I had some calcium leach out of the mortar on my brick steps, on to my blue stone sidewalk. The calcium hardened on to the top of the bluestone and I’m not really sure how to get it off without damaging the bluestone. Has anyone ever dealt with this before?

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Posted by 9rocket

Member since Sep 2020

1211 posts

Posted on 4/24/24 at 12:48 am to wryder1

That is called efflorescence. Usually caused by too much moisture in the substrate. The water brings it to the surface and then evaporates, leaving behind the calcium or limestone residue. 50/50 white vinegar and water will remove it. May need to scrub with a soft brush.

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Posted by wryder1

Birmingham

Member since Feb 2008

4172 posts

Posted on 4/24/24 at 9:15 pm to 9rocket

Thanks for the advice. Will this hurt the bluestone or surrounding bluestone?

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Posted by 9rocket

Member since Sep 2020

1211 posts

Posted on 4/24/24 at 10:13 pm to wryder1

No. It’s very mild. If you are uncomfortable, it’s always best practice to test in an inconspicuous area first. We do this on all types of natural stone

This post was edited on 4/24/24 at 10:15 pm

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Posted by wryder1

Birmingham

Member since Feb 2008

4172 posts

Posted on 4/25/24 at 5:17 am to 9rocket

Would you happen to know how to get wax off bluestone as well? One of the candles from a jack-o’-lantern spilled wax on it and left a small stain. I got the wax off the surface but it looks like some got in the pours of the stone. Thanks

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Posted by 9rocket

Member since Sep 2020

1211 posts

Posted on 4/25/24 at 7:26 am to wryder1

I guess I would try a poultice.

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