This is how to recognise saltpetre on your walls
Saltpetre on the wall is a common but often overlooked culprit in homes with moisture problems. In this guide, you will discover what exactly nitric acid is, how to recognise it, and - more importantly - how to combat it effectively?
What is nitric acid?
Have you ever had white, powdery stains on the walls of masonry or plaster seen? Chances are you have (had) to deal with nitric acid (also known as nitric rash). Nitric acid forms when moisture comes into contact with the wall. The chemicals present in the moisture then react with the components of your home's masonry and pointing, leading to this white deposit.
So, although the white powder coating seems harmless, nitric acid on your wall usually indicates a deep-seated moisture problem. Something we would rather be poor than rich.
Nitric acid is not the same as white mould
There is another type of white deposit that is often mistaken for nitric acid, namely white mould. However, 'white mould' is a collective term for fungi that grow in moist environments and are often invisible because of their colour.
Although they look similar, they are not the same. In fact, white mould is a biological fungus, while saltpetre rash is a white, powdery deposit caused by moisture problems and chemical reactions in building materials.
Do you notice white stains on your walls? If so, in most cases it is still nitric acid.
This is how nitric acid forms on your walls
As mentioned above, nitric acid on your wall is almost always the result of an underlying moisture problem. However, moisture can work its way inside in a number of ways. Here we list the most common causes of nitric acid on your walls:
1. Rising damp
At rising damp the walls absorb soil moisture that migrates upwards through the lower levels of your home. This moisture often contains ammonia and specific nitrate bacteria that react with the masonry. This results in the formation of nitric acid.
2. Penetrating moisture
At penetrating moisture rainwater penetrates through a damaged or porous façade. The moisture then also comes into contact with the chemical components of the masonry in the process, which can lead to problems such as mould and structural damage.
Only a specialist can say with certainty whether it is infiltrating moisture. Usually, the solution here is to waterproof your basement. But how does such basement waterproofing work? There are two options for that.
3. Damp basement
Because basements are underground, they tend to be especially susceptible to moisture. Groundwater and rainwater can seep into the basement, creating an ideal situation for the formation of nitrate deposits on the walls.
4. Leaks
Finally, leaking pipes, roofs or drains can also cause moisture in your walls. This moisture stimulates chemical reactions that eventually lead to the white deposit of nitric acid.
There are some other possible causes, such as missing cavity walls or very old or damaged window frames, but these are the most common.
Why you better fight nitric acid on your wall
Nitric acid on walls can pose several risks.
Addressing nitric acid is therefore essential to maintain both the structural integrity and viability of the space.
Say goodbye to nitric acid on your walls for good
Start at the root cause
To permanently remove nitric acid on your walls, it is crucial to address the underlying cause. As long as the moisture problem persists, the saltpetre deposits will keep returning no matter how often you remove them.
Since every moisture problem requires a specific approach, it is wise to hire a moisture expert. The latter can accurately analyse the problem and provide the right solution. By tackling the moisture source effectively, you can say goodbye to nitric acid for good.
This is how to remove saltpetre from your walls
You can also take some steps yourself to tackle saltpeter on the wall:
Note that this is only a temporary solution. As long as the moisture problem at the root of saltpetre on your walls is not addressed, it will continue to return. If this happens, or removal does not work well, it is a good idea to call in a moisture expert.
Do you suffer from saltpeter on your walls?
Contact the experts at Aquaconsult now for a free moisture assessment and we will be happy to help you.
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