Why Scale Forms On Pools And How Can You Remove It?

If you have been ignoring the white flaky deposits on your pool walls, this post will guide you about why you might be in trouble.

A good outdoor pool designer recommends you summon your scrubs, chemicals, and gloves to eliminate this calcium deposit before it worsens. Read on to understand what this is and how to remove it.

Calcium deposits

The accumulation of solid calcium deposits, called calcium scale, is a common issue faced by pool owners. It is a white to gray color chalky deposit that lines your pool tiles, making them look unsightly. This calcium scale hardens into a rough texture which can scrape and hurt you other than reducing your pool aesthetic. It can either be calcium carbonate or calcium silicate.

To check the type of deposit, you can spray some muriatic acid on it. If it dissolves due to the acid, then the scale is due to calcium carbonate. If it does not, you’re dealing with the more stubborn calcium silicate with a good chance that it has inundated your filters, causing pipe scaling.

1. Test your water

The first step is to test your water to assess the chemical balance and type of calcium deposit. Your cleaning procedure will depend on these test results.

2. Balance the Calcium Hardness level

You should opt for the ideal calcium hardness levels of 200-400 ppm. Levels higher than 400 ppm cause pool cloudiness. To bring them down, you can drain some pool water and refill.

3. Balance the pool pH and alkalinity

Once your calcium levels have stabilized, you must focus on the pool pH and alkalinity thresholds. The pool pH should stay between 7.2-7.6, while its alkalinity should range from 80-120 ppm. You can read about how to maintain these levels here.

4. Remove calcium scale

Calcium carbonate deposits can be cleared using a pumice stone, stain eraser, or scale remover. A pumice stone can only be used on concrete or tile surfaces; otherwise, it will scrape and scar a fiberglass or vinyl pool surface. Ensure the stone and the application area are damp to prevent scratching. On the other hand, a calcium silicate deposit will require a pumice stone and a lot of hard work.

In the case of vinyl surfaces etc., you’ll need professional pool designers with special additives to remove the scale. Powered ‘blasting’, flathead screwdrivers, and putty knives are also some methods and accessories used by experienced pool contractors.

If you’re facing issues with your pool’s calcium hardness levels and need expert guidance over it, you can reach out to our team in Sterling. We have expert outdoor pool designers who can keep your lovely pool in up-to-date condition. Get a professional pool builder’s advice and services to ensure your pool is a healthy place for your family and friends.