Efflorescence is a common problem for brick or stone surfaces in St. Louis, Missouri. It often appears because of moisture issues. Most masonry surfaces are susceptible to efflorescence. The severity of white salt deposits may vary, but efflorescence can appear on almost any masonry surface due to water-soluble salts within the material. It is not difficult to remove efflorescence if you use the methods described in this article. Although not harmful in itself, efflorescence can be unsightly and indicate potential moisture issues that need to be addressed. For homeowners facing issues with deteriorating mortar joints or brickwork, our trusted St. Louis tuckpointing team is a great way to restore the integrity of your brick homes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean and prevent efflorescence on brick, ensuring your surfaces remain in good condition.
What is Efflorescence?
Efflorescence is a white, powdery substance found on materials like brick and concrete. It happens when salts in the material are brought to the surface by moisture. While it’s not harmful in itself, efflorescence is often a sign of moisture issues that could potentially lead to more severe damage, like crumbling or deterioration of the surface.
What Causes Efflorescence to Appear?
Efflorescence forms when water gets into brick or masonry and dissolves salts. As the water evaporates, it leaves the salts on the surface. There are multiple reasons why this happens:
Water-soluble salts:
Salts like calcium sulfate, sodium carbonate, and potassium sulfate are commonly found in materials like mortar, grout, and concrete. When water passes through these materials, it can dissolve these salts and carry them to the surface, where they form the efflorescence crystals. Bricks and stones are porous and absorb a tiny amount of water which is where the salts are.
Moisture:
Excessive moisture from leaks, poor drainage, or humidity can cause efflorescence to appear. This moisture infiltrates porous materials, dissolving salts and bringing them to the surface as it evaporates. Regular chimney repair and masonry work can help safeguard your surfaces from this issue. If there are any compromises in your brickwork, it can allow water to seep into your home, causing all sorts of problems.
Capillary action:
Water can move upward through porous materials due to capillary action, pulling dissolved salts with it. This upward movement can lead to efflorescence formation on the surface.
Cold temperatures:
In colder climates, freeze-thaw cycles can exacerbate efflorescence. When water freezes, it expands and pushes salts to the surface, where they crystallize as the water thaws. St. Louis weather is well known for having the harsh temperatures that allow efflorescence to form. Not only do we get a brutal summer, but we also get an even colder winter.
How to Remove Efflorescence from Brick
Removing efflorescence is not difficult. Follow these simple steps to clean your brick surfaces. You can purchase all of these materials at your local building supply shop. The important thing is to fix the problem that is allowing water to enter in the first place. There are a few methods you can use depending on the severity of the stains.
Stiff Brush
Use a stiff brush to sweep the area and remove the powder. Wear a dust mask for safety.
What you will need: Stiff scrubbing brush.
Application:
Prep: Get your stiff brush ready and make sure the outdoor wall is completely dry.
Brushing: Use your stiff brush and start scrubbing to remove efflorescence from the brick.
Clean-up: Make sure the bricks are clean and all the salt deposits are gone.
Water Rinse
For larger areas or rougher surfaces, a water rinse works effectively. Use a garden sprayer or pressure washer to spray water onto the surface and rinse the efflorescence away. If using a pressure washer, ensure that the nozzle has the widest angle to prevent damage to the surface. If you use too high pressure, it can crack the brick and destroy your masonry joints.
A lot of St. Louis homes in Soulard and Lafayette Square are around 100 years old, and have brittle bricks and mortar joints which can be easily damaged.
What you will need: Garden hose or bucket of plain water, and soft bristled brush or sponge
Application:
Wet the surface: Get the effected area wet to allow the efflorescence to soak it in.
Scrub brick surface: Use your soft bristled brush or sponge to gently scrub the area to loosen up the salt.
Rinse off bricks: Use your garden hose to wash away all of the loose salt and make sure it completely clean.
Let it dry: Let the brick surface dry completely.
Vinegar Solution
If you prefer a non-chemical solution, diluted white vinegar is an excellent alternative. Mix one part vinegar with water and apply the solution to the affected area. Allow it to soak for a short period, then scrub with a stiff bristled brush. Try to not let the brick surface dry. Maintain constant moisture throughout the process for optimal results.
Mixture: 1 part white vinegar and 5 parts water.
Application:
Apply mixture: Using a sponge or soft bristled brush, apply the solution to the porous surface and let it soak for a couple of minutes.
Scrub brick Surface: Gently scrub the brick surface until the efflorescence dissolves.
Rinse off bricks: Use a garden hose to remove the vinegar solution.
Let it dry: Allow the sun to evaporate the water.
Chemical Cleaning (Optional)
If the efflorescence is stubborn, you may want to use a chemical cleaner. Muriatic acid, diluted with water, can be used for tougher stains. Be sure to presoak the brick to prevent the solution from penetrating too deeply.
After applying the cleaner, thoroughly rinse the surface with clean water to remove all residual chemicals, as these can erode the masonry if left behind. It might need a little scrub with a bristle brush to loosen any stubborn salt deposits.
What kind: Make sure it is meant for masonry and specifically designed for efflorescence removal. Look at some local stores that sell efflorescence removal cleaners.
Application:
Inspect the Label: Follow the instructions from the manufacturer to remove efflorescence.
Apply Cleaner: Follow the directions to remove efflorescence by applying it to the affected area. Sometimes it tells you to dilute the solution before using.
Scrub brick surface: Gently scrub the brick walls to activate the cleaner.
Rinse off bricks: Use a garden hose to rinse off the commercial cleaner completely from the brick surface.
Let it dry: Allow the surface to dry completely and inspect the results afterwards.
Always Test First
Before using any cleaner, always test it on a small, unnoticeable area to ensure it won’t damage the surface. This is especially important when using chemical cleaners or vinegar solutions. Try to exercise precaution when using these methods. These methods are suggestions and should be tailored to your specific needs.
How to Prevent Efflorescence
Preventing efflorescence is easier than removing it. The key is to stop moisture from entering your masonry in the first place. If you discover damaged brick during the process, brick repair is the best way to resolve that issue and restore the integrity of your masonry. Maintain your brickwork with regular mortar joint repairs to prevent water from causing efflorescence. Here are some effective ways to prevent efflorescence from forming:
Using a Surface Sealer:
Applying a surface sealer can help protect masonry surfaces from moisture. These sealers create a barrier that prevents water from entering the material, reducing the risk of efflorescence. It allows water to repel off the brick surface, clogging up all of the pours of your masonry surface.
Using a Vapor Barrier:
A vapor barrier placed between the masonry and the ground can help keep moisture from seeping into the material. This is particularly important in areas with high humidity or where the ground is prone to moisture accumulation. Seek professional help before building any masonry structures so you don’t run into future problems.
Ensuring Proper Drainage:
Good drainage is essential for preventing moisture buildup around your foundation. Make sure that gutters, downspouts, and drains are clear and direct water away from the foundation. Landscaping should also be graded to prevent water from pooling near the walls. Seeling up any cracks in your brick or stone foundation will also help. Don’t be afraid to seek out the help of a professional landscaper or mason to help you with these projects.
Tools to Remove Efflorescence on Brick Surface:
Just like any project, there are tools that will help make your life a lot easier. This is a basic list of tools and solutions that are perfect for getting rid of that stubborn efflorescence buildup. Here’s a small list of tools you’ll need to remove efflorescence from your brick surfaces:
Garden Hose
A simple garden hose is great for rinsing away efflorescence from smooth surfaces. For rougher areas, you may need more pressure, in which case a pressure washer is more effective.
Stiff Brush
A stiff-bristled brush will help you scrub the efflorescence away. Look for one with firm bristles to get into the crevices of the brick or mortar.
Efflorescence Cleaner
An efflorescence-specific cleaner or diluted vinegar can be used to remove more stubborn stains. It can help break down the efflorescence to make the cleaning process much quicker and more effective.
Protective Gear
Don’t forget to wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a dust mask, especially when using chemical cleaners or working in dusty environments. Your health is important and following safety protocols are the best way to keep you safe.
FAQs on How to Remove Efflorescence from Brick Walls
Can efflorescence reappear after cleaning?
Yes, efflorescence can return if the moisture problem isn’t resolved. Once the source of the moisture is identified and fixed, efflorescence should not reappear. After you clean your masonry surface, continue to keep an eye on it to ensure it is completely fixed. If not, it may be time to reach out to our team and schedule a free estimate.
Will efflorescence harm my brickwork?
Efflorescence itself doesn’t harm the brickwork but does reveal the presence of water infiltration. The water can cause issues, such as mold build-up, damage to masonry materials, and brick spalling.
Do I need to remove efflorescence every time it appears?
Efflorescence can be removed when it’s visible, but it’s more important to address the underlying moisture problem. If you leave it unchecked, the problem may worsen over time.
When should I call a professional?
If efflorescence keeps coming back after cleaning, or if you notice any other signs of foundation damage, it’s time to call a professional. A foundation expert can assess the issue and recommend solutions to stop the moisture from entering your walls.
Final Thoughts on How to Remove Efflorescence from Your Brickwork
Efflorescence, while often an eye-catching issue, is not typically harmful to your brickwork if addressed promptly. By understanding what causes efflorescence and how to remove it, you can maintain the aesthetic and structural integrity of your masonry surfaces. Regular maintenance, including sealing, ensuring proper drainage, and repairing damaged mortar joints, can go a long way in preventing efflorescence from reappearing. If you’re dealing with significant damage or persistent efflorescence, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. With the right care, your brick surfaces will continue to thrive, free of unsightly stains and more durable than ever.
