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Removing and preventing efflorescence

• Source: http://www.essortment.com/home/removepreventin_scbl.htm
  

If your bricks or concrete have a whitish powdery substance, or a salty deposit “growing” on them, chances are it’s what is called efflorescence. The white deposits are most often associated with new brick or masonry work of some type. Luckily, efflorescence is usually harmless, and over time it will wash away.

Efflorescence is caused by water seeping or leaking into brick, block, tile, slate, stone, pavers, concrete work, limestone, marble, granite, etc. As water moves through the object, it slowly dissolves the salts contained inside. Then, the water evaporates leaving the salt on the surface. If this continues to happen over time, the build up of white deposits can be quite significant. Some surfaces are more prone to have efflorescence because they may be more porous and support water travel. Or, they may contain more water-soluble salts.

In/out moisture tends to be a frequent contributor to efflorescence. Rain and sprinklers are considered an in/out source. With in/out moisture the water only penetrates a fraction of an inch, and then returns to the surface, carrying the salts with it. Also, through moisture is another common contributing factor to efflorescence. Through moisture occurs when water enters from behind or underneath the surface due to bad flashing, caulking, or leaks. This can be a serious problem as homeowners aren’t always aware of the faulty items until a severe problem has already developed.

Because efflorescence is commonly associated with new masonry work, it will often appear and then disappear on it’s own due to weathering. If this staining is bothersome or persists, dry brushing the affected area will usually remedy the situation. For more significant accumulation, stains can usually be removed with a solution of muriatic acid and more scrubbing. You’ll need one part acid to twelve parts water. This is real acid, so attention to product instructions is necessary for your safety and to ensure its effectiveness on the efflorescence staining.

Less common efflorescence salts and staining may require heavy-duty retail products to remove stains. Reputable manufacturers of efflorescence removing compounds include Aldo, BrickClean100, and Crete Clean, as well as many others. Your local hardware store may be able to assist you in finding the product that tends to be most effective in your area or with your specific surface.

After restoring the appearance of the surface, you can prevent future efflorescence issues by applying a penetrating sealer. These penetrating sealers will work even if the water continues to come from behind or above the surface, by creating a barrier below the surface. The sealer will allow water vapor to evaporate, but prevent the water-soluble salts from migrating along with the water.

As with most things, early prevention provides the best result. Ideally, steps should be taken during construction to prevent efflorescence and the premature breakdown of the material. To err on the side of caution, it’s best to seal any type masonry work as soon as it’s constructed or soon after. If you address the problem before it exists, you are likely not to suffer from efflorescence at all.