How to restore balcony tiles?

[477bus]

These balcony tiles are around 25 years old and I have 2 areas that scrubbing with sugar soap won't fix.

The first is where I spilt some Acetone I was using. I mopped it up quickly but it has left large marks.

The second is oval shapes which appeared from nowhere over time in 3 or 4 tiles.

Nothing has covered the tiles at any time, the oval shapes get  a lot of direct sunlight.

Pressure washing, washing up liquid or sugar soap hasn't made an iota of difference.

I have occasionally used Davco Tile & Grout Cleaner from Bunnings to clean the tiles and have a bottle ready to go.

I thought I'd get some proper advice first as these problems aren't general cleaning issues.

What do you think?AcetoneWeird

[EricL]

Hi @477bus 

Thanks for sharing your question about cleaning your tiles. I propose trying Chemtech 5L Brick Tile And Paver Cleaner on the surface of your tiles. It rapidly cleans brick & concrete, quarry and wall tiles, rubber, vinyl, plastic and metal surfaces. I suggest testing a small area first and see if its effective. This is the cleaning compound most trades use to clean tiles in a construction area.     

However, if it still fails to clean the surface, I suggest engaging the services of a professional tile resurfacing specialist. It's probable that they will use machines or specialty compounds that will etch the surface of your tile to clean it or at least remove the stains on it.   

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when working with the chemical. Please make sure to follow all the safety guidelines printed at the back of the packaging.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[477bus]

Thanks for the advice. 

I used the Davco Tile & Grout Cleaner firstly, as I purchased it a few months back for this job.

Didn't make any impact at all.

Next, I tried the Chemtech Cleaner diluted about 1:7-8 parts with water on all the balcony tiles together.

Used a scrubbing brush but it made little impact on any tiles, even the other tiles that are slightly blackened.

Should I try stronger or undiluted?

I can't afford professionals. Getting tiles laid was a nightmare as nobody wanted the small'ish job.

The people I did eventually get, who laid tiles at work, threw the grout water on my pot plants.

Stronger solution? One tile at a time?

Thanks.

[EricL]

Hello @477bus 

I'm sorry to hear that none of the cleaners made a dent in the condition of the tiles. I can only propose using the Chemtech in a stronger mix. Using stronger chemicals at this point could lead to surface stripping and uneven patchy surface finish. If you are currently not prepared to have professionals revamp your tile surface. I propose holding off any other cleaning efforts that might damage the surface permanently. Once your budget is in order, I then suggest having it done professionally. 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[477bus]

Thanks for that.

I think I've done what I can for now.

I'll scrub the grouting to finish off.

Is there a product I can use to 'gloss-up' the tiles and improve the look and protect in the meantime?

Thanks.

[JacobZ]

Hi @477bus,

You can use Crommelin 4L Water-Based Paving Sealer to offer some protection and a sheen to the tiles.

This can be applied using a 230mm Roller Frame, 230mm Roller Covers and 230mm Clear Disposable Tray.

Ensure you follow the manufacturer's application instructions closely to ensure the best results.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[477bus]

Small balcony - can I get a 1L tub of this to Newstead 4006 as a special order? Cheers.

[JacobZ]

Hi @477bus,

Unfortunately, Newstead does not stock the 1L version of this product, however, if you speak to the team at the Special Orders desk, they will be able to assist with ordering a 1L tin for you.

There is also this Crommelin 1L Diamond Coat Stone Shield which is similar but will not be as glossy which is stocked at Newstead.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob

[477bus]

Just some feedback . . . I tried 7-8 tiles with neat Chemtech and not much difference to the big marks.

Overall, the tiles look better than next door thanks to this.

Between you and me, the Acetone streaks looked awful so I scrubbed both tiles with . . . Acetone.

It merged the streaks into pale clouds which is much better. A bit like over-spraying paint to blend in. Quickly flushed with water right after.

I probably dissolved the coating but will treat the balcony to a sealant. Much better thanks!

These are the same tiles in the original photos (black paint flecks).

Chemtech then baking soda and vinegar and a lot of scrubbing.

PS the whole unit is tiled so what I've learned here will be very useful when I move on to indoors.

[477bus]

Hi, I bought the roller stuff as suggested and went for the Crommelin Stone Shield.

1L was exactly enough to do 2 coats of the balcony.

Thanks so much for your help!

PS 27yo tiles so I'm happy with this.