Is efflorescence a serious problem?

Ultimately, efflorescence itself isn't dangerous. However, it can lead to potential moisture problems that can cause structural damage to building materials. That means if you find efflorescence in the basement or on concrete and other structures, it's important to take action.

Is efflorescence a big deal?

When you observe efflorescence, it's an indication of moisture migrating through the concrete, brick or stone. In general efflorescence is not considered to be a major concern when observed around a home; however, there are a few instances when efflorescence can be serious and a warning sign of a problem.

Do I need to remove efflorescence?

Even when proper steps are taken to isolate masonry from water and salt sources, it is important to note efflorescence is a perfectly normal by-product of masonry construction because of the salts inherent in the materials themselves. After removing initial efflorescence blooms, they should not return.

Is efflorescence on concrete harmful?

Efflorescence itself isn't dangerous or harmful. It can lead to potential moisture problems that can cause structural damage to building materials. So it is important to take action when you notice efflorescence in your basement, on your paving stones, or on other structures.

Is efflorescence an issue?

In summary, efflorescence is a cosmetic issue, but it indicates a potential moisture problem. Inspectors should know the how capillary forces can cause structural damage to building materials and educate their clients about efflorescence and the potential problems it may cause.

Causes, Prevention and Removal of Efflorescence

Can efflorescence cause structural damage?

Ultimately, efflorescence itself isn't dangerous. However, it can lead to potential moisture problems that can cause structural damage to building materials. That means if you find efflorescence in the basement or on concrete and other structures, it's important to take action.

Why does efflorescence keep coming back?

If your wall started out with only a small amount of water-soluble salts within it, the efflorescence might stay away on its own after one cleaning, or only lightly return. But if you wall has a high salt content, the efflorescence could develop again and again.

How long does it take for efflorescence to disappear?

If you live in an area of frequent rain and sunny days, efflorescence and its passing may occur quickly. The process may take much longer in drier climates. Typically, efflorescence will stop developing in approx- imately 18 to 24 months.

How do you fix concrete efflorescence?

To fix the problem at this point, clean the surface with a mild acid or efflorescence remover (some manufacturers make special efflorescence cleaners) followed by sealing. To avoid the problem altogether on future projects, consider using a colored curing compound or cure and seal to match the color of the concrete.

Does efflorescence mean the basement leaks?

Does Efflorescence Mean the Basement Has a Leak? Efflorescence requires the appearance of water from somewhere in the basement. Most commonly, this water does come from a leak, typically through cracks in the walls or floor. However, you might also have an internal leak through your plumbing system.

Does sealing stop efflorescence?

Simply sealing concrete from water penetration (using a penetrating sealer) will help prevent efflorescence. V-SEAL creates an incredible water barrier for brick, mortar, and all forms of concrete. To help prevent efflorescence, V-SEAL should be sprayed anywhere brick, mortar or cement will be exposed to water.

Can I paint over efflorescence?

Any efflorescence on the surface must be removed prior to painting as it is regarded as a poor and friable base that prevents paints and coating systems from adhering effectively.

How do you stop efflorescence on walls?

In general, an ideal way to treat efflorescence is to scrape the area thoroughly or scrub it with a brush. Once clean, an epoxy based coating such as Dr. Fixit Dampguard will ensure that the inside of the wall, as well as the outside, is protected from dampness, and a repeat occurrence of efflorescence is kept at bay.

Will a dehumidifier help with efflorescence?

The truth is that a dehumidifier does nothing to counter or reverse the effects of efflorescence on your crawl space walls. This device will only help you dry out the crawl space air so moisture won't build up and cause condensation, mold growth, rust, and other problems.

What is the main cause of efflorescence?

CAUSES OF EFFLORESCENCE

Simply stated, efflorescence occurs when water containing dissolved salts is brought to the surface of masonry, the water evaporates and the salts are left on the surface.

Is efflorescence harmful to breathe?

Unlike mold, efflorescence isn't normally harmful to human health, but it can cause mild irritation if inhaled or if it comes in contact with the eyes. Even so, efflorescence doesn't usually float freely in the air as dust. Pressurized water can dissolve efflorescence and clean away the mineral deposits.

Why does my new concrete have white spots?

White stains or a white powdery coating on new concrete is not uncommon. Such discoloration, known as efflorescence, is caused by salts that are brought to the surface of new concrete by the natural curing process.

Why is my cement turning white?

As moisture absorbs into the concrete and then evaporates out, it carries calcium salts with it. When salt reaches the surface, it reacts with CO2 in the air to form insoluble calcium carbonate. This carbonate has a white appearance. Although this process is natural, it can easily be cleaned up.

Why does my cement have white spots?

Usually this white or off-white discoloration to concrete and masonry forms when soluble salts and other water dispersible materials come to the surface through capillary voids as a result of temperature changes, moist migration, condensation, rain, dew, and/or too much water in the mix.

How much does it cost to remove efflorescence?

A handyman or house cleaning service will charge $143 to remove efflorescence from a 150-square-foot area, which includes the labor and material. You can remove the substance for $20, the cost of a clear water sealer, and save 86 percent.

Does rain get rid of efflorescence?

Since chloride salts are highly soluble in water, rain will often wash them off. The amount and character of the deposits vary according to the nature of the soluble materials and the atmospheric conditions. Efflorescence is particularly affected by temperature, humidity and wind.

Does vinegar remove efflorescence?

Vinegar and water solution—Efflorescence can be removed by using a dilute solution of household white vinegar and water. A vinegar and water solution is relatively inexpensive, non-toxic, and easy to obtain, mix and apply.

How do I permanently remove efflorescence?

Spray a solution of vinegar and water on the brick and scrub it with a brush. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the surface and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then, spray the bricks with the mixture again and use a stiff brush to scrub away the efflorescence.

Can efflorescence cause mold?

Therefore, if efflorescence is present, there is a significant chance of mold growth or other moisture issues may be present. For example, while efflorescence on a garage floor will not cause a problem, the accompanying moisture can cause mold growth on items stored on the floor.

Is efflorescence a mold?

A few major differences between efflorescence and mold growth: Mold grows, efflorescence doesn't. Mold can grow on just about any surface, whereas efflorescence doesn't spread. Mold is a fungus, whereas efflorescence is moisture that evaporates into salt deposits.