Scale Removal

[MacMichael]

My pool/spa was drained to replace the coping which was stained because of a poor concrete mix. While the pool is empty I want to remove the very slight scaling from the tile. The scaling is a 1/4" band less than the thickness of paint. The pool school recommends an acid wash. I don't want to stain the pebbletec so what should be the acid/water concentration ratio. What is the best way to apply the wash? Or, should I just use something like ajax or barkeepers friend? The pool will be refilled Tuesday so I need to get it done this weekend.

Thanks

 

[duraleigh]

Ajax or barkeepers friend would be my first choice because of convenience.

If you don't get the results you want, I would suggest starting with a 4:1 ratio water/muriatic. If it doesn't foam up when it contacts the scale, you will need to increase the strength until you do get foaming and the calcium will be removed.

 

[MacMichael]

The barkeepers friend didn't do anything. I tried MA at about 3:1 but it didn't really do much either. I am afraid of staining (or worse) the pebbletec since there is no way to keep the acid wash from running. I might try using a stronger solution and a small foam paint brush then immediately hose it off. Any other thoughts?

 

[Richard320]

Since it's on the tile, a pumice stone and some elbow grease should do it. It will sound awful, but somehow it doesn't seem to scratch the way you'd think by the sound. You may also want to stock up on Motrin. And beer.