QUESTION

How do I remove rust on a Tile? - I acid cleaned a deep rust stain on white ceramic tile. It was so deep that the sealer and sheen are gone and it is now porous. I am afraid products will yellow or darken the tile. What should I use??

ANSWER

ANSWER - I understand you had a rust stain in ceramic tile, which is odd to have any rust on a ceramic tile other than on its surface.  It isn't unusual to have rust within a natural stone.

It isn't clear if this is an unglazed tile (same material top to bottom) or a glazed tile (glass like coating on the surface).  Sounds like you have a glazed tile and the acid dissolved or etched the glaze surface, so the more porous clay body is exposed.

You shouldn't use acid to clean ceramic tile.  The only time you can is if it is a mild solution and you are trying to remove a cementitious haze.  There are other cleaners and poultices that can be used to remove rust stains.  For a list of manufacturers of cleaners go to our website at www.CTaSC.com and select Expert Answers, Resources and then select Cleaners and Sealers.  Good luck.