How to Get Grout Off Back of Tile

Only lay tiles with a clean back surface.

The process of laying new tile on a floor or wall involves using grout. Grout, a fixative, is designed to harden to hold tiles in place, but this means that it resists removal once fully set. While you're installing tiles, be vigilant to ensure grout doesn't get anywhere except between tiles. If it gets on the back of your tiles, it's important to clean it off before placing them in their final position so they will lie flat--improperly laid tiles are at risk of cracking.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Wooden stick with square-cut edge
• Nylon scouring pad
• Soft cloth

Instructions

1. Saturate the grout on the back of the tile with water to soften and lubricate it.

2. Scrape away as much of the grout as you can from the back of the tile using a piece of wood. Chip away at the grout with a chiseling action, starting at an edge and pushing in toward the center of the grout.

3. Pour water over any remaining grout once you've removed all the grout you can with the wooden stick.

4. Scrub the back of the tile with a nylon scouring pad to remove the rest of the grout.

5. Dry the tile with a soft cloth before installing it.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid using a metal scraping tool, which can damage the tile.

References

• Ask the Builder: Excess Grout Removal: Tim Carter