How To Remove Efflorescence From Stone

It is essential that you understand which stones can be treated in order to remove efflorescence and which cannot. Read the following and Contact Us, including pictures please, if there are any queries and make sure you do small test areas. This is YOUR responsibility.

What is efflorescence? In the case of natural stone it is a water soluble mineral salt that moves up through a stone in solution. As the solution reaches the surface of the stone the water evaporates and leaves the mineral salt behind. The mineral salts form a white residue that can be difficult to remove without the correct knowledge and products.

The mineral salts often originate from within the stone itself. In this case it is a finite issue and, once removed, is unlikely to recur more than once or twice.

The mineral salts can also originate from the cement (mortar) under the stone which can cause a longer term issue. However, in almost all circumstances it is possible to remove and it will stop after a while.

Important. In order to remove efflorescence you need to use a phosphoric acid based product. You must not use acidic products on acid sensitive stones.

Do not use standard brick or patio cleaner as this is likely to contain hydrochloric acid which can be disastrous and all stones.

As a general guide, most sandstones, slates and granites can be cleaned as described below but it remains your responsibility to do the required test areas.

If you are unsure about the type of stone you have or require assistance please Contact Us and include some pictures of your issue.

For removal of Efflorescence from acid resistant stones use Builderase. Full instructions are on the product page which you must read. There is a link to our recommended tools and equipment on the product page.

For removal of Efflorescence from acid sensitive stones you can try Powerase. Note that it may be difficult to achieve the desired results but we are usually successful. Full instructions are on the product page which you must read. There is a link to our recommended tools and equipment on the product page.

If you are concerned that you are not able to identify your stone you should test on spare stone and / or Contact Us and include some pictures of your stone.

Always do a small test area first. After rinsing and allowing to dry make sure there is no change to the colour of the slab.

Please refer to full product instructions on the product page.

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