:confused: The cinder block in my garage appears to be leaching a white powder. These is no obvious sign of water. The garage is attached to my house. The house is on a slight slope so the garage is somewhat (about 2 feet) under the ground level.

I suspect it's moisture problem but I'm not sure of the remedy. Also, if I require professional help, should I contact a mason or one of these waterproofing firms?

Thanks...

Dave

Its called efflourescents. That white powder is actually lime.

Where on the block is it, on the upper half just below grade, down near the floor or in the corners?

If in the corners check your downspout drainage, if on the upper half just under grade check the landscaping so no water is draining along the foundation during rain. If towards the floor area of the block, this can be a exterior drain tile problem along the footer.

First, thank you for explaining what that power is. Just knowing that answer is helpful.

It is only on the bottom row of cinder blocks and on the lower half of those blocks. Interestingly, it is in a slightly scalloped pattern (that might not matter)

The front of the house is always wet---probably due to the slight slope of the lot. The gutter spouts aim out to the driveway and away from the house. However, I did notice that white powder on the cinder blocks along the driveway too. The driveway is asphalt.

Do I need to worry about this or not. Also, any ideas about a remedy?

Again, thanks for the insight.

If its getting real bad to where the blocks are deteriorating, you can dig the dirt away from the exterior of the foundation (being its only about 2' of it) and clean and reseal the foundation. Also check for any damage to the drain tile pipe if visible.
Usually the masons will tar the foundation on the blocks that will be below grade.

If its just slight moisture, when its been dry for a few days, brush off the efflourescents and you can seal the interior of the block with a waterproofing paint such as Drylock.