Understanding Efflorescence

Written By Leah LeitowPublished on 04/2/2021Updated on 10/3/2024

Have you noticed a white, flaky substance on your basement walls? This is called efflorescence. While it isn’t mold, it means there’s water present in your basement.

In this article, we’ll answer the question, “What is efflorescence?”

The answer is quite simple, so we won’t waste your time—let’s jump right in.

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What Is Efflorescence?

efflorescence and mold on a basement wall

Efflorescence is a naturally occurring, white powdery deposit that appears on cement-based building materials. It is a crystallized mineral salt that forms when water is present on concrete, bricks, stucco, stone, and other building surfaces.

Efflorescence occurs when moisture evaporates through the porous concrete walls of your basement, leaving behind salt deposits that look like a white, powdery substance.

While efflorescence is a cosmetic issue that won’t make you sick, it is a sign that something is going on with your moisture management.

You can prevent costly basement repairs and other undesirable effects by resolving the moisture issues promptly.

Removing Efflorescence & Waterproofing

Cleaning

To tackle efflorescence effectively, it’s essential to adopt a two-pronged approach: cleaning and addressing the root cause. First, let’s talk about cleaning:

Scrub with a Brush and Detergent: For minor cases, simply scrub the salts away with a household detergent.
Use a Pressure Washer: For more stubborn efflorescence, pressure washing can be effective. Ensure you dry the walls thoroughly afterward.
Chemical Treatment: For persistent problems, commercial cleaners may be necessary, often requiring a professional application.

Invest in Professional Waterproofing

Once your basement is free of efflorescence, the next step is to waterproof it:

Install Capillary Breaks: Adding a vapor barrier between your basement walls and soil can prevent mineral diffusion into building materials.
Basement Waterproofing: Comprehensive waterproofing solutions, like interior drains and sump pumps, to keep your basement dry.
Proper Landscaping: Redirect water away from your foundation through effective landscaping to prevent infiltration.

What’s Next

In this post, we answered your question about efflorescence. Efflorescence is a white, powdery residue on masonry surfaces caused by water-soluble salts migrating to the surface.

There’s a lot more to know, so in the next article, we answer the question, “How to Keep Your Sump Pump from Failing You?” If you need basement waterproofing, Foundation Recovery Systems offers a quick, easy, and completely free inspection. Just click the button below to get started!

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FAQs

Will efflorescence go away on its own?

In some cases, efflorescence may disappear naturally over time due to weathering. However, if the underlying moisture issue remains unaddressed, efflorescence is likely to recur.

Is efflorescence more common in certain climates?

Yes, efflorescence is more common in climates with frequent rainfall, high humidity, or significant temperature fluctuations that can cause condensation.

How do I remove efflorescence?

Efflorescence can often be removed by dry brushing followed by washing the surface with clean water. For more stubborn cases, a mild acid wash may be necessary. However, it’s crucial to treat the moisture problem for a lasting solution.

Leah Leitow

Content Writer

Leah is a Content Writer for Groundworks with more than ten years of experience working in the foundation repair industry. Her experience ranges from working with homeowners to find the right solution to training inspectors and staff. In her background as a Michigan journalist, she gained invaluable insight into people's lives throughout our state. Leah lives in metro Detroit with her husband and two sons.

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