![]() Some concrete installers will add excessive amounts of water to concrete for a more pliable product or add calcium chloride to expedite the initial cure. Soluble salts from Portland cement are dissolved and carried to the surface as bleed-water settles upward and eventually evaporates – primary efflorescence is left behind. Take for example, a new poured concrete slab. In the case of primary efflorescence, the source of the soluble mineral salt and the water to dissolve and transport the salt originates in the substrate itself. There are two basic types of efflorescence: Primary and Secondary.Įfflorescence is considered “ primary” if forms during the initial cure or manufacture of concrete and masonry products. Salt-laden water moves from the mortar into the porous brick and evaporates through the brick face, leaving efflorescence on its surface. Although efflorescence stains on red brick can be quite common, the source of the efflorescence is usually cementitious mortar. Clay brick, pavers, and low cement CMU’s present a lower risk for efflorescence, as the soluble salt content is lower. Ĭement-based substrates, like concrete, stucco, and mortar contain the highest amount of soluble salts, and therefore produce efflorescence most often. The liquid must have a path to migrate to the surface and evaporate.In order for efflorescence to form, the following conditions must exist: it is typically white, but can also be yellow or brown, depending on the type(s) of salt present. Colored or stained concrete can develop blotchy patches as efflorescence purges color pigments. It’s not uncommon for efflorescence blooms to delaminate sealers and tiles, or cause paints to bubble, crack, and peel. The word “efflorescence” actually means “to flower out”, in French.Įfflorescence often becomes trapped below topical sealers (acrylic and urethane topical sealers) and appears as a whitish blush or haze. It’s not uncommon for efflorescence to grow or bloom, forming fluffy hair-like fibers. It develops as mineral salts from inside the substrate are transported to the outside by moisture. The term efflorescence refers to the unsightly whitish deposit found on the surface of concrete, brickwork, pavers, or other masonry. ![]()
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