FAQs

Having installed your newly purchased hardscape product, you might have noticed in some cases that there’s a bit of white residue that won’t seem to come off. The most likely cause of this white residue on the surface of pavers is a naturally occurring phenomenon called efflorescence. It occurs when water-soluble salts within the paver migrate to the surface and react with carbon dioxide to form calcium carbonate, which is the substance that remains visible on the surface of your pavers. Efflorescence may be visible when the pavers are installed or may appear later, seemingly at random.

While efflorescence is certainly unsightly, it does not mean the pavers are of poor quality or flawed in some way. Good manufacturers, including Barkman, try to limit the appearance of efflorescence using various techniques but there is currently no manufacturing process that can completely eliminate it.

Over time, efflorescence will eventually wear away or disappear, usually within a span of 3-6 months, although it can take much longer depending on the circumstances.

Aside from simply waiting for the efflorescence to run its course, there are a number of ways a homeowner can remove efflorescence. Regular scrubbing with a stiff brush and water will help to loosen and wash away some of the deposits, shortening the time it takes for the stains to disappear. A power washer can also be used to remove staining, although it should be done carefully as the stream can damage the pavers.

Various chemical solutions that are formulated to remove efflorescence are also available but should be tested on a small area before being used on a larger surface. Ideally, the chosen chemical solution should not contain hydrochloric acid because it can cause discoloration on the surface of your pavers. Regardless of the chosen method, additional cleanings may need to be done at a later date as more salts rise to the surface. However, with repeated cleanings, your pavers can be kept stain-free until the salt deposits have been exhausted, at which point the pavers will remain free of efflorescence for the life of your pavers.

As a precast concrete manufacturer, Barkman does not sell products directly to the public. We do have dealers all over Canada and the Northern United States that carry our products in their respective locations. You can find your nearest dealer here.

Technical information on our products can be viewed on our main Specification Guide as well as in the Resources area in this website, which contain installation manuals, cut sheets, reports and product drawings.