How to undercover original hearth with least amount of damage?.

[Coles]

I have discovered the orignal hearth is sitting under a new set of tiles.

Is there a way to remove the new
tiles and cement with the least amount of damage to the original tiles?

I see some of the original tiles are cracked but I'm really not bothered about that, just excited to see the original.

Thanks

 

[Coles]

Actually it was much easier than I expected as the tile adhesive just crumbled.

But on two tiles it just won't come off, I have tried warm water and it doesn't want to budge.

 

[Cubist]

There a slightly risky approach I've used with similar challenges that may be worth a try using a bolster chisel or an old wide bladed wood chisel. Position the cutting edge of the chisel on the surface ion the tile and in contact with the material you want to remove. Holding the chisel at a shallow angle almost parallel to the tiles surface use a mallet to firmly strike the chisel with the aim of fracturing the grip of the adhesive to the tile. Be careful not to let the chisels direction of travel when struck go downward into or toward the body of the tile.

 

[Coles]

There a slightly risky approach I've used with similar challenges that may be worth a try using a bolster chisel or an old wide bladed wood chisel. Position the cutting edge of the chisel on the surface ion the tile and in contact with the material you want to remove. Holding the chisel at a shallow angle almost parallel to the tiles surface use a mallet to firmly strike the chisel with the aim of fracturing the grip of the adhesive to the tile. Be careful not to let the chisels direction of travel when struck go downward into or toward the body of the tile.

Thank you. During my attempt of trying to remove it the tile has come away in one piece. So I wouldn't be able to do your suggestion now. I was thinking maybe I can leave in a cup of water or something.

 

[Cubist]

Soaking it may be your best option but you may need to leave it for a few days. If you have any loose lumps of the adhesive put one of these in the water too - it'll give you some clues as to how absorbent it is and how quickly it softens sufficiently to allow easy removal.