BEFORE you seal masonry...

Everyone says "Seal the masonry!" as if it is a silver bullet that cures all.

Re-write all this!

Efflorescence – chalky, white stains on the exterior of masonry buildings – happens when moisture and mineral deposits weep through the masonry and stain the exterior. In many Chicago neighborhoods more than 30% of the buildings have efflorescence.

DO NOT seal a wet building before finding and repairing the water source and adding ventilation. Sealing the building may cause more damage, including:

1. Water may leak from ceilings, windows, doors and electrical outlets.

2. Water absorbing into trusses or joists

3. In the winter, water may freeze and crack the face off the brick, or structurally damage CMU.