efflorescence
EFFLORESCENCE is visible as soluble salts that form on the surface of plaster or brick work, usually visible as loose white powder or as feathery crystals.
POSSIBLE CAUSES:
- Failure to adequately prepare the surface by removing all current traces of efflorescence
- Insufficient curing time for new cement before painting
- Contamination from seawater spray or exposure of unpainted masonry to the elements for long periods of time
- Using a primer with low alkali resistance
- Failure to attend to all the waterproofing aspects prior to painting
SOLUTION:
- No remedy other than to prevent it from occurring by eliminating abnormal moisture levels in the masonry surface.
- Remedy the cause of the excessive moisture in the masonry first.
- Remove the efflorescence and all other loose material with a wire brush, a power brush, or low-pressure washing, and then thoroughly rinse the surface and allow it to dry out.
- When all traces of efflorescence have been removed, prime the affected area with Prominent Damp Cure, allow it to dry for 24 hours and apply a suitable quality topcoat
