1927 Moasic Tile needs sever cleaning

[lilskul]

I will attempt to post some pictures later tonight as I am sure it will help.

Here is my problem.

The tiles were covered by Linoleum and glue. I used Goof Off on some of the glue and a Tile Adhesive Remover on other parts but with the same result. 95% of the glue is gone but I still have some low spots that require some detail work with a razor or chisel.
Aside from removing the remaining glue, which I don't see being much of a problem, I am concerned about removing the glue from the grout lines as well as the dirt that seems to have lightly stained the tile.

What can be done to get these tiles to look new?

My brother wants to sand them down but I am incredibly fearful of that method. I believe he has already tried it on a section or two as well.

Please help. :dunce:

thanks

[Sponsored Links]

[bbcamp]

I moved you over here to get more visibility amongst the cleaning/restoration folk, of which, I am not one.

[lilskul]

Thank you Kindly :dunce:

[GeorgeT]

There are different processes to use around here... but first what type of tile? Stone, ceramic, porcelain or are they little glass tessare mosaic pieces?
If sanding has been tried what do the results look like?

[lilskul]

I honestly cannot say for certain what type of tile they are but I imagine that a mosaic tile from 1927 so I suspect they have to be one of two things. I am guessing they are porcelain.

So far the sanding has not progressed much as he saw my obvious displeasure. It did a little bit for cleaning up what appeared to be the dirt in the tile.

[SuperiorT&G]

Since the home was built in the 20's I would guess the tile to be an un-glazed porcelain. I just completed a restoration of a floor from the same time period, with excellent results. we first removed the mastic with citrus king mastic remover, then cleaned with high pressure steam. Next we acid washed (Phosphoric acid) and neutralized the area. I would recommend having the floor restored by a pro since some of the steps are not for the faint of heart. The final step was to apply a sealer and finish to the floor. Just as a note this is a floor in a fire station and had taken 80 years of abuse.

[Davestone]

I don't think i can add anything other than i would agree to find a pro if the job is larger than a bath floor, or foyer,but if it's a small area you may want to do it yourself, trying maybe the citrus stripper/cleaner, and a buffer, with a black stripping pad,or a very stiff nylon bristle brush.Also, there are other glue removers and strippers you can try.