We recommend using PROTECTiT Efflorescence Remover which is suitable for use on natural stone, brick or concrete products.
An acidic cleaner, such as PROSOCO's Sure Klean Light Duty Concrete Cleaner, and Sure Klean Vana Trol can dissolve efflorescence more effectively.
As stated previously, most efflorescing salts are water soluble and many will disappear with normal weathering unless there is some external source of salts. In general, most efflorescence can be removed by dry-brushing followed by flushing with clean water.
We recommend cleaning with MDR, which stands for Mineral Deposit Remover. (If you are not sure if your granite or slate resists acids, try placing a very small amount of diluted MDR in an inconspicuous area to make sure or call your installer.) Use MDR as directed with a soft brush to remove the calcium build up.
Efflorescence is a white substance caused by natural occurring salts found in gravel, soil, cement, water and sand. These salts can then travel in water to the surface of your natural stone leaving behind the crystalline deposits.
The acidity in the vinegar helps remove the efflorescence and calcium deposits by breaking down mineral crystals. After cleaning the surface, let dry for 48-72 hours (moisture content below 25%).
Vinegar and water solution—Efflorescence can be removed by using a dilute solution of household white vinegar and water. A vinegar and water solution is relatively inexpensive, non-toxic, and easy to obtain, mix and apply. Dilution ratio is 20–50% vinegar in water by volume.
Efflorescence Remover Starts Working Straight Away
On surfaces suffering from heavy contamination, the product will quickly start to 'fizz' as it dissolves the salts. It can be re-applied at any time, but always remember to wash it away and rinse down surrounding areas.
A: Yes. We recommend using a 50/50 solution (equal parts of CLR Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover and warm water.) Apply solution to the affected stained areas of the windows using a damp cloth or sponge.
Efflorescence is removed by natural weathering processes - as rainwater is slightly acidic, it gradually dissolves and washes away the deposits. The process may also be assisted by warm dry weather when the deposit is blown away.
Natural Stone Disclaimer
Ice-melting salt, other ice-melting products and Muriatic Acid cleaners can permanently damage stone. We recommend that you DO NOT use these products on or near natural stone.
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.
Just as it appears naturally, efflorescence will eventual- ly disappear. Over time, rainwater can wash and wear it away. In urban areas with acidic rainfall, efflores- cence may go away faster than in rural areas.
Efflorescence alone does not pose a major problem, but it can be an indication of moisture intrusion, which may compromise the structural material. Building materials, such as concrete, wood, brick and stone, are porous materials. Porous materials can absorb or wick water by a process called capillary action.
And that is to add 1/2 cup of baking soda to one gallon of water. Mix the baking soda into the water and apply it to your stones. This will totally neutralize the muriatic acid. Rinse the stone with water and you're done.
It is common for people to confuse mold with efflorescence. Efflorescence itself isn't dangerous or harmful. It can lead to potential moisture problems that can cause structural damage to building materials.
To start the maintenance process, you can use a solution of regular dish soap and water along with a stiff plastic scrub brush. Avoid using a wire brush, as it can dislodge wires and create rust marks on the surface.
If you have natural stone tiles anywhere in your house, avoid cleaning them with vinegar, lemon, or ammonia. The acidity in the products etches and dulls the stone, says Elena Ledoux, owner of Superb Maids in Las Vegas, Nevada. To repair, it will require a very expensive re-polishing process.
What you should Not Do: Don't use vinegar, lemon juice, or other cleaners containing acids on marble, limestone, travertine, or onyx surfaces. Don't use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners, or tub & tile cleaners. Don't use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers.
Did you know that the white, powdery tint on brick and stone has a name? Yep. It's Efflorescence. This substance is a deposit of salts which form if water is present.
Efflorescence occurs when water soluble salts travel to the concrete surface. The mineral salts might be a result of the cement hydration reaction or can come from many other sources like sulphate rich sand. Porous concretes, masonry and mortars will be more susceptible to the migration of salts to the surface.
But if you wall has a high salt content, the efflorescence could develop again and again. The first thing to do is to take steps to keep water off of the wall as much as possible and see what happens. Consider a penetrating sealant that is specifically made to prevent efflorescence.
Clean stone surfaces with warm water and a mild soap such as a clear Dawn Liquid Soap. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids on marble or limestone.
It mixes nicely with lemon, vinegar, and water for cleaning purposes, and is safe for use on any surface, including tile, ceramic, porcelain, slate, marble, granite, and stainless steel. Borax is a great DIY cleaner and here are 10 easy ways you can use it.