acid damage to rocks, or scale?

[jeffreymlewis]

Hello,

About a week ago I noticed what looks like calcium scale on one rock near my pool. Thing is, the white marks are way above the water line. This rock is near (within 2' of) the area where I drop chemicals (Cl, HCl, etc...).

Is it possible these white marks are damage caused by muriatic acid? If so, how can I prevent this from spreading? I've already brushed the rock and sprayed with copious amounts of water. (After brushing, the white marks disappear for a while, then reappear after the water dries.)

Here are some pictures.







Thanks,
Jeffrey

 

[duraleigh]

That looks like efflorescence....... minerals migrating to the surface from behind and evaporating/precipitating once they reach the surface.

Muriatic acid will clean it off. I don't think there is a cure other than time

 

[blakeusa]

Rocks are natural and absorb the minerals from the pool water. What you are seeing is calcium. Also into the mortar joints.

Try acid washing with a strong solution 1/3 acid water and a stiff brush. It should form or bubble.

Then balance your pool after the acid gets into the pool water.

 

[jeffreymlewis]

Ok cool, I'll give it a try. Thanks for your suggestions!