Efflorescence is a salt deposit left behind when moisture makes its way through concrete.
Efflorescence on wood in attic.
Efflorescence develops on inorganic building materials like concrete and brick.
When water seeps through concrete brick or stone it can leave behind salt deposits.
Efflorescence is odorless while mold growth often produces a musty odor.
Another indication though imperfect is the presence of a mold smell.
Efflorescence on the other hand is almost always white or yellow.
There is no efflorescence on the brick above or below the attic.
If you find a white mold like substance on sheet rock or wood you can certainly rule out efflorescence.
In order to tell if it is white mold or efflorescence mist the affected area with water.
It often looks like mold but really it s caused by salt deposits.
If it s efflorescence the salt with dissolve away.
Efflorescence is often described as dissolvable salts in moisture that are transported through porous materials such as concrete brick block and stone through capillary action.
When the water evaporates what remains is a white crystalline substance that resembles mold.
White mold is commonly found growing on wood surfaces.
We live in a 1950 s two story home located in an area with low humidity warm summers very cold winters.
Before insulating our attic i would like to know if i should be concerned about a heavy white efflorescence on the bricks of the chimney in our attic.
Rafters in the attic floor joists in the basement or.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Mold on the other hand grows on organic materials such as wood.