How to Get Rid of Scale on Cinder Block Walls

Calcium and lime scale may develop on a cinder block wall when it comes into contact with high-mineral moisture. "Hard" water — that which contains a high concentration of minerals such as calcium and magnesium — commonly causes scale. You can remove minor scale build-up with common household materials. To prevent heavy, difficult-to-remove scale, remain vigilant, routinely targeting the vulnerable area.

Gloves
Protective eyewear
Vinegar
Spray bottle
Plastic putty knife
Scrub brush
Acetic acid
Baking soda

Instructions

- 1
  Put on gloves and protective eyewear.
- 2
  Fill a spray bottle with undiluted vinegar. Spray the calcium or lime scale until it is saturated. Allow the vinegar to sit for five minutes.
- 3
  Scrape the scale with a plastic putty knife. If it does not break up, spray it again and let it sit for another five minutes. If the scale still does not break up, apply acetic acid, available at hardware stores, to the scale (vinegar is a diluted form of acetic acid, so it's OK to mix them). After you've scraped away as much of the scale as possible, spray the area again.
- 4
  Scrub the remaining scale residue with a scrub brush.
- 5
  Rinse the cinder block wall with water.
- 6
  Make a paste of 2 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Scrub the wall with the paste, using a scrub brush, to neutralize the acid.
- 7
  Rinse the wall again with water, and allow it to dry.

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