How to remove haze from a ceramic tile floor?

Profile picture for cgordonrealtor
Hi...if a ceramic tile floor was not properly wiped down while being installed what can I do now to remove the haze over it?  No matter how much washing the chalky white haze is still there.  Worse around the edges but for the most apart all over.
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January 31 2011 - Attleboro
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Answers (7)

Profile picture for jim.bushart825
Leveller is basically a really thin-set mortar. There are products made for cleaning that type of stuff off tile, we used them all the time when I used to lay tile and they saved us a LOT of work.

Look in your local hardware place (I know for a fact that the larger stores carry the stuff) in the tile section. Look for the acidic cleaners, usually they say that they clean grout haze. All the ones I've used are great in cleaning off grout and mortar haze from tiles.

A few things to note: the chemicals are acidic, so mix them in a plastic bucket, and USE GLOVES! Also do not let the solution come into contact with cement, or metal such as drains or sinks, etc. It WILL etch or discolor them. Lastly, the product may create fumes when used, so make sure to use adequate ventilation.

Also, you may have to apply the product a few times. If the haze is stubborn, don't be afraid to let it sit on the tile for longer than the instructions say, up to an hour or two if necessary.

Good luck!

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July 19 2011
Profile picture for HomePro Remodeling
The haze is probably from the grouting process.  You can buy a grout haze remover solution from most tile stores if you'd rather not use the vinegar.  Remember that vinegar is acidic so it will need to be rinsed well and can cause dulling of some tiles if it is left on too long.  

My first move would be to try a white synthetic steel wool pad(sometimes called Scotch Brite) pads to mechanically remove the haze with a bit of water.  The synthetic is much gentler on the tile, DO NOT use regular steel wool.

You will have to reseal the grout after you've tried any of these techniques.

I hope this helps,
Ethan 
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March 12 2011
Profile picture for Helen Edwards
Please tell me more about the Tang removal !  Know old remedies work best...vinegar etc.
thanks!
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March 05 2011
Profile picture for Harris Custom Homes

Hello Cheryl
I recommend a cleaner from Home Depot or Floor and Decor and then
a sealer . This will solve the problem and will keep it from coming back.
The profeesional products are not expensive.

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March 05 2011
Profile picture for SoCal Appraiser
Vinegar works ....plus you can cook with it.
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February 08 2011
Profile picture for freemanenmeier
Hello Cheryl, 

The best way and is what I do, after wiping it down with a damp sponge with clean water each time, let it dry then take small terry cloth towels and rub them out like taking wax off a car. you will have some dust that you just vacuum up.  

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February 08 2011
Have you seen this site (via Google of course!)
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/893141/how_to_remove_grout_haze_from_a_new.html

I was going to suggest Tang......that stuff works on everything :-).
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January 31 2011
 

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