How To Get Mortar Off Tile

Tile & Grout Cleaning Tips

How to Remove and Clean Mortar Off of Tile Flooring

Staff Writer

May 3, 2021

Whether you're a pro or a beginner at installing tiles at home, there's no denying that doing it can always result in a dust and dirt-filled aftermath. Because most tiles are propped up using a cement-based mortar paste, these newly installed materials can often contain dark and grey mortar residues long after they have all dried up.

In this article, we're going to show you 3 easy ways on how to clean mortar off of tile flooring.

1. How to Remove Thinset Mortar from Tiles

What You'll Need:

Bucket of warm water
Dishwashing soap
Clean rag
Scrubber
Sponge
Chisel
Grout scraper
50-grit sanding disc
Rotary sander

Step-by-Step Guide:

Start the process by adding dishwashing soap to the bucket and fill it with warm water.
Dip the sponge in the cleaning solution and scrub the tiles and grout.
Wipe the tiles using the clean cloth and pat it dry.
Scrape away any dried thinset by using a chisel, chipping each mark from the tile without scratching the tile itself.
Use a grout scraper to remove any remaining thinset from the grout lines.
Get a 50-grit sanding disc and place it on a rotary sander at its lowest setting. Gently chip away remaining thinset stains from the tiles.
Finish it off by vacuuming the area to remove any excess dust.
Polish the tile surface with a clean cloth or a dry rag to reveal its shine and sparkle.

2. How to Remove Mortar Cement from Tiles

What You'll Need:

Vinegar
Water
Spray bottle
Sponge
Clean cloth or towel
Scraper
Razor blade

Step-by-Step Guide:

Fill the spray bottle with vinegar and spritz it all over the surface.
Wipe down the solution using the sponge and pay special attention to areas with excess mortar marks, such as grout lines and grout joints. Remove mortar marks by wiping down the surface repeatedly.
Focus cleaning on areas with the thickest layer of thinset.
Gently use a scraper or a razor blade to carefully chip away mortar stains.
Wipe the tile floor with a clean cloth dampened with warm water.
Pat the tiles dry by using a fresh set of towels.

3. How to Remove Mortar Cement from Salvaged Tiles

What You'll Need:

Bucket
Muriatic acid
Water
Respirator
Protective eyewear
Rubber gloves
Scrub brush

Step-by-Step Guide:

Put your protective gear before diving deep into the cleaning process. This includes wearing protective eyewear and gearing up with rubber gloves.
Fill the bucket with water and muriatic acid. Do this carefully to avoid any splatters that can discolor and damage surfaces.
Submerge as many tiles as you can in the solution and let them sit for five minutes.
Remove one tile at a time from the mixture and scrub them with a brush.
Rinse these tiles with clean water and leave them to dry for 24 hours.

Clean Tile Flooring Made Easy

If you're looking for an easy and safe way to have your tile flooring cleaned, contact us here at Luce Maintenance Group for tile & grout cleaning services! From home to office floors, our team of dedicated professional cleaners are here to restore your tile flooring's original sparkle and shine.