Wall Tiles Showing Efflorescence? Here's How to Fix It!

What is Efflorescence on Wall Tiles?
Efflorescence occurs when alkaline substances, such as calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) from cement, grout, or mortar, dissolve and migrate to the tile surface. When exposed to carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the air, these substances react to form calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), leaving unsightly white deposits, often referred to as "white bloom." 🙅‍♀️

Two Types of Efflorescence 👇 (Scientifically Categorized):

1. 🌟 Early Efflorescence (Initial Efflorescence):

   • Timing: Appears within a few days to weeks after installation.
   • Cause: During the curing process of cement or mortar, calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) migrates to the surface and reacts with CO₂ in the air to form calcium carbonate (CaCO₃).

2. 🌧️ Long-Term Efflorescence (Secondary Efflorescence):

   • Timing: Occurs months or years after installation, especially in damp or rainy environments.
   • Cause: Persistent moisture infiltration allows unreacted salts (e.g., sulfates or chlorides) within the cement or grout to dissolve, gradually accumulating on the surface as salt deposits.

What Causes Efflorescence?

1. Construction Materials:
   High alkali content in cement or grout can lead to efflorescence when exposed to moisture.

2. Poor Waterproofing:
   Inadequate waterproof layers allow water to penetrate the substrate, dissolving and carrying alkali substances to the surface.

3. Humid Environment:
   Persistent humidity or rainfall exacerbates efflorescence by increasing moisture movement through the wall.

✅ Effective Solutions to Prevent Efflorescence:

1. 💡 Smart Installation:
   Add Hanshi 130 Anti-Efflorescence Additive to cement or tile adhesive during installation. This locks in alkali substances (e.g., Ca(OH)₂) to prevent them from dissolving and migrating to the surface, effectively stopping efflorescence at the source.

2. 🔧 Use High-Quality Grout:
   Opt for grout containing Hanshi 130 Anti-Efflorescence Additive to seal tiles and protect against efflorescence from the start.

3. 🛡️ Strengthen Waterproofing:
   Ensure a high-quality waterproofing layer is applied to the substrate and wall before tile installation to block moisture infiltration.

4. ✨ Regular Cleaning:
   Use diluted acid-based cleaners (such as oxalic acid solution, H₂C₂O₄) to remove existing efflorescence. Exercise caution to avoid damaging the tile surface.

5. 🌈 Optimize Drainage Design:
   Improve drainage systems to prevent rainwater or moisture from accumulating on wall surfaces.

Pro Tip: 💡 Adding Hanshi 130 ensures quick and effective prevention of efflorescence!
While efflorescence may seem stubborn, using proper materials and techniques like adding Hanshi 130 Anti-Efflorescence Additive can resolve the issue at its root, keeping your wall tiles looking flawless for years! ✨

Save this blog for future reference and solve efflorescence issues with ease! 💪✨