A homeowner in Ireland has shared her astonishing discovery of what she calls "hidden treasure" beneath the old flooring in her Victorian property, after embarking on a gruelling 11-month restoration project.
The Curious Discovery Under the Lino
Kelly Warburton, who documents her home renovation journey on Instagram under the handle @little_victorian_terrace_cork, explained she was curious about what lay beneath the worn lino in her hallway. What she initially found was disappointing: lovely original quarry tiles had been covered over with a layer of cement. Undeterred, she made it her mission to bring the historic flooring back to life.
A Labour of Love: The 11-Month Restoration
Kelly dedicated herself to the painstaking task of removing the cement, a process she described as "back-breaking work" that spanned nearly a year. "I definitely questioned my sanity at times," she admitted in a social media post. Her perseverance, however, paid off spectacularly. The restored, vibrant tiles were so beautiful they moved her to tears.
The process required specific knowledge due to the tiles' porous nature. Kelly explained she must wait for them to dry fully before sealing them. A white chalky film, composed of minerals and salt, emerges through the tile, which needs treating over several months. She plans to apply a final sealant in the spring to protect the colours permanently.
Social Media Reaction and Renovation Warnings
The reveal captivated her online followers, with the post garnering over 1,000 likes. Comments poured in praising the transformation, with one user calling it "possibly the greatest tile glow up in renovation history" and others dubbing the find "treasure." Many noted it was a wonderful tribute to past craftsmanship.
This is not an isolated incident; just months ago, another couple found something remarkable under their carpet. However, experts and seasoned renovators like Kelly advise caution. Before attempting any restoration of old flooring, it is crucial to get a professional assessment. Without proper evaluation, you risk applying incorrect techniques, worsening damage, or discovering the floor is unsuitable for restoration.
Kelly Warburton's story is a powerful testament to how determination and hard work can uncover and preserve the hidden beauty within a historic home, truly making her feel she hit the jackpot.
