Expert Advice on How-to Remove Efflorescence | Behr

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
What Product Do I Need?
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 uncoated and previously coated concrete surfaces.
Required product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
$0.00
The following product(s) is required to properly prep uncoated and previously coated concrete surfaces. 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 a topcoat clear finish is desired.
$0.00
The Home Depot logoSold Exclusively at The Home Depot