Efflorescence

Category: science

A white, powdery crystalline salt deposit formed on the surface of masonry when internal water evaporates.

Efflorescence requires three elements: soluble mineral salts inside the block or mortar, water to dissolve those salts, and a path to the surface. As the interior water migrations reach the open air, the fluid evaporates, leaving behind a chalky white stain that requires acidic cleaning.

Common Examples

• The sudden breakout of chalky white efflorescence across the front masonry skin indicated a serious internal water leak behind the veneer.
• Using clean, washed sand aggregates within your field mix drastically minimizes the baseline risk of recurring efflorescence breakouts.