Efflorescence is like white salt crystals that are created when water passes through the area. This usually occurs on mortar or masonry.
Possible Causes:
- Do not allow the cement or mortar to cure enough.
- Basement walls that are not sealed correctly against the ground moisture.
- Interior moisture that escapes through the exterior masonry.
- Exterior moisture that goes through the walls due to rain and wind.
- Did not remove all the efflorescence before reapplying paint.
Solutions:
- If moisture is causing there to be efflorescence, then repair any cracks or any source that is causing moisture to enter the area.
- If the moisture is coming from the inside, then think about installing vents or exhaust fans.
- If moisture is coming in through the outside, then apply a waterproof coating on the outside walls.
- Remove the efflorescence from the area but using a wire brush or a power wash. Then, rinse the area well.