Concrete is solid and long-lasting, making it a wonderful foundation material for many kinds of structures. Given its reputation, it can surprise you to hear that concrete is still porous. Given sufficient time, water from beneath slabs or walkways makes its way through the concrete to the surface, and the water then evaporates. During its travel, the water carries salts taken from the concrete. These salts become a white powder when the water dries on the surface of the concrete. This ugly product is called efflorescence.
Water comes up through the concrete for multiple reasons that do not involve leaking pipes. The type of soil and amount of rainfall can influence the amount of groundwater. The presence of springs or near-surface aquifers may also create water reservoirs underneath your property. And a nearby lake, river, or creek could influence the moisture content in the ground, especially if your foundation is below the level of the high-water mark.
What To Do About Efflorescence
Some moisture issues are serious enough that in addition to sealing the concrete, you also need to take other measures outside the structure. But if the issue is just in the concrete, our epoxy sealing method is sufficient to waterproof the concrete. Following this type of treatment, you can confidently install tile, carpet, laminates, or wood floors.
With epoxy sealers, the age of the concrete generally does not matter as long as it is stable. Epoxy coatings dry rapidly, minimizing delays, but it cannot be applied to brand new concrete until the material is fully set. To find out more about water remediation for concrete foundations in Fallon, contact Nevada Custom Coatings for assistance.