procedures, leaving the stripper on for a number of hours.
6. Once you are satisfied with the grout removal, you need to neutralize any excess stripper.
7. Mix a solution of trisodium phosphate, following the label for instructions.
8. Wipe the solution on with clean paper towels. 
9. Wash the area with normal soap and water and then dry.

After cleaning epoxy grout off tile: Necessary repairs

Now that you have your tile clean and free of excess grout, it’s time for any necessary repairs. If any grout is missing, use a small amount of the original grout to fill it in. 

You might just need to caulk any corners or seams where the existing caulk has worn away. Loctite Polyseamseal Tub & Tile Adhesive caulk is a good choice. It creates a durable mold- and mildew-resistant seal. It is ideal for humid and steamy areas and cleans up easily with soap and water. Since it is an adhesive and caulk in one, you can even use it to reattach a tile that has come loose.