Efflorescence
01 · What it is
What is efflorescence?
Efflorescence is a crystalline white deposit that forms on the surface of concrete, brick, or masonry when water dissolves soluble salts inside the substrate and carries them to the surface as it evaporates.
02 · Why it matters
Why inspectors flag this
Efflorescence itself is cosmetic, but it is evidence of active water migration through the masonry — which is what inspectors actually report on. Persistent efflorescence in a basement indicates exterior drainage or waterproofing issues.
03 · Example report wording
How professional inspectors report it
Liability-safe sample comment
Efflorescence observed on the interior face of the foundation wall at the north corner of the basement. The deposit indicates moisture migrating through the masonry. Recommend evaluation of exterior grading, downspout discharge, and waterproofing to determine the moisture source. Removal of the deposit alone will not address the underlying condition.
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About the Author
Lisa Meine, Certified Master Inspector
12+ years of home inspection experience. Co-founded InspectorData to give working inspectors a modern reporting system that respects their existing templates and workflows. InterNACHI member.