Efflorescence is a crystalline deposit, typically white, that forms on the surface of porous building materials such as brick, concrete, stone, and stucco. This phenomenon occurs when water containing dissolved salts migrates to the surface of the material and then evaporates, leaving behind salt deposits.
While it can vary in color (sometimes appearing green, yellow, or brown depending on the specific salts), white is by far the most prevalent and recognizable form. It’s common to confuse the discolorations for mold, which is organic and behaves differently (e.g., it doesn’t turn to powder when rubbed, nor does it dissolve in water). While efflorescence itself is often a cosmetic issue, it is meaningful for inspectors to note it as it indicates the presence of moisture, which can lead to more serious problems, such as structural damage (e.g., spalling).
There are two primary types of efflorescence: efflorescence that occurs during initial curing, as excess water evaporates from newly placed materials, and secondary efflorescence, which results from external moisture intrusion after the material has cured.
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