Quarry tiles - replace or restore?
Question:I like the original quarry tiled floor from our 60's kitchen, but they are quite badly stained. I can't pretend they have any historic value, or even were particularly well laid, so on balance should I
1) Replace with new tiles, perhaps up to a higher standard
2) Get a specialist to restore them to something approaching their original state
Which will cost more, and what would you do?
Answers:
A good and cheap place to start is to try using "raw linseed oil." This will usually remove most of your tough stains. You want to be careful about using acids on "real quarry tile" because they are very porous and acids could etch your tiles permanently.
If the linseed oil doesn't do the trick then a more expensive alternative would be using Lithofin Victorian Tiled Floor Restorer and a good sealer is HG Golvpolish. You should be able to get these from good tile retailers. If the tiles are laid on earth, or on a lime bed on earth, they should not be sealed as they need to breath to avoid damp being trapped. The "original" tile finish was a clear oil and of course this still allows the tile to breath. Try Slate Dressing from a fireplace shop, this is colourless and will give a richness to the tiles.
Hope this helps.
I would go for the restore option some form of acid clean, and once completed you can get them sealed with a protective coating.
both options are expensive but an original flooring is much sort after, if you plan to sell at any point.
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