How to Stop Effervecences on Concrete

Chalky, white, effervescent stains develop on concrete as a result of a buildup of crystallized water-soluble salts. Minerals contained within concrete emerge on the surface when concrete is unfinished and permeable to moisture. As moisture enters the concrete then evaporates, the salts crystallize on the surface, leaving cloudy blooms known as effervescence (also sometimes called efflorescence). Clean up the salt deposits and prevent them from occurring again by sealing and rendering the concrete impermeable to moisture.

Spray bottle
White vinegar
Scrub brush
Efflorescence remover (optional)
Concrete cleaner
Pressure washer (optional)
Concrete sealer
Paint sprayer, roller or lamb's wool applicator

Instructions

- 1
  Dissolve and remove the salt stains. Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and saturate light to medium stains. Allow the vinegar to soak the stains for several minutes, then scrub them away with a scrub brush. For heavy stains, use a commercial acid-based efflorescence remover.
- 2
  Rinse the concrete with water, flooding it with a garden hose.
- 3
  Wash the concrete with concrete cleaner by either scrubbing it with a scrub brush or spraying it with a pressure washer. All dirt and grime needs to be removed before sealing. After you have rinsed the concrete with water, wait until it fully dries.
- 4
  Coat the concrete with concrete sealer. Apply sealer with a paint sprayer, a roller or a lamb’s wool applicator. Do not allow the working edge to dry before making another pass to avoid lap marks. Leave the first coat to dry.
- 5
  Apply a second coat of concrete sealer. Work in the opposite direction of the first coat.

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