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Posted by: Jack Masters on February 02, 2000 at 09:27:55:
In Reply to: Re: dark colored block Posted by: Jack Masters on February 02, 2000 at 09:13:15:
: : I am considering buying a house that is built on a foundation. In some areas of the basement the block is darker (wet looking). It is not wet to the touch. Also in some areas there is a white chalky material. Since there is never actually water in the basement is there a way to treat the block to take care of the appeareance problem?
Dear Dan, The dark color is probably water which has seeped in from the outside and partially filled the empty spaces(cells) within each of the cement blocks.The white material you noticed is effloresence.This material looks like frost,and is caused by the alcaline/acidic reaction which results when ground water reacts to cement products. The exterior damp proofing origionally provide to protect this home from intrusive ground water has begun to fail. Repairs for this condition can be complex and costly.Beware! If you want to learn more go to www.mydrybasement.com and consider reading the book previewed there. Best Wishes,Jack Masters
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