Can CLR remove efflorescence?

Author: Marshall Luettgen  |  Last update: Tuesday, June 3, 2025

We were told a diluted CLR solution would work. We tried this and it was a lot of work to scrub the surface clean of the residue and you have to be sure to rinse immediately because technically CLR is not for painted surfaces.

Will CLR work on efflorescence?

You can remove efflorescence relatively easily with high water pressure (spray) or with acids such as muratic acid. Products such as CLR or Lime-Away can work too if used with water and a brush... These will keep moisture from seeping through the wall and evaoporating, leaving behind efflorescence.

What is the best chemical to remove efflorescence?

You can remove efflorescence relatively easily with high water pressure (spray) or with acids such as muratic acid. Products such as CLR or Lime-Away can work too if used with water and a brush... These will keep moisture from seeping through the wall and evaoporating, leaving behind efflorescence.

How to remove efflorescence permanently?

Once the water source is eliminated, most efflorescence (also called Calcium Carbonate or limestone) can be removed with abrasive techniques. Dry brushing, light water blasting or light sandblasting followed by flushing with clean water. In large areas, rotary scrubbers with scrubbing pads may also be used.

How do I get rid of calcified efflorescence?

First, for very mild cases of efflorescence, try a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water. Using a scrub brush, spot treat and scrub affected areas with the vinegar mix. The acidity in the vinegar helps remove the efflorescence and calcium deposits by breaking down mineral crystals.

Front Nine Restoration Efflorescence removal in progress…

What is the best solution for efflorescence?

A stiff scrubbing brush and a dry brushing technique will remove the efflorescence. Muriatic acid can be used for efflorescence removal, but it poses risks such as discolouration and potential surface damage. Consider safer commercial solutions.

What is the best chemical to remove calcium deposits?

Calcium lime rust remover (CLR): CLR is a popular choice for removing calcium buildup. It's a powerful cleaner that can dissolve mineral deposits, including calcium, lime, and rust.

How do I stop efflorescence returning?

Clear water repellents, silicone and acrylic coatings also may help you remove efflorescence as well. The coating will absorb water across a masonry surface and prevent efflorescence from recurring. Plus, the combination of warm water and white wine vinegar has been shown to eliminate efflorescence.

What chemical cleaner is good for efflorescence?

Smartseal Brick Acid Cleaner - Easy To Apply Effective Brick Cleaner Solution For Exterior Brick Walls and Masonry Surfaces - Removes Efflorescence, Dirt, Grime & Limescale (5 Litres)

What additive prevents efflorescence?

Efflock. Efflock is a high-performance, water-based, VOC-free, liquid additive designed for the bulk impregnation of cement-based building materials to protect against efflorescence and dampness. By controlling water absorption, efflorescence is locked and the potential for waterproofing failure is dramatically reduced ...

Will efflorescence eventually stop?

In all but very extreme cases, efflorescence will stop as capillaries in the stone become blocked by crystallized salts. Once the process stops, the white deposits will eventually wear off with use and exposure.

Will simple green clean efflorescence?

Clean your garage floor first by sweeping to remove dirt, leaves, grass clippings, dead bugs, efflorescence, etc. Apply Simple Green Oxy Solve Concrete and Driveway Cleaner. Mix 2 cups of Simple Green with 1 gallon of warm water in a separate container. Scrub.

Can you scrub off efflorescence?

Using a water-dampened sponge or garden hose, wet the area to be cleaned. Apply the cleaner and etcher solution to the area with a sponge or pump sprayer. Using a scrub brush, lightly scrub the area to remove the white powdery residue from the surface.

What happens if you leave CLR on too long?

If CLR Grease & Oil Remover is left on a surface for too long it begins to dry and can be very difficult to remove.

What is the best acid to remove efflorescence?

Muriatic acid is the standard way to remove it—muriatic acid basically being diluted hydrochloric acid. There are other efflorescence cleaners out there that can provide you with similar results, but they may be costly and perhaps not readily available, while muriatic acid more than likely will be.

How long does CLR take to dissolve calcium?

Apply directly to the stain with a brush, cloth or sponge. After 2 minutes rinse promptly with cold water. Never leave Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover on an area for longer than two minutes. If the stain does not disappear, repeat this process and add more Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover solution as necessary.

Can I use CLR to remove efflorescence?

A: While our CLR Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover (in the grey bottle) is safe to use on concrete & effective in removing efflorescence, we recommend using a 50/50 blend of CLR and warm water solution, pick an inconspicuous SPOT TEST AREA FIRST (to see if there will be any chemical reaction between our product and your ...

What is the most effective efflorescence remover?

When dealing with stubborn efflorescence and cement stains on your stone surfaces, HR Efflorescence & Cement Remover stands out as the most effective solution. This product is meticulously designed to tackle tough stains on various surfaces, ensuring your outdoor and indoor spaces look pristine.

How do I permanently get rid of efflorescence?

Removing efflorescence – three strategies
  1. Stiff brush. On some smooth surfaces, you may be able to use a stiff brush. ...
  2. Water rinse. On other surfaces, rinsing with a garden sprayer or pressure washer can dissolve efflorescence, allowing it to run off. ...
  3. Chemical cleaning.

Does vinegar remove efflorescence?

Vinegar is extremely effective against removing efflorescence from any surface, whether it be interlocking pavers, concrete pavers or bricks. You also do not have to worry about rinsing dangerous acids into the soil around your pavers.

What is the best sealer for efflorescence?

In these cases, water repellency is critically important. In these situations, use LastiSeal Brick & Concrete Sealer for an unbeatable 15-years of protection, or go for DryWay Water-Repellent Sealer, which is a DOT approved silane/siloxane water-repellent. Efflorescence is a very common and controllable condition.

Will Drylok stop efflorescence?

If you see a white powdery substance (as you will see below), it is natural salts present in the masonry and is the biggest enemy of any waterproofing job. The white powdery substance is efflorescence, and you want to neutralize it with DRYLOK Etch which is much safer than muriatic acid.

What is the best product to break up calcium deposits?

CLR PRO Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover - Quickly Removes Calcium, Lime, Hard Water Deposits and Surface Rust Stains, 32 Ounce Spray (Pack of 2) This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications. Made with chemicals safer for human health and the environment.

What can CLR be used for?

CLR not only removes Calcium, Limescale and Rust. The versatile solution can also effectively remove Mineral Deposits, Salt, Oxidation, Algae, Fibreglass/Gel Coat Yellowing and Soap Scum. Suitable on a large range of surfaces & usages inside and outside the home and worksite.

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