Reduce Efflorescence on Concrete Floors Using Auseal Sealer

While concrete floors are highly durable and attractive today, they can still develop efflorescence that negatively affects their appearance. Its powdery nature shows up on any type of concrete but is more noticeable on coloured concrete. Experts have experimented with different ways to remove this issue, and also how to reduce its occurrence over the years. As a result of their efforts, we have the following information to share about this common problem with concrete flooring to help you with your own version of it.

What Is Efflorescence on Concrete Floors?

Efflorescence occurs when water-soluble salts and other substances rise to the surface of unsealed concrete floors. Moist conditions and low temperatures are the main causes for this problem. As the salts and other materials dry, they form a white powdery layer on the concrete’s surface. This layer dulls the appearances of the concrete and therefore, is undesirable.

How to Remove Efflorescence?

If you catch this issue before it combines with carbon dioxide, it is easy to remove. You can pressure or hand wash the concrete floor and scrub it if necessary. Ensure that you thoroughly rinse the floor with clear water. Use a wet vac to remove any standing water. Once the floor dries, repeat the process if any residue remains. When efflorescence has been on the concrete floor for a long time, you will need to wash it with a mild acid solution to remove it fully and then, rinse thoroughly and allow it to dry.

How to Reduce the Occurrence of Efflorescence?

The main way to reduce the risk of efflorescence is to seal the concrete with a high-quality sealer, such as the EC25 Sealer from Auseal. On top of reducing this issue, this sealer has excellent UV stability and water resistance, which means that it can be used on the exterior as well as interior concrete flooring. Other benefits of this sealer include that it has low tyre marking capabilities and is suitable for not only concrete, but it is also ideal for slate, terracotta and brick floors. To apply it, the entire surface of the concrete needs to be free of all oil, grease, dirt, dust and other unwanted elements. Acid washing is the best way to accomplish this along with a thorough rinse of clear water. Once the concrete is completely dry, apply the sealer with a roller, airless sprayer or broom. Do not walk on the floor until the sealer is dry.

Turn to our company, Auseal, to learn additional facts about reducing efflorescence with an application of our sealer. At the same time, ask about our other protective coatings.

Optimized by: Netwizard SEO