Tiling it on

How to remove super glue from tile — best methods revealed

If you have some excess glue on tiled surfaces, read on to learn how to remove super glue from tile. We’ll arm you with the best information, making the job quick and easy.

How to remove super glue from tile

If possible, remove super glue from tile before it dries. This is, of course, the best and easiest way to do so. Use warm soapy water and a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe the glue away. You may need to repeat the process several times.

However, in many cases, the excess glue isn’t noticed until it’s dry. What then?

Super glue forms such a strong bond once dry that many people assume that there is virtually no way to remove it. The secret is to use a solvent that will soften the glue, and then you can remove it without damage to the surface.

In this article, we’ll talk about two common types of tiles and how to proceed with removing super glue from these tiles. You’ll also get an idea of how to get super glue off many other surfaces as well.

How to remove super glue from porcelain tiles

Removing super glue from porcelain tile should be fairly quick and easy because the porcelain has a hard, polished surface. The key is to soften the glue so you can remove it without scratching the surface.

The most commonly used solvent to soften super glue is acetone, the main ingredient in nail polish remover. Follow these simple steps:

  1. Dampen a cloth or paper towel with a generous amount of acetone.
  2. Apply the cloth to the glue and allow to soak for 10–15 minutes.
  3. Once soft, the glue should dissolve and peel away by scrubbing with a cloth or a sponge.
  4. Wash the tile with soap and water once the glue is gone.

Alternatively, you can use a commercial glue remover and follow the same steps.

Important note: No matter what kind of tile or material you are trying to remove super glue from, always test an inconspicuous area with the acetone or glue remover before proceeding. Make sure the solvent doesn’t damage or discolour the surface. 

How to remove super glue from ceramic tile

Removing super glue from ceramic tile is accomplished in much the same way. The difference is that ceramic is more porous, which will require letting the acetone or glue remover soak in a bit longer. 

One way to accomplish this is to place a sheet of plastic wrap over the paper towel or cloth containing the acetone. Then tape it down or put something around the edges to seal the plastic wrap to the tile, preventing the acetone from evaporating.

Allow the acetone to soften the glue for up to a half hour, then check to see if the glue is ready. Once it is soft, proceed as above.

By using super glue with a precision dispenser, hopefully you won't spill or drip any adhesive, avoiding the need to clean away excess glue. The solution is Loctite Super Glue Control. Versatile and strong, this adhesive dries in seconds to a transparent, nearly invisible bond. It comes in an easy-squeeze bottle with a precise dispensing tip, so the glue goes exactly where you want it.

For hard-to-reach places or repairs on tiny parts, try Loctite Super Glue Precision, which offers the same reliable liquid glue in a precision dispenser with an extra-long nozzle. Ideal for pinpoint applications.