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| Four Seasons Hemet Herald | JANUARY 2021 | 9 Access Control Committee During this very difficult period of our lives, let us please be considerate of our friends and neighbors, let us please drive safely, and keep within the posted speed limits of our Four Seasons Community. Wishing you all a blessed and safe 2021. Is That White Stuff On Walls Mold? Probably not mold, but efflorescence Efflorescence starts with salt. Salts are found in the ground and in construction materials. Salt efflorescence requires three elements: salt, water, and porous materials. It can occur on any porous surface, such as stucco or concrete. Typical efflorescence is white but can vary in color, including yellow or brown, depending on the salt and accompanying chemicals. Water is the second ingredient. During construction, water used in cement and mortar mixtures can start the process, dissolving salts in building materials it contacts. Water also comes from rain, sprinkler systems, cracks, gaps and the ground. Water dissolves salts and moves them to the surface of brick walls or cement foundations. As water evaporates, the salts are left behind, which you see as efflorescence. Preventing efflorescence: To address efflorescence, prevention is more effective than removal and will save time and money in the future. When installing pavers, ensure bedding material and grading allow for proper drainage. Permeable geotextiles can prevent salt absorption from the ground. Even when proper steps are taken to isolate masonry from water and salt sources, it is important to note efflorescence is a perfectly normal by-product of masonry construction because of the salts inherent in the materials themselves. After removing initial efflorescence blooms, they should not return. Efflorescence on pavers will eventually stop on its own after the salts in the pavers have dissipated. On the other hand, recurring efflorescence may indicate an ongoing problem of water intrusion that needs to be addressed before it causes permanent damage. Removing efflorescence: Surface efflorescence on brickwork is unsightly but easily remedied. There are three ways to remove efflorescence from brick, block, concrete, or pavers. The best time for removing efflorescence is when the weather is warm and dry. 1. Stiff brush: On smooth surfaces, you may be able to use a stiff brush. Because efflorescence is dry and powdery, a brush will easily sweep it away. 2. Water rinse: On other surfaces, rinsing with a garden sprayer or pressure washer can dissolve efflorescence, allowing it to run off. With a pressure washer, use the widest-angle tip that works without damaging the surface. With the rinsing method, the water may bring more salts to the surface as the substrate dries, so re-rinsing or brushing may be necessary. 3. Chemical cleaning: Brushing and pressure-washing may be insufficient on tough salt deposits. An acidic cleaner, can dissolve efflorescence more effectively. Muriatic acid is never recommended. Architectural Review Committee

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