What is Efflorescence on cladding and how to get rid of it?
Efflorescence is a common issue that can affect the appearance of cladding, leaving unsightly white marks or stains on the surface. If you've noticed white marks or white stains on cladding or brickwork, you're likely dealing with efflorescence. This can detract from the visual appeal of your home or building, but fortunately there are a couple of ways to deal with it, without needing to replace the cladding.
In this blog post, we’ll explain what efflorescence is, why it occurs on cladding, and how to remove it to restore your cladding's appearance.
What is Efflorescence?
Efflorescence refers to the white, powdery deposits that sometimes appear on the surface of cladding, brickwork, or masonry. These white marks on cladding are formed when water travels through the material, dissolving water-soluble salts. When the water evaporates, it leaves behind the salts as a white, chalky residue.
Efflorescence is particularly common on porous materials, including some types of cladding.
While efflorescence itself is not harmful, it can negatively impact the aesthetics of your property. The white stains on cladding can be particularly noticeable on darker materials, making your building’s exterior look less polished.
Why Does Efflorescence Occur on Cladding?
Efflorescence typically occurs in wet conditions when water enters the cladding system. Here are the primary reasons why efflorescence on cladding develops:
Moisture Penetration: When water enters the cladding, either through rain, condensation, or poor drainage, it dissolves salts found naturally in the material or surrounding mortar. As the water moves through the cladding and evaporates, the salts are left on the surface as white marks.
Porous Materials: Certain materials, such as brick, stone, and fibre cement cladding, are more porous than others, allowing water to pass through more easily. Fibre cement cladding, for example, can be prone to efflorescence if not correctly installed.
Poor Installation: Incorrect installation can lead to moisture being trapped behind or within the cladding. Not allowing enough ventilation stops airflow and stops the fibre cement cladding boards from drying out, leading to efflorescence.
How to Get Rid of Efflorescence on Cladding
Fortunately, removing white stains on cladding caused by efflorescence is usually straightforward. Here’s how you can get rid of it and restore the look of your cladding:
1. Dry Brushing
The first step to removing efflorescence is to dry brush the affected area. Use a stiff, dry brush to scrub away the white marks on the cladding. This method is effective when the efflorescence is newly formed and has not penetrated deeply into the material. Be sure to use a non-metallic brush and be very careful not to scratch/mark the cladding, especially on darker colours.
2. Water and Vinegar Solution
If dry brushing isn’t enough, you can use a simple solution of water and vinegar to remove the efflorescence. Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar, and apply it to the affected area using a soft sponge or cloth. Gently scrub the white stains on cladding and rinse the area with clean water afterward. This method is effective because vinegar helps dissolve the salts.
3. Commercial Efflorescence Cleaner
For more stubborn cases of efflorescence, you may need to use a commercial efflorescence cleaner. These cleaners are specifically formulated to remove salt deposits from cladding and masonry surfaces. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and be sure to test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage your cladding.
4. Full Fat Coke
Yeah, you read that correctly. If you are having issues with efflorescence a great way to remove it is washing full fat coak over the affected area. The sugar and chemical mix in coke removes the natural salts from the surface of the cladding.
How to Prevent Efflorescence on Cladding
While removing efflorescence can be relatively simple, it’s always best to take preventive measures to stop it from occurring in the first place. Here are some tips for preventing efflorescence on cladding:
Correct Installation: Ensure that your cladding is installed correctly, with correct ventilation in place. This will prevent water from becoming trapped behind the cladding due to poor airflow and causing efflorescence. If you are concerned about your cladding installation please get in touch and we can advise.
Adequate Ventilation: Good ventilation helps to reduce condensation and moisture buildup in the cladding system. Ensure that your property has adequate ventilation to minimize the chances of water being trapped and causing efflorescence. Keep any plans or shrubs growing around the base of the cladding maintained so they don't cause any blockages to the airflow.
Efflorescence is a common and natural occurrence that can lead to white marks on cladding or white stains on cladding, but it’s not something to worry about structurally. Understanding why efflorescence happens and how to remove it will help you maintain the appearance of your cladding and keep your building looking its best.
By using simple removal methods such as dry brushing or a vinegar solution, and by taking preventive measures like correct installation and ventilation you can keep your cladding free from unsightly stains.
For more information on cladding maintenance and to learn about the best products for protecting your home from efflorescence, contact us today!