How to Remove Efflorescence

Image of tool showing how to remove Efflorescence. Image of tool showing how to remove Efflorescence.

Efflorescence is a white "salt-like" build-up caused when moisture moves through stucco or masonry surfaces.

For Best Results:

Remove efflorescence before recoating a surface.

Suggested Tools & Supplies
  • Hose
  • Vinyl Gloves
  • Protective Apparel
  • Pump Sprayer
  • Rags
  • Scraper
  • Scrub Brush
  • Sponge
  • Vinegar
  • Wire Brush
  • Step 1

    Using a wire brush or scraper, remove any loose or peeling paint from the damaged area.

  • Step 2

    Use a concrete and masonry cleaner and etcher to clean the surface and mix into pump sprayer.

  • Step 3

    Using a water-dampened sponge or garden hose, wet the area to be cleaned.

  • Step 4

    Apply the cleaner and etcher solution to the area with a sponge or pump sprayer. Using a scrub brush, lightly scrub the area to remove the white powdery residue from the surface.

    Tip: Allow the cleaner and etcher solution to set for 5-10 minutes. Make sure the product remains wet.

  • Step 5

    Using a water-dampened sponge or a garden hose, thoroughly rinse the surface.

  • Step 6

    Allow the area to dry.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Orange calculator icon in a white bubble

PAINT AND STAIN CALCULATOR

Inside or outside; paint or stain: Let’s figure out how much you’ll need to make amazing happen.

Calculate

ASK AN EXPERT

Every project is unique: Keep small wrinkles from becoming big problems by letting the Behr Technical Experts lend a hand.

Get Expert Help

CONNECT WITH PRO REFERRAL - POWERED BY THE HOME DEPOT

Let Pro Referral do the leg work and match you with quality local painters.

Find a Painter
CUSTOMIZE & BUY
Tahitian sky
Small Behr logoS480-5
Compare
BLACK
BLACK
What sheen do I need?
8 Oz. Sample
1 Gallon
1 Quart
5 Gallon
The following product(s) is required to properly prep and pre-treat wood prior to any stain project.
Required product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
$0.00
The following product(s) is required to properly prep and pre-treat wood prior to any stain project. Only available in store at Home Depot.
Required 3rd party product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
The 9 in. x 1/4 in. Polyester Adhesive Roller Cover has a hard texture, making it ideal for applying all types of adhesives to smooth surfaces. It can be used for stippling and applying sand paints.
The following product(s) is recommended when stripping is needed.
$0.00
The Home Depot logoSold Exclusively at The Home Depot