Key takeaways
- Efflorescence is salt left by moving water
- It is common on new brick and usually fades
- Clean gently and test first
- Fix the water source so it stays gone
What it is
Efflorescence is a white, powdery deposit of salts on the surface of brick, stone or concrete. Water moves through the masonry, dissolves salts and leaves them behind when it evaporates.
It is common on new brick in the first year, as construction moisture dries out. It can also show up later when water keeps getting into a wall.
Is it harmful?
The salts themselves are usually harmless to look at, but they show that water is moving through the wall. If that water continues, it can lead to spalling, mortar loss and staining.
Efflorescence on new work often fades on its own in a few months. On older walls, it often calls for a hunt for the water source.
Getting rid of it
Dry brushing and a gentle rinse remove light deposits. Stubborn salts may need a mild cleaner, tested on a small area first. Harsh acids and high pressure can damage brick and mortar.
Then fix the cause, whether it is a leaking gutter, missing flashing, a cracked crown or poor drainage. Otherwise the white will return.
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Quick answers
Will efflorescence come back after cleaning?
It will if the water source is still there. Once the leak or drainage problem is fixed, the salts run out over time.
Can I pressure wash efflorescence off?
A gentle rinse is fine. High-pressure washing can strip the brick face and blast out mortar, so brushing and low pressure are safer.
Ready to talk it through? Get a free estimate or call 615-431-3789.