Treating Saltpeter-Affected Masonry

Traces of saltpeter, damaged plaster and masonry, efflorescence – walls are naturally subject to numerous factors (migration of salts present in the soil towards the walls, rainwater in contact with exterior flooring, etc.) that can deteriorate masonry stones. The walls are therefore no longer protected from rainwater that infiltrates them.

What are the causes of saltpeter appearance?

Saltpeter can appear due to:

Capillary rise : This is due to rising moisture present in the soil below dwellings whose walls are buried up to 1.50 m in height. It can occur when foundations are in contact with water or when walls are not sufficiently waterproofed. Thus, as soon as the walls dry out inside, the saltpeter will filter to the surface to reach the open air, hence the external formation of salt crystals.
Poor ventilation : When a room is insufficiently ventilated, it promotes an increase in humidity levels.
Building location : Your building is constructed on a sloping space, above a water table, or if rainwater is poorly evacuated and stagnates on your land.
Water infiltration : Unlike capillary rise, this concerns the penetration of rainwater directly into your roof and walls. It will start by causing damage to the exterior of the walls before reaching the interior of the building.

Over the years, salts accumulate inside the wall and plaster. In contact with moisture, this high quantity of salts swells and causes the plaster to burst. To prevent the plaster from bursting, it is necessary to create reservoirs inside the undercoat that will allow the storage of salts and support their expansion.

Before starting your remediation work

It is essential to know the cause and origin of the moisture or saltpeter in order to treat the pathology appropriately.

Need advice?

Our field team can help you analyze the causes in order to offer you the corresponding solution.

Our product range includes a remediation mortar specially designed to capture salts: SANIMUR®.