POOL TILE: CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

Jim Stevens
2025-02-12T10:09:21-08:00

Our Technical Services team and Ken Milbery, director of techncial services, recently finalized new guidelines for the care and maintenance of glass and ceramic tiles installed in pools and spas.

POOL TILE: CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

Maintaining the pristine appearance of glass mosaic and ceramic tiles in your swimming pool requires a proactive and consistent approach. Here are some key strategies for keeping your tiles looking new and beautiful.

SEALING

After the tiles have been installed and before the pool is filled for use, it is highly recommended that the installation be sealed to lessen the maintenance needed in the future. The sealer is a sacrificial product and needs to be reapplied on occasion.

REGULAR BRUSHING

Brushing the tiles weekly is essential to prevent mineral buildup, especially along the waterline, where evaporation is highest. Use a soft brush or non-abrasive scrub pad to gently clean the surface, focusing on areas prone to residue accumulation. This routine helps maintain the tiles’ finish and prevents unsightly scaling.

BALANCED WATER CHEMISTRY

Keeping water chemistry balanced is essential for the longevity and appearance of your pool tiles. Imbalanced water can lead to increased mineral deposits and potential tile damage.

Maintaining balanced water chemistry is crucial. Regularly monitor and adjust the following parameters:

Calcium Hardness: Aim for levels between 200–400 ppm. High calcium hardness can cause scaling, while low levels may make the water corrosive.

pH Levels: Maintain a pH between 7.2 and 7.8. An imbalanced pH can lead to scale formation and impact the effectiveness of sanitizers.

Total Alkalinity: Keep levels between 80 and 120 ppm to stabilize pH and prevent fluctuations that may cause scaling.

Frequent testing and adjustments help avoid conditions that promote mineral deposits.

EQUIPMENT RUN-TIME MANAGEMENT

To mitigate mineral accumulation, it’s advisable to run overflow features continuously. Constant water flow prevents the drying and evaporation cycles that leave minerals on tile surfaces, reducing the risk of buildup.

For example, perimeter overflows sometimes cycle on and off during daylight hours to save energy or run a cleaning cycle. Minerals are left behind each time the water dries or evaporates. To reduce mineral buildup, overflow features should run from sunrise to sunset.

USE OF APPROPRIATE CLEANING SOLUTIONS

For routine cleaning, mix equal parts vinegar and water with a few drops of a non-detergent cleaner like Dawn. Spray the mixture onto the tiles, let it sit for about 10 minutes, and then gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush or a nonabrasive scrub pad to remove any buildup. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can scratch or dull the tiled surface.

NEVER PLACE MURIATIC ACID DIRECTLY ON GLASS OR CERAMIC TILE

PROFESSIONAL MAINTENANCE

If you notice persistent buildup or staining despite regular maintenance, consult a pool maintenance professional. They can evaluate the situation and suggest specialized treatments.

We advise against using mechanical abrading or blasting for glass or ceramic tile.

By adhering to these practices, you can preserve the beauty and durability of your pool tiles, ensuring that your pool continues to be a striking focal point for years ahead.

A pdf version of these recommendations can be found here: