Calcium deposits on marble floors are white and powdery.
Marble floors are a lovely addition to many homes and office buildings. These floors are generally easy to care for, but occasionally unsightly calcium deposits are visible on the floor surface. While calcium deposits are generally harmless, they are not attractive and can be difficult to remove. Does this Spark an idea?
Identification
Calcium deposits are white, powdery areas that are easy to spot on wood, tile, marble or concrete. These deposits are comprised of calcium, sodium, magnesium, carbonate, sulfate and chloride. Calcium deposits form for an extended period of time before the deposit becomes visible. In some cases, homeowners mistake these deposits for mold growth.
Causes
Calcium deposits are caused when moisture is a problem indoors. When moisture is present, it evaporates causing light-colored deposits to appear on floors. Homes with calcium deposits usually have problems with moisture seeping in through an improperly sealed basement. Homes that do not have adequate moisture barriers in place underneath the concrete slab may eventually develop calcium deposits as well.
Effects
According to North Dakota State University, calcium deposits are not associated with any harmful effects to human health. However, these deposits may begin to cause corrosion on marble or other surfaces if high levels of salt are present. Homes that have persistent calcium deposits on the floors have a moisture problem and mold growth is likely. Mold is harmful to human health, causing symptoms such as sneezing, wheezing, nasal congestion, skin rash and itching eyes. Those with serious respiratory conditions such as asthma may suffer an increase in symptom severity when exposed to mold. Since mold gradually damages the material it grows on over time, structural damage may occur.
Diagnosis
Homeowners with white crusty deposits on their floors must determine if they are caused by calcium deposits or if they are actually mold growth. One way to make this determination is to place a few drops of an acidic substance such as vinegar on the affected area of the floor. If the substance is dissolved by vinegar, it is a calcium deposit and not mold growth. If the vinegar does not cause the substance to dissolve, then it is most likely mold and it must be removed to avoid damage to the home. Mold can be removed by scrubbing it with a hard brush dipped in liquid dish detergent and water. Rinse the area and dry. After mold is removed, the source of moisture must be repaired to avoid further mold development.
Tags: calcium deposits, mold growth, Causes Calcium, Homes that, Homes that have, human health
