No matter how carefully you maintain your pool, you're bound to see calcium buildup at some point. Without swift action, calcium deposits can affect your pool to the point where you won't want to swim. If your pool has sustained damage from calcium, a swimming pool repair company can help. No matter your situation, consult this guide for answers to your most pressing calcium questions. 

Your Swimming Pool Calcium Deposit Questions Answered

How do calcium deposits look?

Calcium typically appears as a gray grime that follows the waterline of your pool. It's caused by one of two substances: calcium carbonate and calcium silicate. Calcium silicate forms white flakes that float on the surface of your pool and are easy to remove. By contrast, calcium carbonate is a white-grey substance that clings to tile and is harder to remove. It typically appears after months or years of buildup. 

Why do calcium deposits form?  

Your pool water should be between 7.4 and 7.6 on the pH scale for optimal clarity and comfort. If the pH of your pool is higher than normal, you'll end up with deposits. You'll need to fix the pH issue before removing the calcium since the buildup will quickly come back if the pH is still off.

What steps do you need to take to fix the pH?

Before tackling the calcium, you'll need to partially drain your pool to bring the calcium measurements into an appropriate range of 200 to 400 ppm. You'll also want to assess your pool for damage at this point and call a swimming pool repair company if necessary. 

If you don't see damage, add acid as needed to adjust the pH while refilling the pool. Be cautious about the amount of acid you add since the pH can easily spike in the opposite direction. The measurement needs to stay between 7.4 and 7.6. 

How do you remove calcium?

The removal method is different for calcium silicate and calcium carbonate. For carbonate, you'll want to add an acid-free cleanser to the water that won't damage your pool tiles. 

You'll likely need a rough object like a pumice stone to scrape away the deposits. You'll want to use a scaling treatment if you have a fiberglass pool. For silicate, you'll need a pumice stone or a special calcium removal product to reverse the problem.

If your pool has sustained damage due to a serious calcium issue, Under the Sun Pools and Pavers can help. Their experienced team serves homeowners throughout the Fort Meyers, FL area. Since 2003, they've offered repairs, installations, and maintenance at fair prices. Learn about their swimming pool repair services online or request a quote by calling (239) 243-4893.