It’s entirely possible to remove tile paint from tiles whether you’re hoping to start painting all over again or you need to banish some accidental splatters.
In this guide, we will discuss 4 effective ways of removing paint from tiles because we know it is inevitable that you’ll end up with a bit of paint on your tile or grout even if you use masking tape!
Just bear in mind that the methods we will discuss may worsen the damage of tiles with cracks, flakes, or webbing.
Tools and Materials
- Utility Knife
- Dust Mask
- Heat Gun
- Plastic Scraper
- Citrus-Based Paint Stripper
- Rubber Gloves
Method 1: Scrape It Off
This method is most useful if you need to get rid of careless splatters on dried tiles. If you are attempting to scrape spots that have been there for decades, wear a mask as the paint may be hazardous lead-based paint.
Step 1: Start at an unnoticeable test area first and hold a utility knife at a 45-degree angle and scrape paint off the tile using a firm but gentle stroke. If you notice any glaze cracking or flaking, proceed to method 2. However, if the paint comes up without harming the glaze, proceed with confidence.
Step 2: Dampen a clean towel or rag and wipe all of the paint splatters off. If some don’t come off, refer to method 3.
Method 2: Paint Remover
We recommend asking your hardware store for the best paint remover for the type of glaze and tiles that you have. If you are still unsure, Citrisip is least likely to damage glazing but will still remove paint from your tiles. Always ensure that your working area is well-ventilated by opening windows or using fans.
Step 1: Clean your tiles with a 50/50 water to white vinegar solution or household cleaner. Dampen a cloth with water and wipe over the surface to neutralise. Before proceeding to the next step, put on your goggles and gloves.
Step 2: In an unnoticeable area, test the tiles with the paint remover. Using a clean rag or material, apply the paint remover as recommend by your manufacturer and let it sit for the recommended time.
Step 3: Holding your plastic scraper at a 45-degree angle, scrape off the paint and wipe clean with remover after scraping. If there is no damage to the glaze, continue for the remainder of the tiles. If there is damage, you can proceed but may need to refinish the tiles.
Step 4: Once all of the paint has been removed, use warm soapy water to dry with a clean rag/towel.
Method 3: Heat and Scrape
A heat gun loosens dried paint. With any paint from before 1980, wear a dust mask for protection as you work.
Step 1: While using this method, work in small areas of around a square foot at a time. Heat the tiles while constantly moving the heat gun to avoid scorching a certain area and continue until the paint feels soft and tacky.
Step 2: Hold a plastic scraper at a 45-degree angle and remove the paint from the tile, starting from an outside edge and working your way in. Most of the time it will lift off quickly in strips but be patient when in tricky areas like corners.
Step 3: Using a water-dampened rag, occasionally clean the area and repeat the heat-scrape-wipe method until all paint is removed.
Method 4: Wipe It Up While It’s Wet
If you notice that paint has dripped or splattered onto tiles, it’s best to remove it quickly before it dries.
Step 1: Use a damp cloth to wipe the patch of paint and rinse it off when the cloth becomes saturated.
Step 2: Apply a solvent. Based on the type of paint used, apply a solvent like mineral thinner or white vinegar to completely remove it from the tile. If the paint is water-based or latex paint, just warm soapy water will do the job. To apply these solvents, you just need a small amount on your cloth and rub it into the tile until the paint has lifted.
Step 3: After you have removed the paint with dish soap or solvent, rinse off your cloth and remove the solution from the tile with warm water.
Need More Info?
If you’re still unsure or need some more information, feel free to contact us for a chat or simple advice. Additionally, whether you need bathroom tile paint or kitchen tile paint, you can browse our excellent selection here.
