Foodlion Split Rock?

[rj242]

Hey Everyone,

I am a newbie, and have become friends with a seasoned local pressure washer, in my area. I advised him of this forum along with a few more, but he is a little computer challenged. He wanted me to ask a question on this forum. The questin is " Have any of you tried to clean the White Split Rock at most Foodlions"? He says that the white split rock in our area (coast line), has a white substance that seems to be coming almost like from within the split rock. He said that he has tried numerous chemicals, on the split rock with no results. He said that a few days after trying some spots, it actually looked a little worse (more white substance). He also said that the white substance is more prevailant, lower to the ground.

Thanks in Advance for your replies!

RJ

[PWkid]

Sounds to me like effloresence,I am not sure about white split rock or what it is but I would have to assume it is a brick like substance. The effloresence is more prevalant closer to the bottom because of moisture. I would try some acid in a small area and see how that does.

[rj242]

What type of acid, would you suggest using?

[PWkid]

A little weak muratic should do it. It needs to soak into the rock and then maybe some type of sealer should be used. I would contact the manufacturer or the installer of the rock and see what they suggest.

[We Wash Concrete]

Split rock is just a concrete block that has been "split" to give a very uneven look to it. Most all new retail buildings are using this around here. Most paint over them though. Efforesence is a leaching of minerals in the rock if I understand correctly. There are several chemicals especially for effloresence. EaCo Chemicals has some good stuff and you can probably find other at local brick yards.

[Tracy Handl]

These answers are good advice. The white substance is salts that leach out of the mortar mix and block itself. The acid approch should work well. Acid with at least some surfactant will be better than acid alone. You will get more "lift" that way. Also, pre-wet your work before applying the acid. The block is porous so having the water soak in before the cleaner allows for easier rinsing, and less aggressive cleaning which can result in more problems when cleaning stone and brick work. Our product called "Pro BRC" will work great. You can find it on our site Pressure Washers and Power Washing Supplies From Sun Brite Supply.. Let us know if we can be of service in any way.