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Epoxy Grout Haze Removal







LATICRETE International, Inc. produces easy to use epoxy based grouts. When LATAPOXY
�
and LATICRETE
�
Grouts
are used in accordance with installation and clean-up methods they will enhance your tile project by creating long lasting
durability and beauty. To avoid grout haze, follow the installation instructions outlined in the How To Install Brochures of
the grout being used. For LATICRETE SpectraLOCK
�
PRO Grout; use data sheet 685.5. For LATAPOXY SP-100 and
LATAPOXY 2000 Industrial Grout use data sheet 631.5 INTL.

Epoxy grout haze is the byproduct of improper cleaning and is not a product defect. Epoxy haze is caused by the initial
cleaning water being left on the surface of the tile too long. Epoxy resins suspended in the cleaning water are transferred
onto the tile surface during the cleaning; the water evaporates and the epoxy resins remain behind. IT IS NECESSARY
TO DO A SECOND WASH! The following steps can be taken to remove epoxy haze;

FOR LATICRETE
�
SPECTRALOCK
�
PRO GROUT:

The best way to alleviate the residue in the first place is to ensure that a final wash is done within the time frame stated in
the instructions. Begin final cleaning approximately 1 hour after installation of the LATICRETE SpectraLOCK PRO
Grout. Mix the second packet of LATICRETE SpectraLOCK PRO Cleaning Additive to 2 gallons (7.6 L) of clean, cool
water. Use a white scrub pad to lightly scrub apart any of the leftover residue remaining on the surface of the tile. Then
drag a clean, damp sponge diagonally over the scrubbed surfaces to remove any froth and residue. Rinse sponge often and
change water every 50 ft
2
(4.5 m
2
). Allow cleaned areas to dry and inspect entire surface of tile or stone. Repeat process if
haze remains. If haze remains 24 hours after installation then straight white vinegar can be used to remove it from the
surface. Be careful when using vinegar on polished natural stone; it is recommended to do a test area in an inconspicuous
area to determine results.

Alternatively, a bleaching type cleanser (e.g. Clorox
�
Soft Scrub
�
with Bleach) and a white scrub pad can be used to
remove haze from the surface.

If haze remains, or if a polished stone has haze remaining and it can not be removed with vinegar or the bleaching type
cleaners, then contact Miracle Sealants Co. at 1-800-350-1901 or Dominion Restoration at 1-800-835-4456 for best
recommendation and where it can be purchased.

FOR LATAPOXY
�
SP-100 AND LATAPOXY 2000 INDUSTRIAL GROUT HAZE:

The best way to alleviate the residue in the first place is to ensure that a final wash is done within the time frame stated in
the instructions. Within 12 hours for LATAPOXY 2000 Industrial Grout and 24 hours for LATAPOXY SP-100, the tiles
should be cleaned with a new sponge or nylon pad with soapy water (clear liquid dishwashing detergent works best).
Liquid Electric Dishwashing detergent with a nylon scrub pad can also be used on LATICRETE SpectraLOCK PRO Grout
and LATAPOXY SP-100 within 24 hours of the grout installation.

Good results have been achieved by using one of the following cleaners for installations that are older than 24 hours:

Mask off the work area to protect adjacent finished surfaces. Follow the manufacturers application instructions.

The Miracle Company Epoxy Grout Film Remover (800) 350-1901
The Miracle Company H
2
0 Strip (800) 350-1901
Dominion Restoration Petra 7 (800) 835-4456
Walter Legge Company Legge Stripper/Tex Spar (800) 345-3443

Epoxy Grout Haze Removal
TDS 198


For stubborn film that also includes part C filler powder use a commercial gel type water cleanable paint remover (e.g. Zip
Strip, Strip Eze, Red Devil, Jasco), and scrub with a nylon pad to dislodge the haze. Always conduct a small test area to
verify results. Do not over expose the grout joints to these cleaners.

Neutralize the effects of the cleaners by thoroughly rinsing the floors with either TSP or a solution of baking soda and
clean water. Then rinse thoroughly with clean water. WARNING/ CAUTION: Strong detergent solutions require eye
protection and gloves.

Another alternative that can be used for tiles that will not scratch:

Use Electric Dishwasher Detergent Powder Type (Cascade/Electrosol, etc...). 1/4 cup (0.059 Liters) per 3.5 gallon
(13.2 Liters) pail of warm water. Wet floor with a mop (liberally) and apply the dishwasher detergent /water
solution. Then broadcast silica sand over the floor. Use a buffing machine with a white 3M pad and make several
passes over the floor. Next, vacuum up the solution and sand with a wet vac. Rinse well with clean water. Repeat
process as required.



Thoroughly rinse area with clean water to insure that all the detergent solution has been removed.



The cleaners listed above can also be used with sand and then agitated with a nylon scrub pad.

To ensure good results and compatibility with the tile or stone, always verify results with a small test area.

The best way to avoid grout haze is to do a thorough cleaning the day of the installation.


Clorox and Soft Scrub are registered trademarks of The Clorox Company






















Technical Data Sheets are subject to change without notice. For latest revision, check our website at
www.laticrete.com

TDS 198.doc






R 26 November 2007