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House hard to heat?
Suffer from Mould, Mildew or bad condensation?
Suffer from Rust, Corrosion?
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| Removing Efflorescence from Masonry |
Efflorescence is, for the most part, a visual problem. Very rarely
does it cause structural problems. It is not always a simple problem
to correct. Often, the efflorescence will diminish with time.
The condition can occur on concrete as well as brickwork or masonry
surfaces. Several conditions must occur for efflorescence to appear.
The soluble salts must be present in the bricks, mortar, or
transported by water into the masonry from another source. You need
sufficient water to carry the salts, in solution, to the surface of
the masonry. Finally, evaporation must take place. This evaporation
causes the salts to come out of the solution the result is a white
crystalline deposit visual on the masonry surface called
efflorescence.
The soluble salts which cause the problem can come from varies
chemical elements or minerals. Many of these elements can be found in
the materials from which bricks are made. Also, the sand which is used
in the mortar can have significant quantities of soluble salts.
Efflorescence will in many cases cease on its own. The efflorescence
can cease if supply of soluble salt material in the bricks or mortar
becomes exhausted. It can also stop if the source of water which
dissolves the soluble salts is cut off. The process can also stop if
the water in which the salts are dissolved is prevented from getting
to the surface of the masonry.
Depending upon the soluble salt which is causing the problem, you have
several options as to removing the deposits. You can sometimes remove
the dried deposits with a stiff brush.
Sometimes water will wash the
salts from the wall. However, this process can sometimes dissolve the
salts and cause them to soak back into the wall.
Acid solutions can cause severe burns to skin and eyes. If you attempt
to try to use an acid solution, always be certain to wear complete
protective gear. Follow the directions on the acid container
explicitly. Acid solutions improperly applied can damage the masonry
surface as well.
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