Calcium on decking?

[300winmag]

Resealed our decking earlier this year with the same sealer used last year; pure acrylic. I added some glass beads this year to improve traction, and its worked out very well!

Over the last few weeks we've been getting what i think are calcium deposits on the decking. Seems to be worst in the areas that our dog drips off. He's a 100# golden, so he seems to drip gallons at a time.

Anyway, curious how to confirm what it is, then how to remove it, and then how to prevent it!

I'll get a pic up in a few.

Thanks!

 

[300winmag]

 

[JoyfulNoise]

Try spraying some diluted MA on it, maybe 5:1 water:MA. If it fizzles or is easily removed, then it's calcium.

 

[300winmag]

Will 5:1 eat my sealer?

 

[jblizzle]

No joy using PhotoBucket unless you pony up $400/year. Try another host or just let TFP host them (since you are a supporter you have space)

 

[JoyfulNoise]

What's the decking material?

 

[300winmag]

Stamped concrete w the acrylic on top.

- - - Updated - - -

Slightly OT, but how do I let TFP host my pics? Didnt see that option when I posted.

 

[JoyfulNoise]

A spot test in an inconspicuous area would be best. I don't think a 5:1 dilution will cause any damage but better to be safe. You could always tape off a small test area and sponge the excess off right away to see if it impacts the stain.

If it is calcium, then it should fizz right away or be cleared up very quickly. Results should be immediate. If it's something else then the MA will have no impact.

There are efflorescence cleaners available that area design to remove calcium without damaging underlying surfaces. But better to test first to see what you're dealing with.

 

[jblizzle]

Click the little picture above the Reply box. Select from computer or URL. If you pick URL, there is a check box for it to be downloaded and hosted here.

 

[300winmag]

MA took some of the white stuff off, but not all of it. I even tried it at 1:1 ratio in an inconspicuous location. No dice.