Replies

1. 
   Shep | Nov 19, 2004 04:04am | #1

      First, is it really thinset or is it mastic. You can tell the difference- thinset is like a cement, and mastic looks kind of like a heavy glue/ construction adhesive.

      However, both are a pain to remove. If its mastic, soak the tiles in hot water with some dish detergent mixed in. That'll help soften the glue. Then use a heavy scraper ( I like a 5-in-1 painter's tool ) and scrape the mess off.

     If its thinset, there's no way I know of to soften it. You'll just have to try scraping the tiles as best you can. Just be careful- you can crack a tile if you press too hard.

     Good luck, and have patience. It can be done, but it's a real pain. If at all possible, you shoild try to find some new matching tiles.

     Oh, and I like to make up a jig to hold the tiles to make it easier. Just a piece of plywood and a couple thin strips of wood for stops makes hanging on to the tile much easier.

1. 
   FastEddie1 | Nov 19, 2004 07:28am | #2

   If the thinset is attached to the tiles, use a belt sander with a coarse grit, and do it outside.  Only takes a second.  If it is stuck to the floor, you can work at it with a grout saw.

    Whenever you are asked if you can do a job, tell'em "Certainly, I can!"  Then get busy and find out how to do it.  T. Roosevelt

2. 
   alwaysoverbudget | Nov 19, 2004 07:37am | #3

   easy way, lay it down in middle of driveway,take a 22 oz eastwing ,strike in center ,go to next one! lol  this can be  a fun job try everything thats been mention,if that don't work i use a 4.5 grinder with a 24 grit disc and start grinding. you willwant to be outside no matter what. have fun larry