What can we use to loosen up a coating of water-based latex paint over unsealed saltillo tile? We plan on using wire brushes on the floor, but I'm assuming that something besides plain water might loosen up the paint before we attack it with the wire brushes. THANKS!
Are you familiar with a product called Goof Off?
-- Todd H.
Fresh paine? We helped a friend clean up a paint disaster from cabinets and parquet floor, but porous tile is another story. We got dried latex off other kinds of surfaces. Try Formula 409, let it soak, then scrub with stiff brush and hot water. Wire brush would likely leave marks. If it is only dripped on the surface and not rubbed in, paint remover might lift it - would have to scrape it up carefully so you don't grind it further into the tile. I'd try the 409 first. Have tried to remove old paint from concrete, using two kinds of paint remover, but almost no effect. Good luck.
At work we have cans of graffiti remover. It is cheap hair spray. I works on block and brick. Evaporates well, I would be cautious about my floor.
I would nix the wire brushes, scratch the tile for sure. Plastic scrubbers might be a better choice. Soaking with water might help.
Why is there a coat of paint over the tile? Personally, I'd just buy new ones if the painted ones haven't been laid. If they have been laid and you don't want to replace them about the best you could do would be to use a chemical paint remover.
Don't use wire brushes...Saltillo is soft and you will get really ugly, deep scratches. If you have to use something to abrade off the paint, use sand paper (or cloth)...#120 works fine.
If the paint happens to be on a yellow tile (or yellow portion) you may sand through the yellow to red so be careful when sanding. Yellow parts are yellow because they were more exposed to heat when fired and are a bit harder.
-- dadiOH ____________________________
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