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How to Remove Calcium Buildup From Your Pool Tiles

Pool maintenance is essential for keeping your swimming pool in top condition. Whether you have a routine pool maintenance schedule or are a first-time pool owner, dealing with calcium buildup on your pool tiles is a common issue. If left untreated, this buildup can be unsightly and even cause damage to your pool tiles over time.

Fortunately, there are effective ways to remove calcium buildup from your pool tiles. Living Water Pool Company has been a trusted name in pool maintenance and can offer expert advice on how to tackle this problem. In this article, we will explore the various methods and products that pool owners can use to safely and effectively remove calcium buildup from their pool tiles.

By following the tips and techniques provided by Living Water Pool Company, you can ensure that your pool remains clean and pristine for years to come. Don’t let calcium buildup ruin the beauty of your pool – take action and restore the sparkle to your pool tiles today! 

calcium buildup on pool tiles

Did you know that over 85% of homes in the United States have hard water, a leading cause of calcium buildup in pools?

What Causes Calcium Buildup?

Calcium buildup in pools is a result of various factors, primarily related to water chemistry and environmental conditions. Here are the key causes:

  • Imbalanced Water Chemistry: High levels of pH and alkalinity in pool water can lead to excessive calcium deposits.
  • Hard Water: Pools filled with hard water, which has high calcium content, are more prone to developing calcium buildup. This is a common issue in many geographical areas.
  • Temperature and Evaporation: High temperatures and evaporation rates can increase mineral concentration in pool water, contributing to calcium buildup.
  • Aging Pool Materials: Over time, pool surfaces and materials can degrade, potentially releasing minerals into the pool water.

Does Arizona Have Hard Water?

Arizona is known for having hard water due to its geographical and climatic conditions. The water in many parts of Arizona contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which contribute to its hardness. This characteristic of water in the region can impact households and swimming pools, leading to challenges like calcium buildup. Pool owners in Arizona should be particularly mindful of this and consider regular water treatment and maintenance to manage calcium levels effectively.

Is Cloudy Water a Sign of High Calcium Levels?

Cloudy water in your pool can indeed be a sign of high calcium levels, a condition known as calcium hardness. When the calcium concentration in the pool’s water becomes too high, it can lead to the formation of calcium deposits, making the water appear cloudy.

This condition not only affects the clarity and aesthetic of the pool but can also impact the efficiency of the pool’s filtration system and the overall health of the pool water.

cloudy water due to calcium buildup in swimming pool

The Importance of pH Level in Preventing Calcium Buildup

Maintaining the correct pH level in your pool prevents calcium buildup. An imbalanced pH level can lead to either too acidic or too alkaline conditions, both of which can contribute to the formation of calcium deposits. A balanced pH ensures that calcium remains dissolved in the water, rather than forming scales on pool surfaces. Regular monitoring and adjustment of the pool’s pH level are key steps in maintaining a healthy, clear, and scale-free pool environment.

Why You Should Remove Calcium Buildup From Your Pool

Removing calcium buildup from your pool is important for maintaining its aesthetic appeal, ensuring good water quality, protecting pool tiles and surfaces, and ensuring swimmer comfort. Unsightly calcium deposits can compromise the appearance of your pool, while also affecting the chemical balance of the water.

Over time, these deposits can cause damage to pool tiles and create rough surfaces that are uncomfortable for swimmers. 

What are The Two Types of Calcium Found in Pools?

Understanding the different types of calcium found in pools is important for effective maintenance and treatment. Here’s a closer look:

  1. Calcium Carbonate: This type of calcium deposit is more common and easier to deal with. It often appears as white, flaky buildup on pool tiles and can usually be removed with a brush or gentle cleaning methods. Calcium carbonate is also characterized by its reaction to acids; it tends to fizz when acid is applied, making it relatively easy to identify.

     

  2. Calcium Silicate: This form of calcium buildup is more stubborn and harder to remove. Unlike calcium carbonate, calcium silicate takes a longer time to form, often several years. It appears as a thick, harder white or grey scale and does not react to acids like calcium carbonate does. Its removal typically requires more aggressive treatment methods, often needing professional intervention.

     

comparison of different types of calcium buildup in pools

Understanding which type of calcium you’re dealing with is the first step toward effectively restoring the beauty and health of your pool.

While calcium carbonate might be manageable with regular maintenance, calcium silicate often necessitates professional cleaning techniques.

How to Remove Calcium Carbonate at Home

There are several at-home methods to remove Calcium Carbonate Buildup, Such as: 

  1. Pumice Stone/Scale Remover: Gently scrub the affected tiles with a pumice stone or a pool-specific scale remover, taking care not to scratch the tiles.
  2. Vinegar Solution: Apply a vinegar solution to the deposits, allow it to sit for a few minutes, then scrub.
  3. Commercial Tile Cleaners: Use commercial pool tile cleaners as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
  4. Stain Eraser Tool: Employ a stain eraser designed for pools on mild calcium deposits.

 

For stubborn or extensive buildup, professional services like those offered by Living Water Pool Company might be necessary.

How Calcium Silicate is Removed

Professional help is often necessary to remove calcium silicate due to its tough, dense nature that makes it resistant to standard cleaning methods. Living Water Pool Company offers specialized tile cleaning and replacement services specifically designed to handle this type of calcium buildup. Their process typically involves mechanical grinding to gently remove the deposits, application of specialized cleaning agents, and an expert assessment to determine the best approach for each unique pool situation.

 This professional approach ensures that the tiles are cleaned effectively without causing damage. For more details on their services and process, please visit Living Water Pool Company – Pool Tile Cleaning and Replacement.

Strategies for Keeping Calcium Levels in Check For Different Types of Pools

Different types of pools, such as concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl, each have unique requirements for maintaining optimal calcium levels.

 

concrete pool
fiberglass pool
vinyl pool

Key strategies include regular water testing to monitor calcium hardness, adjusting pool chemicals to maintain a balanced pH and alkalinity, and using appropriate cleaning methods for each pool type. For instance, fiberglass pools require careful handling to avoid damage, while concrete pools might need more frequent descaling.

Contact Living Water Pool Company

For personalized assistance and expert services in pool maintenance, including calcium buildup removal, reach out to Living Water Pool Company. They offer a free quote, allowing you to understand the potential costs and services required for your pool. This complimentary quote service is part of their commitment to transparent and customer-focused care. Whether it’s regular maintenance, cleaning, or more complex issues like calcium buildup, their team is equipped to provide top-notch service tailored to your pool’s specific needs.

To get your free quote and learn more about their services, contact us at 623-889-1366