Case 1

Introduction

Type of Building: Commercial

White streaks of deposit were spotted some distance below the hairline cracks along the external wall. These were especially prominent along light coloured walls. This defect is one of concern as it reduce the aesthetic appearance of the building.

Efflorescence is a harmless defect that is considered to be only a temporary disfigurement on new buildings that is removed by weathering agents within a year or so of construction. Even where it does return in cycles following wetter weather, unless there is a supply of salts from another source, the deposits will gradually reduce in intensity until it disappears altogether.

In new work, the extent is often related to the amount of rainwater that enters the structure during the construction process. Post construction efflorescence will always occur where percolating water affects the materials. Salts will be taken into solution and deposited on the edge of the damp-affected area.