Calcium - Not Just an Eyesore



Living in an area where homes are divided by concrete walls when rain water along with the run-off, and hard water usually cause headaches for homeowners. When these come in contact with each other, the result is an unsightly calcium build-up on the concrete surface.

Many homeowners who experience this problem believe that it is the Homeowners Association’s responsibility, but in Kensington, it is the homeowner who must treat this as part of their regular property maintenance.

Many believe it is caused by their neighbors over watering, but this would be a rare case. After a good rain event it will take a few days or weeks before these deposits begin to show up. If left untreated over a long period of time, these deposits may cause damage to the structure, creating unanticipated costly repairs to the homeowner. You can find ways to remove these deposits on surfaces by searching the internet.

Calcium or hard water deposits can appear not only on concrete but on a variety of other surfaces, such as fountains, swimming pool or spa walls, plumbing fixtures, water lines and numerous other areas. These deposits are formed when rain, snow melt, or irrigation water seep or leach into the ground. As this water travels it collects various minerals from the ground until it comes in contact with a structure. When this water leaves the ground and dries on a surface it becomes crystalized. Unfortunately, there is no way to completely eliminate this problem, you can only try and keep it to a minimum, but this takes a little effort on the part of the homeowner. 

I have found that the easiest way to remove these deposits on the walls at my house, is by using a pressure washer or garden hose with the nozzle set on stream. However, you need to use caution with this method, because if you concentrate the stream of water in one area to long, it could cause damage to the surface.

On really stubborn areas you use a spray bottle with white vinegar. Spray the suborn areas with the vinegar, let it set a few minutes then rinse off. You also may need a stiff bristle brush or broom to help remove the deposits. After the deposits are removed and the surface is allowed to dry, you can apply a concrete sealer to the area. Again, this will not completely eliminate this but it will slow the process down.