Why Does Granite at the Entrance Retain "Non-Evaporating Watermarks"? Causes and Solutions

In the image, the granite at the entrance of a luxury house exhibits "non-evaporating watermarks", with some areas extending up to 30-40 cm high on the pillars. These are not typical water stains but a classic example of efflorescence in stone. 🪨✨

What Is Efflorescence? 🧐

Efflorescence occurs when soluble salts in construction materials (e.g., cement, tile adhesive, and sea sand) migrate into the stone through capillary action. When water evaporates, the salts crystallize on the stone’s surface, forming stains that are difficult to remove.❌

Common Causes 🔍

1. Construction Material Issues

   • High Alkaline Content:
     Materials like cement and tile adhesive often contain high levels of calcium hydroxide and other soluble alkaline salts (e.g., sodium, potassium). These dissolve in water and migrate to the stone's surface through capillary action, sometimes rising 30-40 cm high (as shown). 📈
   • Low-Quality Materials:
     Inferior grout or mortar may contain untreated alkaline components.❗

2. High Humidity Environment 🌧️

   • Groundwater Seepage: A lack of proper waterproofing or a damp foundation leads to prolonged moisture exposure, accelerating salt migration and crystallization. 💧

3. Failed Waterproofing 🛡️

   • Degraded Waterproof Layers: Previously applied waterproof layers can fail due to aging or improper installation, allowing soluble salts to enter the stone via capillary action, resulting in efflorescence. ⚠️

How to Solve the Problem? 🔧✅

1. Use Professional Additives 🧪
   Add Hanshi 130 Anti-Efflorescence Additive to the construction mortar. This additive, when mixed with cement and fine sand, effectively locks alkaline substances, preventing efflorescence from the root. It stops salt migration, ensuring the stone surface remains clean. 🔒

2. Select High-Quality Materials 🏗️

   • Portland Cement and Tile Adhesive: Use premium-grade Portland cement and avoid sea sand. 🌊✋
   • Improved Grout Formula: Incorporate Hanshi 130 Anti-Efflorescence Additive into the grout to further reduce the release of soluble salts. 🛠️

3. Strengthen Waterproofing Measures 🛠️

   • Apply waterproof sealing to the foundation, stone back, and sides before installation.
   • Ensure a dry construction environment to prevent moisture from compromising the stone quality. 🌞

Important Notes ❗

Once these "watermarks" form, they are almost impossible to remove, and post-installation cleaning and maintenance may have limited effect. Therefore, using professional anti-efflorescence products like Hanshi 130 Additive during installation is crucial to prevent efflorescence from occurring. 🛑