Why Use Efflorescence Concrete Cleaner?

If you are thinking to purchase Efflorescence Concrete Cleaner, you should know the causes of efflorescence so as to select the right product.

If water is present on the surface of the brick, stone or concrete then there will be a deposit of crystalline salt called efflorescence. Once the water is evaporated from the surface of the concrete, a layer of white or grey salt will be deposited on the layer. Efflorescence is also available as a powder layer on the surface of walls. It should be treated quickly and also special care should be taken for removing the efflorescence.

Causes of Efflorescence:

Efflorescence can be formed both inside and outside the surface. The frequency of formation and the intensity of the substance varies depending on the place and moisture content. The formation of efflorescence depends on the temperature of the place also. Efflorescence can be formed in three conditions. Salts which are soluble in water should be present on the surface. Moisture content in any form should be present for converting the salt into a solution which is soluble. Material for moving the salt to the surface is required. Finally, when the moisture on the surface evaporates it will result in the deposition of efflorescence by making the salts to crystallize.

The degree of efflorescence is depended on the type and source of moisture. The primary source of moisture is Snow, water and rain. Moisture generation on the surface depends on the absorption of groundwater and condensation.

It mainly occurs during construction. It can be prevented by covering the surface. Some of the other reason which will cause the formation of efflorescence is improper ventilation, material failure on the joints and problem with storage of groundwater. The efflorescence mainly occurs during the winter season and it rarely occurs during other seasons.

Normally people find it difficult to differentiate stains and efflorescence. Stains occur in different color but at the initial stage, it will look similar to the efflorescence. Efflorescence is mostly found on the surfaces which are unsealed. Some of the surfaces in which efflorescence normally occurs are brick, clay, cement, sand, trim, backings and lime. Efflorescence occurs when the building material contacts the surface of the ground. Choosing the correct material for the building will prevent the formation of efflorescence on the building surface. Some of the building material in which efflorescence normally occur are calcium sulphate, potassium sulphate, sodium sulphate, potassium carbonate, vanadyl sulphate, calcium carbonate, Maganese oxide, and sodium carbonate.

Methods to prevent Efflorescence:

Efflorescence can be prevented by various methods. It is recommended to use Efflorescence Concrete Cleaner to make the area clean and free from efflorescence. Some of the important methods of preventing efflorescence are listed below.

1. The absorption of water can be prevented by applying hydrophobic sealant on the surface. It also prevents the water from travel inside the building material.
2. Polyethylene sheets should be used between the soil surface and the building. It prevents the entering of salt from the ground to the building material.
3. Flashing, coping and eaves will protect the surface and prevent water contact.
4. Try to store the masonry material away from the ground and also cover the material with waterproof material.
5. Take immediate action to remove the efflorescence from the surface and stop the water contact.