What is cellar efflorescence and what can you do about it?

You may want to finish your basement, and as you examine the room, you will notice a whitish bloom over your unsealed brick or concrete basement wall. It can appear as light white dust over a small area of ​​your basement wall, or it can present itself as a thick, mold-like structure that covers a good portion of your wall. By the end of this article, you will have all the knowledge you need to properly address the efflorescence in your basement. Read on to see if your basement needs a simple repair, or if it’s attention-getting one experienced cellar entrepreneur.

What is efflorescence?

The efflorescence in the basement is made up of mineral deposits that are left on your walls as moisture evaporates. Brick and concrete are porous, and if not properly sealed, moisture from the outside can get in through the brick. Salts like calcium carbonate or minerals used in building bricks and concrete like limestone and clay are water soluble and can dissolve in this creeping moisture. When this mineral-rich solution reaches the wall surface, the water evaporates, leaving the minerals behind.

Look at your climate

If you live near an ocean, your bottom will be salty. You are more likely to have these mineral deposits if your basement is not properly treated. It is also possible that rock salt, which is heavily used in slow-loading areas in winter, can get through your basement walls. You should consider the region you live in to determine whether your basement is at risk or not.

Is it more than just an eye sore?

As mentioned earlier, the efflorescence is not toxic. It cannot harm your body. However, its presence is an indicator that your basement is prone to moisture. If left untreated, your basement can be opened up to mold and structural damage.

Ask a professional

You should consider contacting a knowledgeable and experienced basement contractor. They can tell you if the efflorescence in your basement is not a cause for concern or if it is an indicator that your basement’s moisture management system is poor or non-existent.

How do I remove efflorescence?

If the efflorescence is not significant, you should be able to use water, a detergent, and a good scrub to remove the debris. You can wash the structure with electricity for external efflorescence. You don’t want to just use water, however, as the water will evaporate and leave the debris behind.

If you have a significant buildup, there are a variety of chemical treatments ranging from non-toxic to highly acidic and dangerous. These can remove more stubborn and stubborn deposits. However, contact a professional to deal with the hazardous chemicals if needed for work.

Prevent blooming

If your basement is prone to efflorescence, you should definitely consider getting your basement sealed. This is especially necessary if you are planning to finish your basement.

Do not numbers for a renovation without properly sealing your basement from the outside elements! You put your investment and property at risk. There are several different types of effective sealers that you can use depending on your budget.

Epoxy sealers

This is the preferred sealant for concrete walls. This type of seal is more effective than the cheaper acrylic sealers. If you are serious about waterproofing your basement, you shouldn’t use acrylic seals.

Penetrating seals

Unlike epoxy and acrylic sealers, which form a moisture-resistant barrier on the surface of the wall, penetrating sealers fill the porous holes. These sealers are the most effective, but they are also the more expensive option.

Prepare yourself!

You now have the knowledge and experience to tackle the efflorescence in your basement. Please remember to consult a professional if you have any concerns In front You begin to finish your basement. Otherwise, time and money can be wasted!

Good luck in all your efforts to complete the basement!

Jennifer Bell is a freelance writer, blogger, dog lover, and avid beachgoer from southern New Jersey. She writes for Dry Basement Solutions.