Mineral Salt Contamination

What is Mineral Salt Contamination?

Mineral salt contamination is where ground based salts migrate to and become visible upon the internal surfaces of damp walls carried through the masonry by lateral, rising or penetrating damp the mineral salt is left behind as the moisture evaporates from the wall surface. Over time, as more damp migrates to the interior and evaporates, more salt builds up on the surface of the wall.

What are the signs of Mineral Salt Contamination? 

  • White/grey staining on external and internal wall and/or floor surfaces
  • Damp  patches on external and internal wall and/or floor surfaces
  • Crumbling on external and internal wall and/or floor surfaces
  • White/grey crystalline deposits formed on external and internal wall and/or floor surfaces

Note: Visible signs of dampness and mineral salt contamination can continue to be present after the moisture migration has been remediated and dried out given that some mineral salts can be hygroscopic and can therefor absorb atmospheric  moisture.

If you experiencing any of these problems
an ISSE Member may be able to help

If you like to learn more
there are a wide range of training courses available with the ISSE.