White Powder (Calcium Sulfate) on Cypress Wood

Noticing a white powder on your Cypress?

 

Our research shows that the white powder comes from inside the cypress wood, normally through knots, splits or checks in the wood. This white powder is calcium sulfate and comes from the kiln drying process used by mills that utilize boilers as a heat source. During the drying process, the calcium sulfate forms on the inside of the pipes as scale and due to the heat and moisture, is suspended in the heated air of the kiln and settles onto (and into) the wood. The wood itself, being mostly wet at that stage, has open pores where the calcium sulfate laden air settles. We know it is not present in all boards and is not visible to us during our finishing process.

 

This naturally occurring issue has presented itself on exterior porch applications. Because the calcium sulfate is hygroscopic, when condensation forms on the boards in the mornings or after a rain has passed, it migrates out through the knots, splits and checks found in cypress via the condensation.

 

If you are experiencing "white powder" on your Synergy Wood Cypress porch ceiling, use this form for a White Powder Cleaner Kit.

How to use the White Powder Cleaner Kit:

Use provided face shield during the application and removal of the DeScale 433 soultion.

Spray affected area until saturated. Let sit on surface for five (5) minutes. Wipe off affected area with a clean, damp cloth. Rinse cloth as needed. Repeat as needed.

More than one application may be required to treat heavily affected areas. Over time - and with treatnent, the white powder will stop migrating out.

Dowload the NuFlo DeScale 433 MSDS 

 

 

For any other information you might need, please call 866-791-6714 or email us.