Why Does My Pool Tile Turn White?

If your pool tile has developed a cloudy white crust, you're not alone. This is usually caused by calcium buildup, a common problem for pool owners in South Texas. The good news? It's fixable—and preventable—with the right knowledge and care.

What Causes White Buildup on Pool Tile?

That white crusty film is calcium carbonate, and it forms when your pool water is out of balance—especially if your calcium hardness, pH, or total alkalinity levels are too high. South Texas water is naturally hard, which makes this problem even more common.

Why You Shouldn’t Scrub It Yourself

It’s tempting to grab a wire brush or harsh cleaner, but doing so can scratch your tile and worsen the problem. Calcium deposits are stubborn and require specialized tools to remove them safely.

How We Remove It: Bead Blasting

At South Texas Pool Tile Cleaning, we use a low-pressure glass bead blasting method to gently strip away calcium without damaging your tile. It’s safe, effective, and restores your tile to its original beauty.

How to Prevent It in the Future

• Test your water weekly and adjust pH and alkalinity as needed

• Use a calcium sequestering agent if you live in a hard water area

• Schedule professional tile cleaning every 1–2 years to stay ahead of buildup

Tired of fighting white tile stains? Contact South Texas Pool Tile Cleaning today for a free quote and let us bring your tile back to life.

FAQs

Can I remove calcium with vinegar or CLR?

They might help with very light spots, but professional blasting is safest and most effective for thick buildup.

How long does tile cleaning take?

Most jobs take just a few hours—and your pool can stay full the whole time!