If you are trying to figure out how to eliminate the excess mortar that has dried on your beautiful new tile, you have come to the right place! In this post, I will tell you how to remove thinset from tile easily using acidic cleaner.

This post is all about how to remove thinset from tile using acidic cleaner

There are undoubtedly alternative thinset removal methods, such as simple soap and water, vinegar, and non-acidic cleaners. I have had the best luck with removing mortar using an acidic cleaner, so that is what I will share with you in this post.

 

Tools Required

• Heavy-Duty Acidic Cleaner
• Stiff Tile and Grout Brush
• Microfiber Cloths
• Mixing Pail with Pre-Marked Measurements
• Neutral pH Cleanser (or dishwashing liquid)
• Gloves
• Respirator

Suitability

Before we jump in, take a quick look at the list below of the materials for which this product is considered suitable to be sure your tile is on the list.

• Flamed & Honed Granite
• Tumbled & Honed Marble
• Cleft & Honed Slate
• Quarry Tile
• Flamed & Honed Limestone
• Ceramic Tile
• Unglazed Ceramic Tile
• Porcelain Tile
• Sanded Grout
• Cast Stone

Prep Work

Safety Precautions

This cleaner contains hydrochloric acid, so it is important to ensure the area where you will be working is well-ventilated. You will also want to wear gloves and a respirator while working with the product.

Testing

I always recommend testing the product on a spare piece of tile to ensure the acidic cleaner will not damage your tile.

Prep the Area

When scrubbing the tile, the acid wash will splatter, so I recommend taping plastic to any neighboring surfaces you want to protect.

Dilute the Acidic Cleaner

You must dilute the Heavy-Duty Acidic Cleaner. The manufacturer recommends starting with 10 parts water and 1 part acidic cleaner and reducing the amount of water as needed. You can reduce the ratio to 3 parts water with 1 part cleaner.

I have found that a 4:1 ratio is very effective, but I recommend mixing up a small amount using the larger quantity of water first and working your way down to less water if it is ineffective.

 

How to Remove Thinset from Tile

 

1. Wet the Tile

I suggest starting in the back of the room and working your way out. Working in small areas, whatever is within arm’s reach, is also a good idea.

Wet the tile using a spray bottle, a mop, or a microfiber cloth. You do not want to put the acid wash directly on dry tile.

2. Apply the Diluted Acidic Cleaner

Once you have wet the tile, start applying the diluted acidic cleaner with your brush. Scrubbing with the acid wash will loosen up the mortar. Focus on the tile joints where the mortar is likely to be concentrated.

While scrubbing, allow the cleaner to remain on the area for 1 – 5 minutes. Do not allow the solution to dry on the tile.  If you see it drying, apply a little more and agitate the wash with the brush.

Depending on your grout joint size, you may want to use something to help remove the mortar from the joints. I often use a utility knife for the 1/16″ joints to remove the stubborn mortar. Whatever you decide to use, be cautious not to damage the tile.

 

 

3. Remove the Acidic Cleaner

When 1 – 5 minutes have passed, remove the acidic cleaner from the tile using clean water and a mop or microfiber cloth.

4. Neutralize the Area with a Low pH Cleanser

Due to the high acidity of the cleaner, it is essential to neutralize the surface using a low-pH cleanser. I linked a low-pH cleanser above, but you can also use dishwashing liquid and warm water.

5. Repeat as Needed

You may have to repeat the process a couple of times to remove all the mortar thoroughly. Follow the same method as before!

 

 

Summary

In this post, I explained how to remove thinset from tile using acidic cleaner. While there are other methods, I have found this one to be the most effective. Also, this is one of the more straightforward activities you will likely tackle in your home renovation journey, so enjoy it! If you are in the planning phases of your renovation, you might like my posts, Cost of a Small Bathroom Remodel: Here’s a Breakdown and 8 Inexpensive Bathroom Upgrade Ideas to Make Today!