How Often Should I Brush My Pool Tiles?

Brush your pool tiles weekly to remove dirt and prevent calcium deposits from forming.

Why Brushing Pool Tiles Matters

Brushing your pool tiles does more than make them look nice. It plays a major role in overall pool maintenance.

• Prevents calcium and mineral buildup
  

• Stops algae from forming along the waterline
  

• Keeps tiles from getting discolored or stained
  

• Helps maintain proper water circulation
  

• Reduces the need for harsh chemical treatments
  

Neglecting this simple task can lead to stubborn scale and staining that require professional help to remove.

How Often Should You Brush Pool Tiles?

Most pool owners should brush their pool tiles at least once a week. However, certain situations may call for more frequent cleaning.

Weekly Brushing

Brushing your pool tiles once a week is usually enough for average residential pools. This schedule helps keep dirt and calcium deposits from forming.

Twice a Week for High-Use Pools

If your pool gets heavy use or if multiple swimmers are in and out each day, brush the tiles twice a week. This prevents oil, sunscreen, and debris buildup.

Daily Brushing for Algae Problems

If you’re battling algae, daily brushing is key. Use a firm-bristled brush to scrub the affected areas until the algae is gone.

Monthly Deep Cleaning

Along with your regular brushing schedule, plan to do a deep clean of your tile line once a month. This can include:

• Using a tile-safe cleaner
  

• Applying a calcium scale remover
  

• Scrubbing with a pumice stone or stain eraser
  

Tools You’ll Need for Brushing Pool Tiles

Using the right tools can make the job faster and easier.

• Pool tile brush: Choose one with nylon bristles for tile and grout
  

• Telescoping pole: Helps reach across wide or deep pools
  

• Pumice stone: Removes stubborn calcium spots
  

• Tile cleaner: Look for pH-balanced, pool-safe options
  

• Soft cloth or sponge: Great for wiping the waterline
  

Avoid wire brushes as they can scratch tiles and damage grout.

Step-by-Step Tile Brushing Guide

Follow this method to keep your tile line looking great without hurting your pool’s surfaces.

1. Test and Balance Your Water First

Before brushing, make sure your water is balanced. High pH and calcium levels can lead to faster scale buildup.

Ideal water chemistry:

• pH: 7.2 to 7.6
  

• Calcium hardness: 200 to 400 ppm
  

• Total alkalinity: 80 to 120 ppm
  

2. Skim and Vacuum

Remove leaves and debris from the water to avoid stirring it up while brushing. Vacuum the pool if needed.

3. Use a Gentle Tile Cleaner

Spray or apply the cleaner to a sponge or directly on the tile. Let it sit for a few minutes if there’s visible scale or staining.

4. Start Brushing

Scrub the tile line in small sections. Focus on the area just above and below the waterline.

Brush in overlapping strokes and rinse the brush often.

5. Address Stains or Scale

Use a pumice stone or stain eraser for stubborn spots. Rub gently in circles and keep the tile wet to avoid scratching.

6. Rinse and Circulate

After brushing, run your filter system to help clear any loosened debris. You can also vacuum or backwash if needed.

How to Spot When Brushing Is Needed

Besides sticking to a schedule, watch for signs that your tiles need brushing:

• White, crusty deposits (calcium scale)
  

• Greenish film or black spots (algae)
  

• Cloudy water near the tile line
  

• Slippery feel on the tiles
  

• Visible dirt or discoloration
  

If you see any of these, increase your brushing frequency until the problem clears up.

Pool Type Can Affect Brushing Needs

Different pools may need different brushing routines. Here’s how to adjust:

Saltwater Pools

Salt can leave deposits on tiles, especially near the waterline. Brush twice a week and watch for scale.

Hard Water Areas

High calcium levels in the local water supply mean more scale buildup. Use a scale preventative and brush more often.

Indoor Pools

These often have lower debris levels but can still get buildup from body oils and cosmetics. Weekly brushing is usually enough.

Extra Tips to Keep Tiles Clean Longer

Along with regular brushing, a few habits can help reduce tile grime.

• Shower before swimming to rinse off oils
  

• Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation and dust
  

• Maintain balanced water chemistry year-round
  

• Use an enzyme cleaner weekly to break down organic waste
  

• Schedule regular filter cleanings
  

What Not to Do When Brushing Pool Tiles

Avoid these common mistakes that can damage tiles or waste time:

• Using harsh chemicals like bleach
  

• Scrubbing with metal or abrasive pads
  

• Ignoring water chemistry
  

• Brushing too aggressively
  

• Waiting too long between cleanings
  

Staying consistent is better than over-scrubbing once a month.

When to Hire a Professional

If your tiles are severely scaled or stained, or if your pool is large and hard to reach, hiring a professional pool cleaner might be the best option. They can use specialized tools and acid washing methods without harming your surfaces.

Look for a certified pool technician with good reviews who uses safe, tile-specific equipment. Maintaining clean pool tiles takes just a few minutes each week, but it pays off in appearance and overall pool health.