Clay tiles are a timeless, eco-friendly choice for roofing and flooring — but in certain environments, they may face hidden enemies. One such culprit is Brackish water — groundwater with high levels of salts and minerals (TDS) that can silently corrode your building materials over time.
In this article, we explain how brackish water affects clay tiles, what signs to look for, and how to prevent damage — especially if you're building in coastal or high-TDS groundwater regions.
What is Brackish Water?
Brackish water refers to groundwater or surface water with elevated levels of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), typically a mix of salt and other minerals. It’s commonly found in:
- Coastal areas
- Low-lying river basins
- Areas with poor drainage or salinity intrusion
It may look clean, but the high salt content can react with natural building materials — especially clay.
How Brackish Water Affects Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are porous by nature. When exposed to salty or mineral-heavy water, several things can happen:
- Salt Infiltration: Salts enter the pores of the tile and, when water evaporates, leave behind white powdery deposits (efflorescence).
- Chemical Reaction: Over time, salts and minerals can weaken the tile structure, making them brittle or prone to surface peeling.
- Corrosion of Jointing Materials: The salts also affect the mortar or adhesives used in tile laying, causing cracks or separation.
Signs of Brackish Water Damage
Watch out for these warning signs:
- White salt patches or streaks on tile surface
- Flaking or chipping on the tile face
- Dampness or sogginess around the tile joints
- Early deterioration of adjacent bricks, plaster, or concrete
What You Can Do to Prevent or Minimize Damage
If your site has brackish water or high TDS, here are some tips:
1. Test Your Water
Get your groundwater tested for TDS levels. Anything above 500 ppm may be considered risky for sensitive materials.
2. Use Waterproofing or Barrier Layers
Apply damp-proof coatings or use a membrane barrier between the ground and your tiles. This blocks salt migration. Consult us for suggestions.
3. Opt for Surface Treatments
Sealants designed for porous materials can help repel water and salts from entering the tile structure.
4. Elevated Foundation or Backfill Techniques
In construction, use raised plinths and properly graded base materials to prevent groundwater from seeping into tiled areas.
5. Ensure Proper Drainage
Design your site layout so water doesn’t stagnate near tiled surfaces. Use sloped flooring and good external drainage. The overflow from water tanks must be guided properly, away from clay tiles.
6. Routine Maintenance
Clean salt deposits early before they crystallize deep into the tile. Avoid acidic or harsh cleaners — use neutral pH solutions.
Still Have Questions?
If you're unsure whether your site’s groundwater is safe for clay tiles, talk to our team. We’ll help assess the conditions and suggest the right product and preventive measures.