What is that White Stuff? (The Science)
If your pavers look like they have been dusted with powdered sugar or chalk, you are dealing with Efflorescence. It is a natural chemical process. All concrete products contain salts. When water from rain or ground moisture moves through the brick, it dissolves these salts and carries them to the surface. As the water evaporates, it leaves the crystallized salt behind. A lot of times this is also caused by poor drainage, improper grading, and incorrect installation methods.
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It is not a stain.
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It is not a defect.
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It is a natural reaction.
The Golden Rule: NEVER Seal Over Efflorescence!
This is the most critical mistake homeowners and inexperienced contractors make. If you apply a sealer while efflorescence is present, you are essentially putting a plastic bag over the salts. The white powder becomes trapped under the clear coat.
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The Consequence: Your patio will look permanently hazy or milky. Fixing this requires expensive chemical stripping.
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The Solution: The surface must be 100% breathable and clean before any sealer is applied.
How We Remove It
While rain can wash away minor efflorescence over time, stubborn deposits require professional intervention.
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Chemical Agitation: We apply a specialized acidic cleaner designed to dissolve calcium and salt deposits without damaging the pigment of the stone.
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Surface Cleaning: We use high-flow surface cleaners to lift the slurry away.
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The "Wait Period": In severe cases, we may recommend waiting a few weeks after cleaning before sealing, just to ensure the chemical reaction has stopped.
Primary vs. Secondary Efflorescence
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New Pavers (Primary): Very common in the first 12 months after installation as the concrete cures.
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Old Pavers (Secondary): If your 10-year-old patio suddenly gets efflorescence, it usually indicates a drainage issue or a problem with the base material or bedding sand holding too much moisture.
Common Questions About White Pavers
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What is the white powder on my brick pavers?
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It is called efflorescence. It is a crystalline deposit of water-soluble salts that migrates to the surface of concrete, brick, or stone when water evaporates.
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Will efflorescence go away on its own?
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Often, yes. "Primary efflorescence" on new pavers will naturally weather away over 1–2 years. However, if you want to seal the pavers now, it must be chemically removed first.
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Can I pressure wash efflorescence off?
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Usually not. High pressure can easily damage pavers. Using only water can sometimes make it worse, as the water soaks into the brick, dissolves more salts, and brings them to the surface. A specialized chemical cleaner is required to dissolve the crystals properly.
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For more answers to your questions, please visit our FAQ Page.