A few major differences between efflorescence and mold growth: Mold grows, efflorescence doesn't. Mold can grow on just about any surface, whereas efflorescence doesn't spread. Mold is a fungus, whereas efflorescence is moisture that evaporates into salt deposits.
Efflorescence itself is not a health problem. However, it is an indication of the building's failure to properly manage water. Therefore, if efflorescence is present, there is a significant chance of mold growth or other moisture issues may be present.
Efflorescence forms on inorganic building materials, while mold forms on organic substances. However, it is possible for mold to consume dirt on brick or cement. Efflorescence will dissolve in water, while mold will not. Efflorescence is almost always white, yellow or brown, while mold can be any color imaginable.
It is common for people to confuse mold with efflorescence. Efflorescence itself isn't dangerous or harmful. It can lead to potential moisture problems that can cause structural damage to building materials.
Most people confuse secondary efflorescence with mold because it looks like a white, dusty mold growing on your concrete. However, it is not mold but rather an indication of a water problem at hand—and where there is water, there is mold and potential structural damage.
Ultimately, efflorescence itself isn't dangerous. However, it can lead to potential moisture problems that can cause structural damage to building materials. That means if you find efflorescence in the basement or on concrete and other structures, it's important to take action.
In fact, it's a normal and natural occurrence that can happen in any cement-based product. In many cases, efflorescence will disappear on its own over time (usually after the first year of a paver or retaining wall installation).
This form of efflorescence generally lasts around two to three years and fades naturally as the salt supply decreases. Salts are carried to the surface of concrete or brickwork by hydrostatic pressure or osmosis/evaporation, and deposited when the water evaporates, resulting in this type of efflorescence.
It's a type of salt deposit caused by salty water which seeps through concrete, brick or stone. When the water evaporates, it leaves behind a white crystalline substance that looks like white mould. Unlike white mould though, efflorescence does not pose any health risks and won't grow or spread.
By sealing with a penetrating concrete sealer, concrete is hardened up to 45% and efflorescence is eliminated. Since humidity can affect efflorescence, it has been shown that it can be a seasonal problem with efflorescence being most common during rainy seasons.
Unlike mold, efflorescence isn't normally harmful to human health, but it can cause mild irritation if inhaled or if it comes in contact with the eyes. Even so, efflorescence doesn't usually float freely in the air as dust. Pressurized water can dissolve efflorescence and clean away the mineral deposits.
While efflorescence is a cosmetic issue that won't make you sick, it is a sign that something is going on with your moisture management. Leave it to linger a little longer and moisture will start manifesting in other ways.
The reason high humidity can cause efflorescence, is because high humidity leads to condensation forming on the masonry surfaces. Condensation causes beads of moisture to form on the cool surfaces and is absorbed into the porous cement. Remedy For Excessive Humidity: Buy a good dehumidifier for your basement.
Efflorescence occurs when water soluble salts travel to the concrete surface. The mineral salts might be a result of the cement hydration reaction or can come from many other sources like sulphate rich sand. Porous concretes, masonry and mortars will be more susceptible to the migration of salts to the surface.
The truth is that a dehumidifier does nothing to counter or reverse the effects of efflorescence on your crawl space walls.
Mildew and mold are both fungi, but mildew is not as invasive or troublesome as other types of mold. Typically found in wet areas, mildew looks grayish-white and may turn brown. It's flat and powdery and it's an easier fungus to clean because it lives only on the surface of a material (such as bathroom tile).
Once the water source is eliminated, most efflorescence (also called Calcium Carbonate or limestone) can be removed with abrasive techniques. Dry brushing, light water blasting or light sandblasting followed by flushing with clean water. In large areas, rotary scrubbers with scrubbing pads may also be used.
Vinegar and water solution—Efflorescence can be removed by using a dilute solution of household white vinegar and water. A vinegar and water solution is relatively inexpensive, non-toxic, and easy to obtain, mix and apply. Dilution ratio is 20–50% vinegar in water by volume.
WHEN WILL EFFLORESCENCE FORM? Efflorescence may appear immediately or within a few months of product casting, but since precast concrete decreases in porosity as it cures, efflorescence is much more of a short-term condition here than in concrete masonry construction.
Do I need to remove efflorescence before applying a sealer? Yes. Pavers must be clear of efflorescence before applying a sealant.
Mold grows, efflorescence doesn't. Mold can grow on just about any surface, whereas efflorescence doesn't spread. Mold is a fungus, whereas efflorescence is moisture that evaporates into salt deposits.
Since chloride salts are highly soluble in water, rain will often wash them off. The amount and character of the deposits vary according to the nature of the soluble materials and the atmospheric conditions. Efflorescence is particularly affected by temperature, humidity and wind.
Concrete efflorescence is a serious problem. These white spots are not harmless and are a sign that it's time to take care of your concrete. Rest assured, every problem has a solution. Before any renovations that could damage your garage floor, check out our handy little guide on efflorescence.
Unless something else is done, the efflorescence will be back soon. In order to prevent it, you'll need to: Eliminate soluble salts for your concrete or masonry, and/or. Prevent water from transporting soluble mineral salts to the surface.