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Can You Use a Pumice Stone to Remove Calcium From Pool Tile?
Quick Answer:
Pumice stones are often used as a DIY method for removing calcium buildup from swimming pool tile. While pumice can remove stubborn deposits from some surfaces, it must be used carefully because it can scratch or damage certain types of pool tile. Before using a pumice stone, it’s important to know what type of tile you have and whether pumice is safe for that surface.
How to Remove Calcium From Pool Tile With a Pumice Stone
What You’ll Need
- Pumice stone made for pool cleaning
- Clean water
- Bucket
- Soft cloth or towel
- Protective gloves
Step-by-Step: Cleaning Pool Tile With a Pumice Stone
Step 1: Lower the Pool Water Level
Lower the pool water level just below the calcium buildup so the tile is exposed and easy to reach with the pumice stone. You only need to lower the water enough to expose the area you plan to clean.
Step 2: Wet the Pumice Stone and Pool Tile
Before scrubbing, thoroughly wet both the pumice stone and the pool tile with clean water. Keeping both surfaces wet helps the pumice glide across the tile and reduces the risk of scratching. Never use a dry pumice stone on pool tile.
Step 3: Gently Rub the Calcium Buildup
Using light pressure, gently rub the wet pumice stone across the calcium deposits. Work in small areas and keep both the pumice stone and tile wet while cleaning. Check the tile frequently for scratches or changes to the finish, and stop immediately if you notice any damage.
Step 4: Rinse and Inspect the Tile
Rinse the tile thoroughly with clean water to remove loosened calcium and pumice residue. Wipe the area with a soft cloth or towel and inspect the tile. If calcium remains, repeat the process carefully rather than using excessive pressure.
Will a Pumice Stone Remove Heavy Calcium From Pool Tile?
A pumice stone may remove some heavier calcium deposits, but thick, hardened scale can be difficult and time-consuming to remove by hand. Applying too much pressure or repeatedly scrubbing the same area can also increase the risk of scratching or damaging the tile.
For heavy calcium buildup around a large portion of the pool waterline, professional pool tile cleaning can remove the deposits more efficiently without spending hours scrubbing by hand.
When to Call a Professional Pool Tile Cleaner
If a pumice stone is not removing the calcium, the buildup covers a large portion of the pool waterline, or you are concerned about scratching your tile, professional cleaning may be the better option. Heavy calcium deposits often require specialized equipment and cleaning media to safely remove the buildup.
Arizona Bead Blasting specializes in removing stubborn calcium and hard-water scale from swimming pool tile. Our glass bead blasting and salt blasting methods allow us to clean different types of pool tile safely and efficiently without draining the entire pool.
Need Help Removing Calcium From Your Pool Tile?
If a pumice stone isn’t getting the job done, Arizona Bead Blasting can help. We professionally remove calcium and hard-water scale from pool tile throughout the Phoenix metro area using proven cleaning methods designed for different tile surfaces.
Call us today for a free quote and find out what it will take to get your pool tile looking clean again.