What is the White Powder on Basement Walls?

Do you see a white chaulky powder substance on your basement concrete or block walls or floors?

This is known as efflorescence.

Efflorescence is the result of minerals dissolving as water evaporates on porous material such as your basement’s concrete or block walls and/or floors.

The deposits are not harmful to your health, but efflorescence indicates water penetration in your home.

How can water enter your home?

Water can enter your home at any point where there is an opening in the foundation. This may include around pipes, cracks in the walls or floors.

• Check the area near and above the efflorescence for leaks from pipes, windows or drains.
• Inspect the exterior of your home for low areas where water may pool
• Ensure that downspouts are draining several feet away from the home’s perimeter

If you do not discover an apparent cause of the efflorescence, or if you’re uncertain if the staining is mould or efflorescence, please contact us for a free inspection to help determine the cause and offer you a permanent solution to your leaky basement.