White's Block Talk
Have questions or need advice? We can help!
Winter Weather Brings Challenges to Concrete Masonry
The white film, known as Efflorescence, is normal for many masonry products. It sometimes appears on the surface of brick, block or pavers.
It usually is not permanent and will disappear over time.
You can normally brush off the powdery substance using a stiff nylon bristle brush.
Efflorescence is a natural occurrence from the cement hydration process.
Calcium oxide from the cement reacts with water inside the block and forms calcium hydroxide. When the Sun warms up the block, it draws the moisture to the surface bringing the calcium hydroxide to the surface, which reacts with the carbon dioxide in the air to form calcium carbonate, a whitish powdery residue.
When moisture on the surface evaporates, it becomes visible. It can usually be washed off or will wear off over time.
Not all white residue is efflorescence. Sometimes you may have a hard, crusty spot or streaking on the block.
This is Lime Run. Lime streaks occur primarily during new construction when grouted CMU are exposed to inclement weather cycles.
This moisture dissolves the free lime in the mortar. As the CMU wall dries, the free lime then migrates to the surface of the CMU block and forms crystalline lime run.
It is more difficult to remove than efflorescence. It is typically coming through the mortar joints.
Another issue is Hard Water Deposits.
Typically caused by incorrectly adjusted sprinkler heads, hard water deposits are a result of the minerals in the water being left on the surface of the block once it has dried out.
The best thing you can do is to adjust the sprinkler heads so they do not spray the brick or block.
Then you can clean the deposits.
The common denominator moisture. Water has somehow been introduced to the masonry. If you control the exposure to moisture, it will help reduce or deter the efflorescence. Sealers can help by not allowing water penetration into the subsurface of the masonry.
We do carry a line of products that aid in the removal of efflorescence, lime run and hard water deposits. These are specialized products for each one of the conditions. Please call us or come in for more information on these cleaners.
Allan Block Retaining Wall - AB Metropolitan.
It is a modern style with a smooth face and clean straight lines. We offer it in our Shadow Blend color.
The top lip and bottom notch configuration still provide the superior interlock.
It also has the same built in 6 degree set back as our other AB Classic blocks.
Installation is the same. And the modern look is beautiful!
If you are interested in more information regarding our AB Metropolitan block, give us a call!
White Block Company is a manufacturer of Concrete Pavers, Stepping Stones, Edging Materials, Allan Block Wall Systems which includes Retaining Walls & Free Standing Courtyard Walls, as well as a variety of other products that can be used in your landscape project. Call or come by Monday through Friday - 7AM to 5 PM.