Restoring tiles that have lost their glaze.

[needawin]

My daughter has an apartment abroad. The tiles on the balcony are about 25/30 years old. All have lost the glaze and as a result stain easily. Is there anything clear that can be painted over them to seal them and improve the appearance. Retiling is the answer I know but is not an option.

[The Builder]

Just a guess Needy................... there are products on the market for patios. Colourless waterproofers that resist staining.......... not to be confused with coloured drive sealers.

Have a look in Wickes, B&Q etc. I would say that if it revitalises masonry, than it should be good for tiles.

[woofgang]

Good idea from the builder but if you choose a product intended for walls, think about whether it will be slippery underfoot.

[needawin]

Thanks both. Will have a look at them.

[jomifl]

You would need a UV resistant treatment. Have you considered using 'water glass' (sodium silicate) It is used as a waterproofer for cement and concrete in basements to prevent the ingress of water. It is basically glass in solution and permeates pores in masonry before becoming completely insoluble glass. It is cheap, I recently bought 20 litres from a supplier on the internet for £50 delivered to France. It is resistant to pretty well everything and allegedly there is no noticeable surface effect. If you apply more treatments than necessary you may get a glassy finish.

[needawin]

Thanks J. Will look into all.