In short, the concrete slabs that make up our parking garage ceilings are going through a natural process of efflorescence -- which is dropping onto cars and in some cases leading to alleged permanent damage.  We need to get it this cleaned at once either by acid wash or efflorescence-specific remover, followed by a complete concrete sealant.  I am in the process of getting quotes.  Any and all recommendations to point me in the right direction are truly appreciated.

One definition: This is one of the most common but least understood phenomenons with concrete. Efflorescence is a chalky white salt residue that can occur with any product containing cement. As moisture migrates up to the surface of the concrete, it carries along with it calcium salts from within the concrete. When the salts reach the surface, they react with CO2 in the air and form insoluble calcium carbonate. This white, dusty, scaly salt can be minimal or dramatic, depending on the amount of free calcium salt present in the concrete. Exposure to rain, standing water, and sprinklers only make the situation worse, as water triggers the reaction and creates more efflorescence.

Efflorescence is not as noticeable when it occurs on gray concrete, but even a little efflorescence on colored concrete can be a contractor's worst nightmare. Efflorescence makes red look pink, brown look tan, and black look gray or even white. The good news is that it will eventually go away on its own as the free calcium is depleted. The bad news is that this can take as long as 15 years. And in this situation, you can't wait.

To fix the problem at this point, clean the surface with a mild acid or efflorescence remover (some manufacturers make special efflorescence cleaners) followed by sealing. To avoid the problem altogether on future projects, consider using a colored curing compound or cure and seal to match the color of the concrete. To learn more about efflorescence, read my other blog entries on the topic: Causes of Efflorescence on a Stamped Overlay and Efflorescence Hides Integral Color

This morning, one of our fellow residents awoke to find his car sitting on cinder blocks with his tires and wheels missing.  This is a clear and frustrating reminder that no city is free from theives and criminals.  Please keep your car doors locked, valuables out of clear site, and most importantly, keep the building's doors closed at all times. 

In terms of what do to if and when you come across individuals doing this to one of our cars or other property, I suggest 40 caliber over 9 mm.  A shot to the knee cap or groin will usually get the point across just fine.  Also keep in mind that if you give me a phone call, I have a nice, clear shot from up on my balcony.  However, I don't know what the bylaws say about wild west gun fights on the common grounds, so I'll have to check with Shelby.

- Fix Jamie Reynold's sticking intercom button

- Replace northeastern-most street lamp bulb, add additional bulbs to inventory

- Add replacement keys to inventory

- Replace floor in elevator

- Continue leaking roof investigation