Efflorescence Removal Interlock Ottawa
Efflorescence removal for interlock in Ottawa removes white haze caused by mineral salts migrating to the surface. This chalky white deposit is one of the most common paver complaints—and one of the most misunderstood.
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Signs You Need Efflorescence Removal Interlock
What Causes Efflorescence
Understanding the chemistry behind white deposits.
The Process
Contributing Factors
- New pavers (more available salts)
- Wet conditions followed by drying
- Poor drainage beneath pavers
- High water table
- Certain cement types in manufacturing
Why It Appears
- Natural process in all concrete products
- More visible on dark-coloured pavers
- Seasonal patterns (spring most common)
- Can occur for 2-3 years after installation
Why Pressure Washing Alone Fails
Simple water cleaning does not work for efflorescence.
The Problem
- Water dissolves the surface deposit
- Deposit recrystallizes as water dries
- Efflorescence returns, often worse
- Cycle repeats indefinitely
What Happens
Why Chemical Treatment is Necessary
- Acids neutralize the calcium salts
- Converts deposits to water-soluble form
- Rinses away completely
- Breaks the reformation cycle
Will Efflorescence Come Back
The honest answer about recurrence.
New Installations (0-3 years)
- Likely to see some recurrence
- Natural salt depletion over time
- Each cycle typically less severe
- May need 2-3 treatments initially
Mature Installations (3+ years)
- Less likely to recur
- Most salts already migrated
- Treatment usually permanent
- Address moisture sources if recurring
Preventing Recurrence
- Improve drainage if poor
- Redirect water sources
- Apply penetrating sealer
- Address ground moisture issues
When It Keeps Returning
- Indicates ongoing moisture problem
- Investigate drainage and water table
- May need structural drainage solution
- Sealing can help but not cure root cause
Sealing to Reduce Future Buildup
Protection strategies for efflorescence-prone pavers.
Penetrating Sealers
- Allow vapor transmission
- Reduce water absorption
- Do not trap moisture inside
- Best for efflorescence-prone pavers
Film-Forming Sealers
- Can trap moisture
- May worsen efflorescence if applied wrong
- Use only on completely dry pavers
- After efflorescence has stopped
Timing
- Wait until efflorescence cycle complete
- Pavers must be thoroughly dry
- Typically 2-3 years after installation
- Or after successful treatment
Our Efflorescence Removal Interlock Process
We follow a proven process:
Dry Assessment
Evaluate severity and extent, check for moisture sources, identify contributing factors, plan treatment approach
Dry Brushing
Remove loose surface deposits, reduces chemical needed, clears heavy buildup areas
Pre-Wetting
Saturate surrounding areas, prevents chemical absorption in clean pavers, protects adjacent surfaces
Acid Application
Efflorescence-specific cleaner phosphoric acid based, controlled application to affected areas, allow reaction time bubbling indicates action, agitate stubborn areas
Neutralization
Apply neutralizing solution, essential for paver protection, prevents acid damage
Thorough Rinse
Complete removal of all chemicals, high-volume water flush, ensure no residue remains
Drying and Assessment
Full evaluation when dry, identify any remaining deposits, retreat if necessary
Efflorescence Removal Interlock Cost in Ottawa
Project Examples:
- Light efflorescence $300 - $500
- Moderate buildup $500 - $900
- Heavy deposits $800 - $1,500
Get Your Free Estimate
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate for your efflorescence removal interlock project.