Efflorescence Control: The EFF-CONTROL+ System (Prevent, Treat & Clean)

Efflorescence is the white, powdery salt deposit that can appear on grout, tiles, pavers, brickwork and natural stone as moisture moves through the substrate and evaporates at the surface.

The Eff-Control+ System gives you a product for each stage:

  • Prevent: Eff-Shield+ is added to grout, screed, mortar and render mixes to help reduce efflorescence before it starts.
  • Eliminate: OxiTreat+ and Oxi Gel+ help remove existing efflorescence, grout haze and grime from acid-resistant surfaces (not for acid-sensitive stone such as marble, limestone and travertine).

Efflorescence is driven by moisture. These products are not a substitute for compliant waterproofing, drainage and correct preparation.

Not sure which one? Try the Product Selector or call +61 2 9521-4000.

Efflorescence Control: The EFF-CONTROL+ System (Prevent, Treat & Clean)

Watch & learn

How-to videos

How to help prevent efflorescenceThe complete Eff-Shield+ guide for grout, screed, mortar and render.

Choosing the right product for efflorescence: reduce or remove?

Efflorescence is driven by moisture carrying salts to the surface as it evaporates. The Eff-Control+ System tackles it in two stages: at the mix and on the surface. Start by working out whether you are building or renovating, or dealing with a deposit that has already appeared.

  • Eff-Shield+ - add to grout, screed, mortar, tile adhesive, render or concrete mixes to help reduce efflorescence, picture framing and moisture staining before they start
  • OxiTreat+ - concentrated acid cleaner for larger floor and paved areas, helps remove existing efflorescence, grout haze, grime and rust from acid-resistant surfaces
  • Oxi Gel+ - cling gel version for vertical surfaces such as shower screens, splashbacks and walls, helps remove efflorescence, soap scum and grout haze

Using Eff-Shield+ at the build stage

Eff-Shield+ is a water-based admixture added to the mixing water of cement-based grouts, screeds, mortars, renders and concrete. It lines the capillary pores with a water-repellent layer through the full thickness of the material, so it still breathes while helping reduce the water movement that carries salts to the surface.

Removing existing efflorescence and grout haze

OxiTreat+ and Oxi Gel+ are acid formulas for acid-resistant surfaces such as porcelain, ceramic, pavers, terracotta and acid-resistant natural stone. They are not suitable for acid-sensitive stone such as marble, limestone or travertine. Always test in a small hidden area first to check dilution rate and colour stability.

FAQs

Efflorescence control: the eff-control+ system (prevent, treat & clean): common questions

What causes efflorescence on tiles, grout and pavers?

Efflorescence appears when moisture moves through grout, concrete, mortar or stone and evaporates at the surface, leaving salts behind as a white, powdery deposit. It is driven by moisture, so good drainage and surfaces that help resist water matter. Eff-Shield+ is added to the mix to help reduce the water movement that causes it. These products are not a substitute for compliant membranes, drainage and correct preparation.

How do I remove efflorescence that has already appeared?

For acid-resistant floors and pavers, OxiTreat+ is a concentrated acid cleaner that helps remove existing efflorescence, grout haze and grime. For vertical surfaces like shower screens and splashbacks, Oxi Gel+ clings on as a gel. Test both in a small hidden area first, and avoid use on marble, limestone or travertine.

Can I use OxiTreat+ or Oxi Gel+ on marble or limestone?

No. OxiTreat+ and Oxi Gel+ are acid formulas designed for acid-resistant surfaces such as porcelain, ceramic, pavers and bluestone. They are not suitable for acid-sensitive natural stone including marble, limestone and travertine. See cleaning and sealing options for marble for suitable alternatives.

How does Eff-Shield+ help reduce efflorescence before it starts?

Eff-Shield+ is mixed into the water used for grout, screed, mortar, render or concrete. As the mix cures it lines the capillary pores with a water-repellent layer through the full thickness, helping reduce water absorption and the capillary movement that carries salts to the surface, while still allowing the material to breathe.

Will sealing my tiles make efflorescence go away for good?

No sealer can fully address efflorescence, which is driven by ongoing moisture movement through the substrate. Eff-Shield+ helps reduce the risk at the mix stage, and OxiTreat+ or Oxi Gel+ help remove deposits that appear later.

Is Eff-Shield+ safe to use indoors?

Eff-Shield+ is a water-based admixture and is No VOC, making it suitable for mixing into grout, screed, mortar and render for indoor and outdoor areas, including bathrooms and wet areas. It is added to the mixing water rather than applied as a surface coating.