How to remove epoxy grout from tile without damaging the tiling

Epoxy grout is formulated to be strong and resistant, so the properties that make it great for tiling also make it difficult to remove. However, with the right tools and techniques, it can be done.

If you’re cleaning epoxy grout off tile, you’ll need the following:

• Safety goggles and rubber gloves
• Epoxy remover
• Paint scraper
• Scouring pad
• Paintbrush
• Stiff brush
• Trisodium phosphate
• Masking tape
• Bucket
• Cloth/Sponge
• Kitchen roll
• White vinegar or white spirit
• Water

1. Scrape off grout. Using the paint scraper, remove as much of the dried epoxy grout as you can. You might also need to use a scouring pad and soapy water.
2. Apply solvent. Use a cloth soaked in white vinegar or white spirit to remove the rest of the grout. If there’s still some grout left, proceed to the next step.
3. Apply masking tape. Apply tape to protect the surrounding wall or tiles.
4. Prepare. Before using epoxy remover, make sure the room is well-ventilated. Wear safety goggles and rubber gloves.
5. Apply epoxy remover. After reading the product instructions carefully, apply the epoxy remover with a paintbrush.
6. Wait for the epoxy to soften. Leave the remover on the grout stain for about 30 minutes. Once it’s softened, repeat steps 1 and 2 to remove the last bits. If the grout is still hard, repeat step 6 until it softens.
7. Remove the epoxy remover. Once all the grout has gone, get rid of any remaining epoxy remover using trisodium phosphate. Check the product instructions, mix up the solution, and then apply to the area with clean kitchen roll.
8. Clean up. Wash the tiling with soap and water. Sweep up and dispose of any remaining bits of grout.

Once your tiling is clean and free from any grout stains, you might need to make some minor repairs. If you took off more epoxy grout than you meant to, you can simply use some of the original grout to fill in the gaps.