Wall Discoloration/Sediment?


  #1  
Old 05-19-09, 12:10 PM
M
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Wall Discoloration/Sediment?

Hello,

My husband and I are currently using our basement as a master bedroom (long story.) The walls are just the original cement block with a coat of paint on them from the previous owners. We have never had problems with water coming through the foundation, except during last year's flood, and that was only a trickle.

However, we have noticed a brownish/grey discoloration in certain areas along with some raised areas on the walls. It looks as if someone plastered some dirt on the wall and then painted over it. (Which, of course, is not the case.) I am planning to take a couple of pictures this evening. I honestly don't think it's mold, as it doesn't have any odor to it, but I could be wrong.

Do any of you know what this could be and how we can treat it/prevent it?

Thank you in advance for any help!
 
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Old 05-19-09, 03:20 PM
J
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It sounds like efflourescense, but that is usually white patches on the block, which often blisters paint. It is hard to imagine dirt coming thru the block, but if it is very pourous block I supose it could happen.
 
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Old 05-19-09, 06:23 PM
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Hard for me to see.......... Could be mold, or minerals left over from water leaking.

Picture would be nice.... Be safe, G
 
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Old 05-19-09, 06:30 PM
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efflourescense can be a light brown color. Id say that is what you have.
 
 

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