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Efflorescence removers

The white, matt bloom on paving, usually in its first year after laying, is lime carried out of the concrete by moisture. You dissolve it with an acid-based remover, and seal only clean, dry paving.

Lime efflorescence removers

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Sealers for the cleaned paving

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How to remove efflorescence from block paving

The white, matt bloom on new paving is lime that came out of the concrete with the water. It does not sit on the surface, it grows out of it, which is why a brush and water leave it alone and ordinary detergent does not dissolve lime compounds.

You remove it with an acid-based product matched to the deposit: efflorescence, cement residue after building work, or run-off stains below a kerb or wall. Use it as the product instructions say and rinse thoroughly.

Plan sealing only once the bloom is gone and the paving is dry. A sealer locks in whatever it finds, so applied over efflorescence it would seal it in.

Read the full guide: Efflorescence on block paving - where it comes from and how to remove it →

Frequently asked questions

What removes the white bloom from block paving?

An acid-based efflorescence remover: D-2W, EC-22 or Guard Remover Eco, which also removes cement residue. A brush and water will not shift the bloom, and detergent does not dissolve calcium carbonate.

Will efflorescence on paving go away by itself?

Sometimes: on some surfaces it fades over a few seasons as the concrete gives up its mixing water. Whether and when depends on the sub-base, drainage and the weather.

Is efflorescence a defect in the paving?

No. It is the natural reaction of fresh concrete to water and well known to paving manufacturers. It does not point to a poor batch or a laying error.

When can I seal paving after removing efflorescence?

Once the bloom is gone and the rinsed paving is dry right through the pores, not just to the eye. Check the maximum substrate moisture and application temperature in the sealer's technical data.