Cleaning Fireplace Surrounds

Does anyone have tips on cleaning the original tile around a Victorian gas fireplace? I think the tiles are glazed porcelain, but I don’t know. Given the tiles age and the shine, I figure anything too caustic might destroy the tile – thoughts welcome on that. The surrounds each have spray paint, tape residue and old varnish on them. Two example pictures attached. Any help appreciated!

avanvoor

in Brownstoner Renovation 10 years and 6 months ago

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jaystreet | 10 years and 6 months ago

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Acetone, lacquer thinner, water, green scotch brite, GoofOff, copper parts brush, plastic puddy knives [NO METAL], heavy duty rubber gloves are excellent to have on hand or a combination of depending on the age, condition, etc. I find household cleaners other than X-14 Professional ineffective. “The right tools for the job bring the right results.”

catboot | 10 years and 6 months ago

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Our tiles had a bunch of varnish on them (from a sloppy mantel refinishing job). Used a combination of Mr. Clean Magic Eraser and a metal putty knife to scrape it off. It was a relatively easy clean up job. As for the surround, ours was painted so I’ve been stripping it with Peel Away 1\.

Guest User | 10 years and 6 months ago

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It’s hard to see any visible dirt on the tiles in the photo though there does appear to be some whitish residue so maybe that’s what you’re talking about. Anyway, you can use soft scrub or even Ajax, like you would on your bathroom tiles. Some people mix baking soda with water to make a paste and lots of people swear by white vinegar. I cleaned my fireplace tiles with warm soapy water and used a toothbrush where they needed extra elbow grease. I don’t know about the surround, but I look forward to other people’s posts about that.