01/06/2021
Construction Matters With CBCC
In this fast-changing world, it is more becoming imperative for property owners to know more about their property. From this background, our team of experienced and professional experts will be sharing pressing construction issues every Tuesday.
This week’s inaugural update will dwell on the most common building defect; Efflorescence.
Geez!!!................................What Is It????
Efflorescence is a crystalline deposit of salts that can form when water is present in or on brick, concrete or other building surfaces. It has a white or greyish tint and consists of salt deposits left behind when water evaporates. Additionally, it can appear as a powdery substance on floors and walls and requires special care to treat.
Oh Really!!!......................What are the Causes????
You may notice efflorescence both indoors and outside, and it can vary in frequency and intensity due to moisture and temperature. Causes;
- Water-soluble salts.
- Moisture must be available to transform salts into a soluble solution.
- Salts must be able to move through a material to its surface. The moisture will then evaporate and cause the salts to crystallize, resulting in efflorescence.
Additionally, various building surface installation problems may lead to efflorescence;
- Incorrect use of through-wall flashing
- Use of masonry without sufficient ventilation
- Use of masonry in areas that lack a proper moisture barrier
Umm!!!.............How to Spot It????
It is very critical to understand the differences between efflorescence and stains. Stains usually come in various colors but may appear similar to efflorescence at first. Efflorescence is a white, powdery substance that can be found on unsealed surfaces, including:
- Brick
• Since it is a porous material, brick may absorb soluble salts.
- Cement
• Portland cement represents the key contributor to efflorescence in mortar and grout, it is high in alkalis and is more likely to efflorescence than other types of cement.
- Lime
Lime is water-soluble and can react with unbuffered hydrochloric acid to produce calcium chloride that may migrate to a building material’s surface.
- Sand
• Sand is used in mortar and grout and is not water-soluble. On the other hand, sand can be contaminated with a material that can contribute to efflorescence.
Welllzzz!!!............Preventing It???
Solutions;
- Hydrophobic Sealant
• Applying an impregnating hydrophobic sealant to a building material surface can prevent the absorption of water. The sealant also will stop water from traveling within a building material.
- Capillary Breaks
• Installing capillary breaks such as polyethylene sheeting between a building material and soil can minimize the risk of salt entering the material.
Alright now!!!.....................What’s Next???
Best ways;
- Pressurized Water
• Applying pressurized water may dissolve efflorescence quickly. If you use water, dry off the water from the building material after application. If you fail to remove the water, crystals may remain that can cause efflorescence to reappear.
- Diluted Vinegar
• If you’re in a pinch, using household diluted white vinegar can be used.
- Brushing
• With a strong brush, you can remove efflorescence with ease.
Yes……That was so simple!!!!...... Onto next Tuesday.
