QUESTION

How do you clean grout stains or haze off of tile? - I have a tile where there is a grout haze or stain. How can I remove it? Is this normal to have grout residue on the tile?

ANSWER

ANSWER - There should not be a grout film left on the surface of the tile.  If the installer had been careful and cleaned it properly it could have been avoided.

If the grout is cement based then a diluted vinegar solution with a scrub brush might clean it up, since acid attacks cement.  If there was latex or polymer in the grout then acid may not work work and it may require a latex removal product.  There has to be caution in using anything with acid or using a scrub brush because it could damage the tile finish. Test a small spot first and don't proceed if you are not satisfied.

In some cases the pigment in the grout can stain a ceramic tile surface or a natural stone surface if it has a degree of porosity; particularly if the grout is a contrasting color from the tile.  In these cases a grout release or sealer can be applied to the surface of the tile before grouting and this will act as a bond breaker to keep the grout from sticking to the tile surface.

There are a list of manufacturers who make cleaning products for tile and stone on our website at www.CTaSC.com in Expert Answers under Resources in the Cleaners and Sealers section.  Good Luck.