How to remove efflorescence from painted walls in garage?

[PhilM1]

Hi all,
I have some efflorescence that has come up on the walls and ground in my garage.
I tried removing it with a high-pressure hose today, however it took the paint off (which I'm trying to avoid).

I then tried scrubbing it for ages with soapy water and a bit of white vinegar. That helped a little, but the vast majority of it didn't come off.
Any ideas for removing this without taking the paint off?

Thanks

[EricL]

Hello @PhilM1 

Thanks for sharing your question about removing efflorescence on your wall. Efflorescence occurs when water containing dissolved salts is brought to the surface of masonry, the water evaporates, and the salts are left on the surface. I suggest having a quick look at this discussion - How to stop efflorescence on concrete? by @rc1. 

To remove the efflorescence, I suggest using Crommelin 4L Efflorescence Remover in combination with a stiff bristle brush. Please make sure to follow application instructions and allowing the product to activate first. If washed or removed too early the product will not work properly. If the salt deposit is too stubborn a second application might be necessary. I also propose looking at SWP E-R Efflorescence-Rid which is a commercial product.

Please make sure to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when working on your project.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[EricL]

Hello @PhilM1 

Having had a second look at your pictures, it appears that you might have moisture coming through the wall which is often caused by hydrostatic pressure. Is this wall by any chance low into the ground or is the soil outside this wall higher than the floor on the inside? If so, then odds are water is settling inside the masonry wall and is making its way through it causing efflorescence. 

Another possible cause is faulty plumbing or drainage along the outside wall. Again, water is making its way through the masonry wall and causing efflorescence. Generally speaking, if the water is coming from the other side of the wall the common repair applied is to dig into the soil and expose the wall. It's then sealed with a waterproof sealer such as Gripset Betta 1L Waterproofing Membrane Bitumen Rubber. 

If it is a plumbing fault, then the source of the water must be traced back to its source and repaired. In this particular instance, I propose engaging the services of a licensed plumber or a Leak detection/Water proofing specialist to investigate the cause of the overabundance of the efflorescence.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[PhilM1]

Thank you very much for that Eric!
Yes, there is elevated dirt on two of the walls which is likely leading to the accumulation of water. I'll see if I can find a water proofing specialist.
Thanks again.

[PhilM1]

Thanks Eric.

Do you know whether the SWP E-R Efflorescence Rid product is likely to also strip paint off the wall?

[EricL]

Hello @PhilM1 

The SWP E-R Efflorescence-Rid is a much stronger product, it might strip off the older sections of paint on the wall. If you decide to use it, I suggest testing a small section of the wall first.

Eric