Here is another AFTER image. What a difference!
We removed the plastic cover from the planter.
The entry way looks much better without the unsightly rust stain.
There was not much space between the planter and the wall, as you can see in this AFTER image.
This BEFORE image shows where the planter leaked, causing a rust stain on the tile floor.
Here is another BEFORE image. We covered the planter with protective plastic.
Here is another image taken during the restoration process.
This image was taken during the restoration process. Some of the rust had been removed.
Leaky Planter Caused Rust Stains
A custom home builder had the misfortune of a metal planter in the entry way of their design center developing a leak. Since the planter was made of metal, the leak caused a rust stain on the porcelain tile floor. The builder’s property management company fixed the planter pot to prevent further issues, but they felt that removing the rust stain from the tile without causing any damage to the tile was something that would be best left to a professional tile restoration contractor. They contacted us, and we assured them that we could completely remove the stain without causing damage to the tile.
Our Tile Rust Stain Removal Process
The client instructed us to work around the heavy planter, which would have been very challenging to move.
First, we masked the protected the planter to prevent any damage from chemical splatters. We used a soft bristled brush and professional rust cleaner to remove most of the rust. To remove the remaining rust, we switched to a diluted acid cleaner. Since acid cleaners can etch porcelain, we had to be careful to not allow the product to dwell long, and we followed up immediately with a neutralizer.
The property manager and builder were relieved that the tile in the entry way would not need to be replaced and that their show room could once again give prospects and customers a positive first impression.
To learn more about our tile and grout services, visit our Tile and Grout Services page.
