Removing cement from ceramic tile?

Question

I'm trying to remove cement from the back of a ceramic tile so the tile can be used again. Any ideas?

Answer 1

sharp chissel and a block of wood. place tile on wood standing on end use sharp chisel and hit lightly with hammer. glue should pop off

Answer 2

not sure how thick the cement you are trying to remove is? if you made a jig to hold the tile steady i would think you could use an angle grinder with a masonry grinding disc. it wouldn't be too big if they are small 4x4 tiles, 2'x2' of 3/4" plywood should do. then make a frame around the tile that is as thick as the tile,1/4" plywood maybe. then just grind down 'til flush with the frame. this would be quite a dusty operation and would be best done outside. however if the cement is really just thin set mortar if you could cut shallow grooves across the back for grip for the new thin set to bond to and reinstall. this would only raise the tiles a very little and probably not be too noticeable. good luck, hope this helps, and happy holidays!

Answer 3

i've done this before and you better really want to use that tile because there is no good or easy way to do it. Figure on breaking half no matter how you do it. Tiles are cheap buy new if possible

Answer 4

Not sure if I am spelling it rightIt isn't in the check spelling) but, meridic acid should do it. I worked with a firm that added a wing on to a nursing home and that is what I had to use. Besure you are wearing rubber gloves and the acid may have to set for a few minutes. You can buy this at hardware or farm stores. Good Luck.