- 1). The most effective and convenient way to remove calcium build-up from your pool is also the most expensive one. Bead blasting is a service that pool companies provide involving the use of spherical particles blasted against the tile with the use of an air compressor. It is similar to sandblasting but will not damage your pool tile. Fees for bead blasting generally start at around $300-$400
- 2). You may be tempted to use a regular pumice stone on those tough stains, but avoid this as they can scratch and leave unpleasant traces. Alternately, pool stores sell what is called a "pool blok," a natural floating pumice stone that will not scratch surfaces or mess with the pH balance of your pool. These stones can be a bit frustrating since they do tend to crumble easily but will work on both tile and concrete surfaces.
- 3). Muriatic acid will work on your calcium deposits, but caution should be used with this dangerous chemical. Fill a bucket with two parts water to one part acid. Wear rubber gloves, goggles and a respiratory mask as the fumes are toxic and the solution can burn you. Apply with a sponge or brush on a small area to test the effectiveness. Rinse with plain water. Do not leave this chemical on for too long as it can permanently etch your tile work. It should work very quickly, if not immediately.
- 4). Test the pH level of your pool, as muriatic acid will usually raise it. If so, add soda ash to bring the pH level back down to normal.
- 5). Most calcium deposits can be avoided by keeping your water balanced. Do this by avoiding calcium-based shocks, and use care when adjusting the calcium hardness to a higher level. The easiest way to combat naturally hard calcium water from your taps is to add soft water to your pool. It is okay to add soft water to top off pool water as long as the entire pool is not filled with it.
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