If you just had a new tile roof put on your home and you are seeing a chalk-like residue on your roof –
there is no need to be alarmed. Your roof is fine. It is just going through its natural ‘curing’ process.
The white chalky stuff is called Efflorescence.
So what is Efflorescence?
According to the Tile Roofing Industry Alliance:
Efflorescence is a temporary surface discoloration common to all concrete-based building
materials including concrete roof tiles. It is superficial and in no way detrimental to the overall
quality, structural integrity, or functional properties of the tile. Efflorescence is caused by the
chemical nature of the cement. Manufactured cement contains free lime, and when water is
added, a series of chemical reactions takes place. These reactions are accompanied by the
release of calcium hydroxide, which can form an overall white, chalky crystalline salt deposit on
the tile surface when reacting with carbon dioxide. This reaction can appear as an overall bloom
(overall softening of color) or in more concentrated patches.
According to Stoneworth: ‘Roof efflorescence is not harmful, and the little white crystals can even form
immediately after the roofing tiles are created and other concrete materials. The calcium
carbonate will normally disappear over time.
The roof efflorescence does not negatively affect the integrity of the building materials and they
will remain strong and stable. The issue is that roof efflorescence is not an attractive look on the
roof of your house or business, and it is not always evenly spread out, so it looks out of place.
Efflorescence is part of the curing process and allows the concrete on your roof to naturally cure itself
over time. At Grant Construction & Roofing, we do not recommend removing it. As well, please
understand that this is a natural process and in no way will this affect the quality, functional properties
or the workmanship and structural integrity of your roof. If you have a ‘Grant Certified’ Tile Roof,
understand that your roof then, is guaranteed for 15 years to be free of any defects due to materials or
workmanship.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your tile roof and the efflorescence, please feel free to
contact us at 833-FL-GRANT (833-354-7268).
