Efflorescence
If you recently had a new concrete tile roof installed, there’s a slight possibility that you may notice chalk-like residue or what appears to be color softening on your tile. No need to worry! Your concrete tile roof is undergoing a natural process called efflorescence.
Efflorescence and Concrete Roofs.
All concrete products, including sidewalks and bricks, can experience this process. It is simply a chemical reaction caused by the nature of the cement. Manufactured cement contains free lime, and when water is added, a series of chemical reactions take place. These reactions are accompanied by the release of calcium hydroxide, which has the potential to form an overall white, chalky crystalline salt deposit on the tile surface when reacting with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. If this reaction is to occur, it can appear as a “bloom” (overall softening of color) or as concentrated patches on the roof. It doesn’t matter who the manufacturer of your concrete tile roof is; this is a process that can occur with concrete products overall.
Is Efflorescence harmful?
No. In the unlikely occurrence that your concrete tile roof does show signs of efflorescence, Eagle Roofing Products wants you to rest assured that this is superficial and in no way affects the quality, functional properties, or structural integrity of the concrete roof tile. Your concrete tile roof will continue to be energy efficient, visually stunning, and durable, withstanding the elements of rain, snow, high wind, and scorching heat for the life of your structure.
Can I Remove Efflorescence?
While there are materials on the market that suggest they can remove efflorescence, it’s best to allow the natural reaction to run its course. Within time, sunlight, rainwater and carbon dioxide will wash away the chalky residue, and the original color of the tile will reappear without further efflorescence. If you do decide to attempt to clean the roof using a product, we strongly suggest you contact the manufacture so see how the use of such a product will impact the material warranty.
Credit to Eagle Roofing Products for the content in this blog.
