Efflorescence is a powdery, white deposit that appears on the surface of concrete. It’s very common, and although it’s harmless, these deposits can be a real eyesore.

It goes unnoticeable on plain, grey concrete and block but becomes highly visible on coloured concrete and precast products. Normally, the problem doesn’t show up until weeks or months after installation and often becomes a dispute between angry customers and contractors.

Efflorescence is caused by moisture moving through concrete and masonry products. As it travels through in a process called capillary action, the water dissolves salts contained in the material. When the water reaches the outside, it evaporates and leaves the salts on the surface. Over time this build up of salty deposits can become quite significant. This process is facilitated by lower temperatures, humidity, rain, or anything that will keep the material wet like sprinklers.

There are two types of efflorescence. The regular powdery kind is easily removed. Crystallized efflorescence occurs when powdery deposits go through cycles of being re-dissolved, drying out, then re-dissolved again and so on. This forms crystals which begin to adhere tightly to the surface and require more to remove.

Because humidity and moisture play a key role, some areas of the country will experience the problem more than others. The time of year also plays a part since some seasons are wetter than others.

October 2011 Article

As much as we hate to admit it, fall is just around the corner. It is now the time to start thinking about winterizing our beautiful ponds and water features.

This is an important process for your ponds mechanical features (i.e. pumps, filters and pipes) as well as your fish and aquatic plant life. Here are a few easy steps to follow once fall temperatures start dropping to 10 degrees Celsius and lower.

1. Remove all fall leaves that have accumulated in your pond.

2. Cut back all dead foliage from aquatic plants.

3. Disconnect, remove pumps, and store in a pail of water inside of the garage or basement.

4. If your pond is deep enough (3 Ft. deep or more) to not freeze solid, your fish will hibernate through the winter. However, they will need an open space in the ice to allow for gas exchange. A small de-icer will accomplish this. If your pond is under 3 ft. deep, remove your fish to an aquarium or other holding area until the next spring.

5. Lastly, mark the perimeter of your pond to prevent any unpleasant slips or accidents.

By following these steps you can keep your pond healthy, your fish happy, and your landscape looking its best.