Deposition of salts on masonry surfaces. Crusty white salt deposits, leached from mortar or masonry as water passes through it.

Causes:

• Appear on new brick, plaster or cement as they dry.
• Improper curing.
• Failure to adequately prepare surface by removing all previous efflorescence.
• Excess moisture escaping through the exterior masonry walls from the inside.
• Alkaline bricks

Solution:

• The source of moisture must be repaired before any paint preparation.
• If excess moisture is the cause, eliminate the source, sealing any cracks in the masonry with sand and cement.
• If moist air is originating inside the building, consider installing vents or exhaust fans, especially in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry areas.
• Remove the efflorescence and all other loose materials with a wire brush, power brush or power washer; then thoroughly rinse the surface.
• Apply a coat of Wall Sealer and allow it to dry completely; then apply a coat of top quality exterior paint.