Heard of epoxy grout? We’re not surprised. It’s quickly becoming the go-to choice for tiled surfaces that need real staying power. You’ll now find it everywhere, from commercial kitchens to leisure centres, spas and residential wetrooms. Strong, waterproof, and stain-resistant, it’s no wonder it’s become the go-to option for busy, high-traffic spaces.
But here’s the thing. While epoxy grout is durable, it can also be a source of frustration for installers and maintenance teams alike. Those stubborn residues can be hard to remove, and as many professionals are discovering, standard cleaning products don’t have the desired effect.
The Rise of Epoxy Grout in the UK
Over the past few years, resin-based grout has gone from a specialist material to a standard feature on many UK projects. The reason? Tighter hygiene standards and busier commercial spaces, and a stronger push for long-lasting, low-maintenance finishes. It’s now the norm in everything from restaurant kitchens to gym changing rooms, and it’s clear it’s now here to stay.
But as its use has grown, so has one ongoing challenge: removing the hardened layers it leaves behind once the job is done. In the last six months alone, we have noticed an increase in requests for help with epoxy grout build-up across various sites.
What Causes That Cloudy Haze on Tiles?
Unlike cementitious grout, epoxy is made with a combination of resins and hardeners. Once set, it forms a dense, non-absorbent surface that resists water and dirt. The only downside is that the same properties that make it tough also make it hard to remove.
If residues aren’t thoroughly cleaned after installation, they can bond to the surface, leaving a stubborn, cloudy haze. Over time, this residue will attract dirt and spoil the finish. This then creates a patchy appearance that’s impossible to shift with everyday cleaners.
Even the most seasoned tilers can run into trouble. Minor clean-up delays or a missed patch can be all it takes for the leftover material to cure. Once that happens, you’re dealing with a chemical bond rather than surface dirt, and you need the right product to break it down once and for all. That’s where FILA CR10 comes in.
Meet FILA’s CR10
A concentrated, high-viscosity detergent, CR10, is formulated specifically to eliminate epoxy grout haze and film from dense tile surfaces. Think porcelain tiles, glazed ceramics, glass mosaics and polished quarry tiles. The kind of materials in which epoxy grout is most often used.
What makes the product stand out is its clever make-up. This liquid cleaner is thick enough to cling to vertical surfaces, so it doesn’t run off. At the same time, it softens epoxy deposits without affecting the material underneath. It’s also ready to use straight from the bottle. No dilution, no complicated mixing – just shake the product, apply it, and wait.
Another advantage is that it smells better than most heavy-duty products. The almond fragrance might seem like a minor detail, but for anyone who spends hours on site, it’s the little things that count.
How to Use This Cleaner for Epoxy Residues
This formula is designed to make epoxy removal as simple as possible. Here’s how to use it on your tile projects:
- Step 1: Shake before use.
- Step 2: Apply this cleaner undiluted with a flat brush, ensuring to cover all residues.
- Step 3: Leave it to dwell for about 30 minutes to allow the film to soften.
- Step 4: For vertical surfaces, scrub with an abrasive sponge or spatula. For floors, use a single-disc machine fitted with a suitable pad.
- Step 5: Rinse thoroughly with water.
When the haze is particularly stubborn, apply a second round and leave it to do its job for a while.
Why CR10 Works
It’s the science behind this epoxy grout cleaner that makes all the difference. The product’s gel-like formula is what keeps it in contact with the residue longer than standard liquid cleaners, which is key to effectively breaking down the specialist grout. For anyone tackling large wall areas or mosaics, this cling factor makes a huge difference.
How CR10 Compares to Other FILA Cleaners
At FILA, our professional cleaners are designed for different jobs, so knowing which one to use can really make all the difference. As we’ve covered, CR10 is the one for epoxy grout haze with a simple, ready-to-use formula. PS87 PRO, on the other hand, is a powerful, multi-purpose degreaser designed to remove dirt, waxes, and oils from materials such as porcelain, stone, and terracotta. Then there’s DETERDEK PRO, a buffered acid cleaner for cement grout and other minerals on ceramic and porcelain tiles (though not for natural stone). Each has its purpose, but when it comes to cleaning resin-based grout, CR10 is the clear choice.
Your Go-To Fix for Epoxy Residues
Epoxy grout isn’t going anywhere. It’s tough, long-lasting, and ideal for the modern spaces we design and build today. The only downside is the residue it can leave behind, that dull film that takes the shine off an otherwise perfect job.
If you’re working with this speciality grout, it’s worth keeping this epoxy grout cleaner to hand. It’s the easiest way to bring tiled surfaces back to their best and keep every installation looking fresh, clean, and finished to a high standard.
To find out more or discuss a project, please feel free to contact FILA’s technical team.
