It’s usually not too difficult, but removing paint from tile does require patience and the correct technique. Otherwise, you can damage your tile.
1
/
7
Warm Water and Soap
To remove paint from tile, start by soaking the area with soap and warm water, then try to wipe it off. “This will give you a gauge on how difficult it will be to remove,” says painter Anthony Kulikowski. If it’s coming off with elbow grease, keep using this method, since it is the least likely to cause damage to the tile. If you need a little boost, try gentle scrapes with a plastic scraper as well.
2
/
7
White Vinegar
If the paint is latex, try soaking the area with heated white vinegar. Its acidity will break down the paint’s binding agents. You can then wipe it off using a clean cloth, soft-bristled nylon brush or non-abrasive sponge. “This is my go-to for bathrooms,” says DIY expert Rich Kingly. But if the paint doesn’t come off with one soaking, you may need to repeat.
Safety tip: To prevent skin and eye irritation, wear gloves and maintain good ventilation in the room.
3
/
7
Xylene
Master tiler Jeff Thacker’s go-to method to remove paint from tile is Xylene. “You just put it on a cloth and wipe the paint off,” he says. “It’s the safest method and won’t hurt the finish at all.” You can purchase Xylene at most hardware stores. Make sure to wear a mask to avoid the fumes, and after you remove the paint, clean the area with soap and water to remove the Xylene smell.
4
/
7
Stronger Cleaning Agents
For oil-based paints or stubborn spots, stronger cleaners like Goof Off, Krud Kutter, rubbing alcohol and acetone can get the job done. But, these also risk discoloring or damaging the tile, so first test them in an inconspicuous area, and always apply them to your cleaning cloth vs. directly onto the tile itself. “Remember to start gently so you don’t mess up the tile’s finish,” says painter Matthew Rathgeb. “Keeping things damp as you go also makes a big difference, so the paint doesn’t stick again.”
Safety tips: When dealing with strong chemicals, wear gloves and eye protection, open windows and keep the area free of sparks and flames, says Kingly.
5
/
7
Putty Knife, Plastic Scraper or Razor Blade
For new paint or thinly applied paint, a plastic putty knife or razor blade can do the trick. First, soak the area with warm water for 10 to 15 minutes, says Kingly. While scraping, avoid applying heavy pressure, as that can damage glazed tile. “Wear knee pads and take your time,” he says. “If you rush through the process, you may slip and chip the tile.”
To prevent scratches, Kulikowski also suggests wrapping a thick cloth around a putty knife. “But beware, as this will wear holes in the cloth and you’ll need to rework your areas often.” Soaking the paint with soap and water can also help with this technique.
6
/
7
Hair Dryer/Heat
Use a heat gun to soften up stubborn paint. Then, while the area is still warm, take a scraper to it. “Hair dryers can do this, too, but heat guns are often faster,” says home-improvement expert Andre Kazimierski.
This method is especially helpful on older splatters, says Rathgeb. Also, first test the heat gun in an inconspicuous corner, to make sure it doesn’t cause discoloration.
7
/
7
Prevention
Of course, a little prevention also goes a long way. “Take the time, ahead of time, to carefully cover any areas that you don’t want to get paint on,” says Kulikowski. Also use the proper tape for the surface you’re applying it to. “There are loads of options,” he says. “Some tapes are low tack and meant to not harm surfaces like floors or other areas that could be delicate.”
About the Experts
- Anthony Kulikowski is owner of Five Star Painting of South Bend, a Neighborly company.
- Jeff Thacker is a master tiler, remodeler and handyman with more than 28 years of experience. He also owns Jeff Thacker Master Tiler LLC in Ohio.
- Matthew Rathgeb has more than 20 years of painting experience, and is owner of Groovy Hues Painting, a residential and commercial house painting company in Philadelphia.
- Carr Lanphier is CEO of Improovy, a Chicago-based painting company.
- Andre Kazimierski is co-owner and president at HomeHero Roofing, based in Downers Grove, Illinois.
- Rich Kingly is owner of Driveway King, and a home improvement and DIY expert with hands-on experience removing paint from tile during renovations and post-project cleanups.
