What Is the White Chalky Substance on My Foundation Walls?
You just noticed a white substance on your concrete walls. A million questions start circling your brain. Is it mold? Is it toxic? Who do I call? You are unsure of the best course of action or if any action needs to be taken at all. We are here to answer your questions and tell you exactly what the white substance on your foundation wall is!
The good news is it is not toxic! It is also not mold! This white substance is called Efflorescence. It generally shows up on surfaces like concrete, retaining walls, stone and even stucco. Efflorescence is a crystalline or powdery deposit of salts. It occurs when water leaves behind salt deposits on the masonry surface. Natural salts and salt-forming chemicals can be found in materials, such as sand or gravel, used to make concrete.
So how does Efflorescence happen? There is primary Efflorescence and secondary Efflorescence. Primary is when a concrete mix is too wet. Water is required for mixing concrete but adding too much to the mix leaves behind moisture that will eventually work its way to the surface. Secondary Efflorescence can happen from seepage. Water coming in from outside of your foundation through cracks will then sweep up any salts and once dried will leave a visible white powder. This will continue to show up until the seepage problem is solved.
The next question is what can be done about it? Well, if you do not mind the unsightly look of the powder on your walls you can do nothing! It will not hurt anyone. If you are not so keen on seeing it everyday there are ways you can clean the Efflorescence powder off but it is only a temporary solution if you have seepage. If you clean it and it reappears then you may want to book a free estimate with U.S. Waterproofing and see if seepage is in fact the issue. An Advisor will come out and thoroughly inspect the problem area looking for any signs of seepage that may be causing the Efflorescence. The most common reason for seepage is foundation cracks. After any seepage issue has been resolved it is important to inspect any landscaping or gutters that might be allowing any excess water to pool close to your foundation. Since water is fluid, it will almost always find a way to enter your home if there is even the tiniest way to get in. In general, cleaning efflorescence from a surface is an ongoing solution — much like a treatment — rather than a cure. Sealing a surface might be a solution, but if water still finds its way into the surface you could end up with cracking or spalling, which is a destructive process that should be avoided.
U.S. Waterproofing is the largest basement waterproofing company in the Midwest. We are a 3rd generation family owned and operated business whose goal is to pursue total peace of mind for our customers through education, comprehensive solutions, and our wealth of experience. We offer economical solutions to almost any waterproofing need!
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