Efflorescence
Have questions or need advice? We can help!
With the winter snow finally melting off and early spring rains, comes the recurring annoyance of discoloration in masonry, concrete, pavers and retaining wall products.
The white film, known as Efflorescence, is normal for many concrete and masonry products and installations. It sometimes appears on the surface of brick, block or pavers. It usually is not permanent and will disappear over time. In most instances, efflorescence can be brushed off using
a stiff nylon bristle brush when it is in it's powdery form.
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 brick or block. This is Lime Run.
Lime streaks occur primarily during new construction when grouted CMU are exposed to inclement weather cycles. This weather pattern 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.
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. When you wet the surface with water, it looks as if the surface is clean, but as soon as it dries, the haze of the deposits show up again. We do have products available that aid in the removal of efflorescence, lime run and hard water deposits.
Please call us for more information on these cleaners.
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Introducing White Block's Big Rock Block
Because of the size and weight of the individual blocks, the Big Rock Block allows you to build a taller gravity wall between 6 to 10 foot heights without geogrid.
As always, walls over 4' in height may require a permit and engineering. Please check with your local municipality.
The Big Rock Block's unique design and the handcrafted face create the feel and look of natural stone. Each mold was created from real natural rock formations to get the authentic texture.
Big Rock Block is manufactured using wet cast concrete, incorporating some of the techniques used in the making of manufactured stone.
Big Rock Blocks are just that, BIG!
The Full Block is 23" tall x 48" wide x 38" deep.
The Half Block is 23" tall x 24" wide x 38" deep.
and the Corner Block is 23" tall x 48" wide with a 24" return face.
Whether your project is commericial or residential, White Block's Big Rock Block is sure to enhance and beautify your home or commercial landscaping needs.
Give us a call today to learn more about this exciting new product!
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