How to Clean Efflorescence Off of Pavers
Efflorescence occurs in pavers and bricks when water brings salt to the surface of the item, leaving a white, powder-like coating on the paver or brick. Although it appears to be powder-like, it doesn't wipe clean as easily as a powder.

However, efflorescence can be cleaned and removed from pavers using the right products. When cleaning pavers or bricks, it's important to use only cleaning solutions safe for those items. Pavers and bricks are porous and will absorb liquids, and chemicals and solutions not safe for pavers or bricks can cause discoloration or damage.
Things You Will Need
- Hose
- Bucket
- Paver cleaner or brick and block cleaner
- Cleaning brush or medium- to hard-bristled brush
- Cloth
- Efflorescence treating product
Warning
Wear rubber gloves when working with efflorescence treating products.
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Spray the pavers with a garden hose. Set it on a high setting and spray off all dirt and debris, and loosen the efflorescence.
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Combine warm water with a paver or brick and block cleaner in a bucket. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the amount of water and cleaner to add.
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Dip a cleaning brush or medium- to hard-bristled brush into the solution. Brush the pavers clean. Allow the cleaner to dry on the pavers.
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Use the hose to spray off the pavers and remove soap residue. Allow the pavers to completely air dry.
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Dampen a cloth with an efflorescence treating product. Rub the cloth on the surface of the pavers so the entire surface is covered in a thin layer of the product. Allow the product to dry. Do not rinse or remove the product.
The Drip Cap
- Efflorescence occurs in pavers and bricks when water brings salt to the surface of the item, leaving a white, powder-like coating on the paver or brick.
- However, efflorescence can be cleaned and removed from pavers using the right products.
- Spray the pavers with a garden hose.
- Set it on a high setting and spray off all dirt and debris, and loosen the efflorescence.
References
Writer Bio
Kallie Johnson began her writing career in 2009, contributing to various online publications. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. She enjoys writing home and garden topics and considers herself an expert on do-it-yourself home improvement topics.
Photo Credits
- pavers image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com
- pavers image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com
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