Homeownership invariably comes with its share of surprises and challenges. If you’ve been peering into your basement only to wince at the sight of ugly white deposits on your floor, you have met efflorescence. Before you despair, let’s demystify efflorescence and look at how to address it, turning your basement floor paint back into a clean and efficient space.
Efflorescence is defined as the loss of water from the crystallization of a hydrated salt into the atmosphere upon exposure to air. To explain it in simpler terms, it’s when evaporated salts and other minerals from curing concrete develop into a powder-like substance due to high moisture in the air. It looks much worse than it actually is, as the structure of the concrete floor isn’t damaged at all. The streaky-looking white stains tend to stay on the concrete, and if left for a long period of time will become harder to remove. Keep reading to learn about efflorescence removal on a concrete basement floor.
If you find this problem on your basement floor, there are usually three prime reasons why it has occurred. Firstly, there must always be water-soluble salts present. Then, after that, there must be moisture of some kind present that will transform the salt into a soluble solution. Lastly, if you find efflorescence on your basement floor, it’s due to the fact that salts have been able to move through the material to its surface. The moisture will eventually evaporate and cause the salts to crystallize, which is why efflorescence occurs.
Likely, when you find efflorescence on your basement floor, it is a seasonal weather issue. Maybe you’ve had some water get into your basement. Or perhaps there’s condensation that forms in the winter months. There could possibly be some foundation issues. Whatever the reason is, it’s safe to say that there is cause to investigate.
Materials That You Will Need For Efflorescence Removal:
Remember that safety always comes first when dealing with efflorescence basement floor. Equip yourself with safety glasses, gloves, and a mask to protect against any dust or chemical exposure during the cleaning process.
Using a towel, wipe away the water from the floor and let dry. You have successfully removed efflorescence from a concrete floor!
HINT:
You can use the same steps listed above to remove efflorescence from concrete basement walls as well.
Preventing efflorescence is all about controlling moisture:
Conclusion
Efflorescence on your basement floor might look unappealing, but with a few tools, some elbow grease, and appropriate preventative measures, it doesn’t have to be a permanent sight in your home. By removing existing efflorescence and working to limit moisture in your basement, you can safeguard your basement from future efflorescence outbreaks and maintain a clean, functional basement for you and your family to enjoy.
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Armed with the knowledge of how to remove efflorescence from a basement floor you no longer have to fear that powdery residue! If you would like some help with this, though, call Home Painters Toronto! Contact us NOW at 416-494-9095 or email [email protected]. And don’t forget to follow us on all our social channels below!
