Efflorescence in construction is a common type of plague that happens in both new and old buildings. The white and powdery substance starts forming on the walls of the houses. This can also form on concrete, masonry, and other building materials and this leads to structural concerns for the builders. This is a phenomenon that can occur when soluble salts that are dissolved in water try to migrate through pores of the materials used in building like concrete, brick, and stones. It remains on the surface of the material and eventually, the water migrates.
The composition of the salts that deposit on the wall’s surface includes calcium, magnesium, potassium sulphates, and carbonates. These components are commonly found in the construction materials and the environment surrounding them. Understanding the causes of efflorescence, prevention techniques, and its remedies can help builders easily construct buildings. This article deals with providing information on the causes, prevention, and remedies surrounding it.
See also: What are stirrups in construction?
What are the causes of efflorescence?
The causes that result in efflorescence while construction is as follows:
Intrusion of moisture
The moisture content present is the key factor that leads to efflorescence in construction while developing. The water that needs to migrate from the building finds the pores of the surface leading to deposits and flaky-like substances on the walls. The water that may enter through cracks might contain salts which deposits on the surface of the walls in the home. This can happen in any building whether it’s old or new.
Fluctuations in the temperature
The fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels in the regions are the reason for efflorescence in the buildings. The temperature should remain constant or should not fluctuate as much to avoid efflorescence in the buildings. As the water tries to escape the wall’s surface, it leaves behind a mix of salts on the surface which crystallise over time.
Poor construction practices
Another reason for the efflorescence in the buildings is the poor techniques used by the builder during the construction of the property. Some things like not mixing the concrete properly, usage of low-quality material, and the techniques used are poor and not authorised can create efflorescence in the properties.
How to prevent efflorescence in properties?
Efflorescence in construction can be prevented using the following techniques:
Usage of standard quality materials
Builders should keep in mind to use only standardised quality material while building a property to prevent efflorescence in construction. The choice of materials matters the most as this can prevent or lead to water storage through cracks and pores. Only high-quality and low-porosity materials should be used to retain the water content.
Proper curing of the materials
The curing of the materials and concrete should be done properly using proper techniques. The proper curing of the concrete can help in minimising the moisture content retaining water in the buildings ultimately preventing efflorescence in the properties.
Proper space for drainage
There should be proper space and area for drainage so that water is not absorbed through cracks in the properties. Implementation of an adequate drainage system should be installed while constructing the building. Builders should keep this in mind to prevent efflorescence.
What are the remedies so that efflorescence can completely fade away?
Efflorescence removal is a challenging task, and one should use proper techniques, and high-quality material and create enough space for water drainage. The remedies that can prevent efflorescence are:
Dry brushing
Whenever efflorescence appears on the walls of the building, the best way is to use a dry brush to remove it from the walls. This needs to be done without harming the actual walls underneath the plague. Efflorescence can cause serious structural damage to the buildings and should be removed immediately once spotted.
Washing with water
It can also be removed by gently putting in water and washing the walls. The salts deposited on the walls are washed away or dissolved slowly. High-pressure washing should be applied when removing the efflorescence from the walls.
Cleaning with chemicals
In severe cases, where efflorescence has damaged a major part of the surface, it is advised to clean it with the chemicals. Vinegar or diluted muriatic acid can be used to remove the plaque from the surface.
FAQs
What is the primary cause of efflorescence in construction?
The primary factor that causes efflorescence is the chemicals that react with water present in the environment while constructing.
How to remove efflorescence from bricks?
To remove efflorescence from the bricks, you can use a stiff brush, or rinse it with water or chemical cleaning.
Is efflorescence a defect?
Yes, efflorescence is considered a building defect as low-quality materials are used or a proper drainage system is not put in place.
What reduces efflorescence?
To reduce efflorescence you can store the materials off the ground and cover them with waterproofing sheets.
How efflorescence can be treated?
Most efflorescence can be removed through dry brush and splashing water on the surface.
What is the best acid to remove efflorescence?
The best acid is the hydrochloric acid.
Is brick efflorescence harmful?
No, efflorescence is not harmful to human touch but should not accumulate on the surface for a longer time as it plagues the structure of the building.
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