Bricks on Your House Turning White?

Efflorescence is a condition that often happens to brick masonry in which a whitish film appears on the bricks. This is caused by water-soluble salts in the masonry materials that are brought to the surface of the bricks surface once the water evaporates. Often times you will see this in new construction.

Fear not, it can easily be remedied with some time and the right products. Basically you have two choices: masonry cleaning and etching preparation or a solution containing muriatic acid. The type of brick you have on your home will decide whether muriatic acid is an appropriate choice. Homes with glazed or light-colored brick are not well suited for acid solutions. Red brick homes and darker colors should be tested with the solution in an inconspicuous area first.

When purchasing an acidic cleaner for your home, make sure you read the instructions in detail and understand them clearly. Often times, you will need to soak the brick with water before acid washing. This also includes a thorough rinse. To prevent efflorescence from reappearing, you will need to seal the brick surface with a clear, water-resistant sealer. There are pigmented sealers available which can give your exterior a richer sheen is you so desire.