Dark Pebbletec totally white after Swamp and Slam

[nonfictionally]

After replacing a bad pump, we've been cleaning up a green swamp complete with floating turd like algae and a million toad tadpoles by SLAMming our pool and it is close to being done—the water is almost clear, and we can see the bottom, but the normally dark pebbletec is white.

While slamming we brushed the sides and the bottom once or twice a day, but it is still white. So, wondering if it was whitened algae permanently fused on the surface or calcium, we poured 31.4% muriatic acid through the water and onto the top step, scrubbed it a little, and it looks more like normal.

My questions are 1. what caused this, and 2. do I now need to drain and acid wash the whole pool? and 3. can I wait until next year to do it (we are trying to finish building our house)?

Here are my current chem levels:
FC 7.5
PH 7.6
TA 175
CH 265
CYA 40~

Attached are some pictures.

 

[Richard320]

That's probably Calcium Scale from the chemistry getting all out of whack. If it hasn't gotten to the point of homegrown sandpaper that causes roadrash on contact, you don't need to acid wash or sandblast. Just drive the TA down to 50-60 range and keep pH in the 7.2>7.5 range and use a stainless steel brush on it when you brush. It will soften up and lift, but sloooooowly. Months, at least. The CH levels will climb as the scale dissolves back into solution. But at least the pool will remain swimmable the whole time. Another alternative is a no-drain acid wash, which you can read about by using the search box.

 

[nonfictionally]

If it hasn't gotten to the point of homegrown sandpaper that causes roadrash on contact, you don't need to acid wash or sandblast.

Well, I'd say it's about 100 grit or lower, but I'll try lowering the TA and buy a stainless steel brush. Also, I really appreciate you explaining that it will go slowly, because otherwise I'd probably try it once or twice and give up.

If it remains too rough, I'll probably go with the no-drain acid wash--I had seen something about it but was afraid it might break something--it's good to know it's an option.

Thanks for the help, Richard!