Common issues for exterior surfaces
Home / Mould and Mildew / Burnishing / Poor Stain Resistance / Cracking and Flaking / Peeling / Efflorescence / Exterior Mould / Blistering
Possible Causes
Efflorescence is the formation of crusty, white salt deposits, leached from mortar or masonry as water passes through it.
- Failure to adequately prepare surface by removing all previous efflorescence
- Excess moisture escaping through the exterior walls from the inside.
- Rising damp in walls where damp courses are damaged, inadequate or non existent, or have been inadvertently bridged, eg: by raised garden beds.
Solution
If excess moisture is the cause, eliminate the source by repairing the roof, cleaning gutters and downspouts and sealing any cracks in the masonry using a quality water-based all-acrylic or siliconised acrylic caulk. Damp course problems may require professional assistance.
- If moist air is originating inside the building, consider installing vents or exhaust fans, especially in kitchen, bathroom and laundry areas.
- Remove all efflorescence and loose material from the masonry with a wire brush or power brush.
- Apply a masonry sealer and allow it to dry completely; then apply a coat of an ultra premium quality exterior house paint or masonry paint.