DESCRIPTION

Crusty, white salt deposits, leaches from the mortar or masonry as water passes through it.

Efflorescence is often seen as a site fluffy deposit of salt crystals on cementations wall surfaces. It depends on the presence of salt and moisture. The growth of crystals will continue as long as both are present. The salts are present in the mortar, blocks, or concrete structure, and the moisture is usually attributable to some building defect. When emanating from mortar in brick or block building, effervescence will appear as narrow bands corresponding to mortar joints.

POSSIBLE CAUSE

• Failure to adequately prepare surface by removing all previous efflorescence.
• Interior moisture escaping through the exterior masonry walls.
• Exterior moisture driven through the wall by wind and rain.
• Basement wall that are mot properly sealed against ground moisture penetration.
• Insufficient curing time for new comment or mortar.

SOLUTION

• If excess moisture is the cause, eliminate the source by repairing the roof, cleaning out gutters and downspouts, and sealing any cracks in the masonry with a quality caulk or sealant.
• If moisture is originating inside the building consider installing vents or exhaust fans, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas.
• If moisture is being driven through the walls from the outside, apply a waterproofing coating to the outside.
• Remove the efflorescence and all other loose material with a wire brush, power brush, or low-pressure washing and then thoroughly rinse the surface.
• If the surface is highly alkaline, wash with a mild solution of H&C concrete Etching Solution or Muriatic Acid.
• Painting should be delayed if efflorescence continues.

SYSTEM

INTERIOR

• Primer, if needed Prep Rite Masonry Primer
• Filler, if needed Loxon Block Surface
• Caulk Pros elect 123A, 1100A, or Kitchen & Bath
• Finish Refer to our Interior Paint Rating Chart to determine which product best fits your needs.
• Suggested Finishes Cashmere, Super Paint, ProClassics, H&C Block Shield.

EXTERIOR

• Primer, if needed Prep Rite Masonry Primer
• Filler, if needed Loxon Block Surface
• Caulk Proselect 123A, 1100A, or Kitchen & Bath
• Finish Refer to our Interior Paint Rating Chart to determine which product best fits your needs.
• Suggested Finishes Loxon, Conflux, Scholastic, Duration, Super Paints, A-100.