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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?
I'm sorry to hear that using that product required additional effort @477bus. That is what was recommended to me by the Crommelin technical team, so I thought it best to pass on their product suggestion.
Applying the coats on Monday and having rain on them within 24 hours would likely be an issue. Ideally, you'd want them not to get wet for the best part of a week after application. I do note the warning to not apply the product if rain is expected within 48 hours.
Did you do the porosity test on the terracotta to ensure it absorbs the water droplet? It's important to understand if your tiles are porous or not. This product can only be used on bare terracotta tiles. I have the impression that these tiles could have a type of glaze on them that might have worn down over the years. If they were glazed, then the sealer could not penetrate and would sit on the surface, often resulting in this cloudy reaction. However, the issue seems to be isolated to the areas exposed to weather, and it makes me wonder whether water might be getting under the tiles and permeating up from underneath. If water is trapped under the tiles on the membrane, this could be causing the issue.
I'd recommend you contact the Crommelin technical team directly so they can discuss the issue with you and work towards a solution. I understand this must be frustrating, but sometimes, it is best to speak with the product manufacturer directly. They can be contacted seven days a week on 1800 655 711.
Mitchell
Hello @477bus
Yes, there are products that improve bathroom tile grouting, but it's important to check if they can be used for outdoors. Quite often, when grout begins to deteriorate it's better to replace it with new grout rather than putting new grout on top of deteriorating grout. Old grout often means that it is breaking down and can give way at any time.
One of the reasons for doing a quick cosmetic fix is if you are selling the property and you want to give your grout a bit of a fresh look. Otherwise, it would be better to do it properly so that your repair work will last a long time. I recommend using Dunlop 1.5kg Flexible Coloured Grout - Slate Grey. It can fill gaps from 1 to 8mm and is rated for outdoor use.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Hi,
Well, Eric and Mitchell seem to be the main responders so I'll ask my next question on the end of this thread is that's ok please.
The balcony grouting and tiles are now better than for decades so thank you for your help and patience.
On to the bathroom tiles and grouting on walls and floor.
I've attached my supply of products.
The first area is the bathroom wall above the bath.
Long Life Grout Cleaner didn't make a mark, neither did the Prewash Power (mainly as its for clothes).
The White King Scum Remover didn't work either with brown stains remaining.
I do have a white grout pen I could try.
What would you suggest here please?
Next will be the bathroom floor tiles followed by the living room tiles, all being very dark.
I can pressure wash the bathroom but not the living room of course.
What would you try in these two places please?
Appreciate your help and those in the Newstead 4006 Bunnings too without which I would be lost . . .
Hello @477bus
I can clearly see that your bathroom grout has a sealer on top of it due the glossy finish reflecting back. If this was ordinary grout it would not have any reflection at all. In order to renew your grout, I'm afraid it will need to removed and re-grouted then re-sealed. If you are after a lighter finish for your bathroom and living room tiles, I'm afraid it will need to be removed as well. The cleaners you currently have will clean the surface of the grout, but it will not lighten or change the colour finish of your grout.
In regards to your grout pen, again it is a cosmetic fix and not a long-term solution to getting lighter coloured grout.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
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