Have you ever seen a white powdery or fluffy substance on the surface of concrete, brick, or cement block? That’s efflorescence and it’s actually a common occurrence on the surface of masonry structures.
So what causes efflorescence? And is there anything you can do to prevent or remove it?
In this 3-minute read, you’ll get everything you need to know. Let’s get started.
Efflorescence is a crystalline deposit left on the surface of concrete, mortar, cement block, and brick. It forms when moisture combines with soluble salts in the masonry. When that mixture reaches the surface and evaporates, it leaves a white, grey, or sometimes green salt deposit.
So what actually causes this to happen?
Here are four common causes of efflorescence.
Improper construction methods are one of the leading causes of efflorescence. A poorly constructed building can quickly let moisture go places where it shouldn’t. Then, that excess moisture combines with the salt compounds, comes to the surface to evaporate, and leaves behind efflorescence.
As buildings age, moisture can start to penetrate the structure in critical areas. This is especially true if you live in an area with extreme temperatures. Frequent freeze/thaw cycles and heavy rain can slowly cause problems, especially with softer materials like grout and mortar joints. Even damaged chimney flues can allow condensation to seep into the chimney brick.
High-quality materials will be less likely to allow moisture penetration. Concrete that has been properly vibrated and tamped will have fewer capillaries that could allow water to penetrate it. Denser blocks will prevent water penetration. And most high-quality bricks have additional substances added to neutralize some of the salts.
This is extremely important for more than just preventing efflorescence. It will help protect the rest of your home as well.
Salts are present in most materials like concrete, grout, mortar, portland cement, sand, and bricks. But better materials often have fewer active salts that can cause efflorescence. Go with washed sand. Buy high-quality bricks and blocks that are denser. Choose low-alkali mortar and higher-strength concrete.
So if you’ve already started to notice some concrete efflorescence, what can you do to remove it? Here are three things.
#1: Clean It With a Brush and Water
Before getting out the heavy duty concrete cleaners, start with some good old clean water, a scrub brush, and some elbow grease. If needed, you can even add a little baking soda to your brush to improve its scrubbing power. Scrub the surface and then rinse with clean water.
PRO TIP! – A pressure washer can also help remove efflorescence. Just be careful using it on old or damaged masonry since it can actually damage it.
If the surfaces still have stains, move on to step two.
#3: Store-Bought Efflorescence Cleaner
A ready-made chemical cleaner like Foundation Armor Concentrated Concrete and Brick Efflorescence Remover and Cleaner is one of the easiest ways of removing efflorescence from concrete. Just follow the instructions on the cleaner you buy to dilute and apply it.
Efflorescence on concrete may be a sign of more serious issues. So if you start to notice it on your wall or floor, it’s best to get it checked out right away. Do that and you’ll minimize the possibility of more serious structural damage to your building.
Need a professional to come take a look? Live in the Garland, Dallas Texas area?
Give us a call today at A&X Masonry. We’d love to come out, help diagnose the problem, and then work with you to find the best possible solution.