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Hi,
Does anyone know what caused this? How to repair?
Thank you.
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Evelyn_y. It's marvellous to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about repairing masonry.
That looks like efflorescence, where salts have built up on the surface as moisture has moved through the masonry. It can happen when water enters the brick or mortar and then evaporates, leaving behind mineral deposits. The build-up there seems fairly substantial, suggesting the area has been damp for some time.
To fix it, you can simply scrape or brush away the efflorescence with a stiff brush and then fill in any missing or weakened sections of mortar. However, it’s worth checking for the source of the moisture. Inspect nearby roof flashings, sealants, or junctions where water could be getting in. If this pillar is now part of an enclosed area that was previously external, it’s possible the structure was never designed to be fully internal, and moisture could still be entering from outside. If the brickwork on the exterior of the pillar is exposed, water could be tracking through to the interior face. You might like to apply a sealer to the external side to help prevent this moisture from getting into the blocks.
If this white deposit has built up over several years, it’s likely more cosmetic than structural. Clean it off, repair any gaps in the mortar, and monitor the area. If the problem reoccurs after rain, it’s a sign that water is still entering from outside, and further sealing or flashing repairs may be needed.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
