How to remove adhesive from reclaimed slate

[Thingley]

I've just bought a large quantity of 30cmx30cm Chinese slate tiles. They are reclaimed having been previously fitted to the walls of a shop. The surface is in really good condition but the back is a nightmare.

The slates were fitted using large dollops of adhesive. I believe it is a flexible compound as the guy who sold the slates told us to make sure we used some ourselves.

It's grey and looks like pumice stone, the surface is white but that may be from the wall it was removed from.

The tiles need to be clear as they are going down on top of electric underfloor heating in my kitchen, hall, utility etc.

I've been attacking them with a hammer and bolster. It's slow work. Any suggestions on a more painless way of getting the stuff off?

Many thanks

 

[tpt]

theres no easier way really - apart from using an SDS drill with a chisel bit.

Dont lay them using dabs whatever you do.

 

[Thingley]

I had a nasty feeling that might be the answer! Thanks

 

[jctilingservices]

use a grinder with diamond tipped blade, wont take too long to do, but make sure you do it out doors, as the dust will be everywhere.
As TPT said, do NOT dot and dab your slate,

 

[Whirlpool365]

Would an acetylene blow torch or simillar be worth a go? along with a standard paint scraper??

This might be a massive no-no... if not sure you could try it on one tho!

 

[jctilingservices]

Would an acetylene blow torch or simillar be worth a go? along with a standard paint scraper??

This might be a massive no-no... if not sure you could try it on one tho!

its a massive no no no mate

 

[Thingley]

Just wanted to say many thanks for the angle grinder tip. Takes 3 mins to clean the slate and no breakages which is a distinct advantage over the bolster method which took ages. There is a hell of a lot of dust and noise though so best outdoors when there is no-one around.