How to replace or rejuvenate porch slate tiles?

SharlaK

Hi,

The previous owners of my property filled some broken stale tile corners and missing grout with concrete. I added to the eyesore by accidentally spilling some paint on them. I am unsure or whether the paint was water based or oil based as it happened a long time ago and I have used both paints in this area.

Is there a practical way I can rejuvenate my small porch with some kind of paints / stains that will make it all evenly black or is it just time to retile?

If I retile is that a job that I can realistically do myself without expensive equipment hire including removal of the concrete or do you think I'd be better off getting professional help?

Thanks

EricL

Hello @SharlaK 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about your porch slate tiles.

I propose trying to clean and buff the tiles first before you consider re-tiling. From a D.I.Y. perspective, if you've not done any tiling before, I suggest getting some basic experience first such as doing a splash back for your laundry or kitchen before you tackle a project of this size.

I recommend using a pressure washer with a patio cleaner attachment. A good example would be the Ryobi 1800W 2030PSI Pressure Washer. It has multiple tool attachments including the patio washer and multiple brush and wand accessories.

I suspect that beneath all that dust and grime is the real face of the slate tiles. Should you get the original colour back, I propose using a natural sealer to protect it from getting dirty again.

In regards to the paint stains, they should theoretically come off when you use your pressure washer, if not, I suggest using a Craftright 5-in-1 Scraper to lift and chip the paint stain.

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

Eric