Preventing Alkali Stains ...a quick tip for community associations

Efflorescence is that unpredictable white salt deposit that seems to attack the walls like a disease. It appears on cement or plaster surfaces and is caused by moisture entering or contained within the substrate. Water soluble salts within the masonry leach to the surface where the water evaporates, leaving a whitish salt residue. Defects which contribute to this problem must be corrected before any painting is attempted.

To prevent efflorescence (or alkali as it is often called), adjust sprinklers so that the spray is directed away from the wall and do not over water your lawn or plants. Damages to the walls, whether yours, the neighbor's, or the Association's, caused by over watering or any such other actions caused by you could become your responsibility to repair.

The salts are water soluble and will often disappear after washing or dry blasting, then flushing with clean water. Stubborn deposits can be removed with a solution of 1 part muriatic acid to 12 parts water. Be sure to dilute the muriatic acid solution you buy. Strong acid solutions can bleach and disintegrate colored mortar or block. Rinse surfaces with clear clean water to remove any remaining residue.

There are also water repellents that can be applied to the wall to prevent alkali. Fabrishield and Endur-O-Seal are two name brand products. Endur-O-Seal is environmentally friendly and is non-toxic and non-hazardous.

  Association Times' Staff Writer