Removing paint from tiles requires a different process than removing paint from a plaster or concrete wall. This is because dried paint removal from tiles may cause the tiles to crack or become dull. Additionally, tile joints can be damaged. In this article, we explain the right ways to remove paint from tiles.
Removing Paint from Tiles
Removing paint from tiles carries the risk of damaging them. When tiles are produced, they are heated in high-temperature furnaces, and then a glossy coating is applied. Improper paint removal, especially on interior walls and floor tiles, can damage this glossy layer. Therefore, you should be careful and choose the right method to remove paint from the tiles.
1-Scraping Paint from Tiles
Scraping paint off tiles is a very risky method. No matter which scraping tool you use, there is a possibility of scratching the tiles. For this reason, we do not recommend scraping paint off tiles. It’s a good idea to use a plastic spatula only to scrape off any paint that has not yet dried on the tiles. Then you can move on to detailed cleaning. This way you won’t scratch the tiles.
2-Getting Rid of Paint on Tiles Using Paint Thinner
As mentioned above, there is a shiny layer on the tile. You should use the right thinner to prevent damage to this layer. So which thinner removes the paint on the tile? Cellulosic thinner and synthetic thinner can remove the paint on the tile. Cellulosic thinner “Lacquer Thinner” is more effective in removing paint.
However, it can dull the surface of the tile. For this reason, you should wash the surface of the tile immediately with soapy water as soon as you remove the paint stain on the tile. “Related post: Does paint thinner remove paint?”
3-Removing Paint Stains on Tiles with Paint Remover
Paint removers have various chemical components. They can damage some sensitive surfaces. Some paint removers can also damage glazed tiles. Therefore, you should buy a paint remover that is suitable for sensitive surfaces. Paint remover removes paint and stains from tiles. However, we recommend that you test it before applying it.
4-Removing Paint from Tiles with Acetone
Acetone is a good stain and paint remover. However, it is usually sold in small packages. It is therefore more suitable for removing small stains and paint residues from tiles.
How to Remove Paint from Tiles?
To remove a few drops of paint stain from a tile, apply acetone to the tile, wait 10-15 seconds and wipe with a cloth. To remove larger paint stains, pour cellulosic thinner “Lacquer Thinner” onto a clean, dry cloth and wipe the painted tile with this cloth.
Paint remover is also a good way to remove paint from tiles. Apply the paint remover to the tile with a brush. Check the recommended time for the paint to soften on the tile. This timing may not be suitable for the tile’s delicate surface. Therefore, shorten the waiting time even further. Then wipe off the paint remover with a cloth and wash the tile. Here are the details:
- Scrape off excess paint: Use a plastic scraper or putty knife to gently lift off any loose paint without scratching the tile surface.
- Soak the area: Dampen a cloth or sponge with warm water and place it over the paint. Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the paint.
- Use a paint remover or stripper: Apply a tile-safe paint remover or stripper to the affected area. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the product.
- Scrub the paint: After the paint remover has had time to work, use a non-abrasive brush or sponge to scrub off the paint.
- Rinse and clean: Once the paint is removed, rinse the tiles with warm water to remove any residue from the remover. Dry with a clean cloth.
- Repeat if necessary: If some paint remains, repeat the process until the surface is clean.
For stubborn paint stains, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water or a commercial paint remover designed for tiles. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below we have answered the most curious questions about removing paint from tiles. You can use the comments section for your other questions.
How do you get dried paint off tile?
The best way to remove dried paint from tile is with cellulosic thinner “Lacquer Thinner” and acetone. However, it can cause the tile to become dull.
What liquid removes paint from tiles?
Liquids such as acetone, paint remover, lacquer thinner, alcohol can remove paint from tiles. However, it may cause some damage to the tile. Therefore, it should be tested first.
Does WD 40 remove tile paint?
Wd 40 can only help to remove small paint stains from the tile. It can also leave an oily film on the tile.
Does white vinegar remove paint from tiles?
Vinegar is not very effective at removing paint stains from tiles. It can be effective only if the stain is small and has not yet dried.
Does alcohol remove paint from tile?
Yes, alcohol can help remove paint from tiles, especially if the paint is still fresh or hasn’t fully dried. To use alcohol:
Dampen a cloth or sponge with rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol).
Gently rub the painted area, working in small sections.
Once the paint starts to loosen, wipe it off with a clean cloth.
Rinse the tile with warm water to remove any alcohol residue.
For stubborn stains, you might need to repeat the process. Be sure to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the tile’s surface.
