Why Are My Bricks Turning White? Here's What You Need to Know
If you've spotted white stains on your brick walls patchy, you're likely dealing with efflorescence — or in some cases, calcium-based stains.
Both are common issues in Australian homes and buildings, especially after wet weather. Luckily, these stains can be removed — and at Slick Bricks, we’re the pros who can help you do it right.
What Is That White Stuff on My Bricks?
Understanding Efflorescence
Efflorescence is a white, powdery residue that forms on the surface of brickwork.
It’s one of the most common reasons bricks turn white — and while it’s mostly a cosmetic issue, it can point to underlying moisture problems that need attention.
What Causes Efflorescence on Bricks?
Efflorescence occurs when:
Moisture gets into the brickwork and reacts with the minerals contained within the bricks
These chemical reactions forms salts which migrate to the surface of the brickwork
This salty water evaporates, leaving behind the salty white deposits
No moisture = no efflorescence. That’s why managing water exposure is key.
How to Remove White Stains from Brickwork
When dry, efflorescence becomes flaky or chalky — this is the perfect time to remove it.
Here's how:
Use a stiff brush to brush off
Repeat the brushing process if needed
Dispose of residue properly preferably vacuuming up
Avoid using water, which can dissolve the salts and pull them deeper into the brick
This method works well for mild to moderate efflorescence. For persistent or large-scale cases, you may need professional cleaning.
How to Stop Efflorescence from Coming Back
Removing it is only a short-term solution unless you deal with the moisture source.
Common moisture sources include:
Leaking gutters or downpipes
Rising damp from a faulty or missing damp-proof course
Soil or garden beds pressed against walls
Dripping taps or leaking internal pipes
Poor drainage or puddling water near the foundation
Damaged roof flashing or misdirected sprinklers
Excess condensation inside the building
Tip: Check your home or site for areas where water might be sitting or seeping in, and fix them before treating the brickwork.
What If the Stains Look Milky or Appear Under the Surface?
If the white marks aren’t powdery but instead look milky, glossy, or set into the brick, you may be dealing with calcium-based stains — also called calcium leaching.
Causes of Calcium Stains on Brick Include:
Misuse of hydrochloric acid during brick cleaning
Leaving unfinished or unlaid bricks exposed to rain
Wet sponging of mortar which is smeared over brick face
These stains are much harder to remove and usually require specialist chemical treatments — not DIY methods.
Professional Help for White Brick Stains
At Slick Bricks, we’re specialists in removing both efflorescence and calcium stains. We’re also a Think Brick Accredited cleaner — so you can trust that your brickwork is in safe, expert hands.
Whether it’s residential, commercial, or construction-related, we’ve got the know-how to restore your bricks without causing further damage.
Builders: Protect Your Brickwork from Stains
If you're a builder remember:
Protect brickwork from rain during and after installation
Use the right cleaning methods (minimise harsh acids!)
Always hire a qualified, accredited brick cleaner
Need Help Removing White Stains from Your Bricks?
If you're in Australia and you're tired of dealing with stubborn white brick stains, give Slick Bricks a call. We offer expert brick and concrete cleaning services and can help stop the problem at the source.
📍 Servicing homes and sites across Sydney
📧 Email: dom@slickbricks.com.au
📞 Call: 0421 792 330
Let’s bring your bricks back to life — clean and stunning
