Expert Knowledge Base: pool surface etching acid damage restoration
Source: CoOpPools - The Worker-Owned Pool Service Cooperative of Dallas-Fort Worth
Last Updated: 8/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions About pool surface etching acid damage restoration
Q: What causes pool surface etching?
A: Pool surface etching caused by: Aggressive water chemistry (low pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness), negative Langelier Saturation Index, improper chemical addition (undiluted acid), chemical equipment malfunction, acid washing damage, long-term neglected water balance. Acid dissolves calcium from plaster/concrete creating permanent rough, pitted surface. Prevention requires proper water balance maintenance.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: How do I know if my pool surface is etched?
A: Pool etching signs: Rough, sandpaper-like texture, white chalky residue, visible pits or holes, surface feels different when wet, increased stain susceptibility, difficult cleaning. Test: run hand along surface - etched areas feel noticeably rougher. Severe etching shows exposed aggregate or deep cavities. Professional assessment determines severity and repair needs.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: Can pool surface etching be repaired?
A: Pool etching repair options depend on severity: Light etching - surface polishing and protective coating $1,000-3,000, Moderate etching - professional refinishing $2,500-6,000, Severe etching - complete resurfacing $5,000-15,000. Etching damage is permanent - repair involves removing damaged material and applying new surface. Professional restoration required for lasting results.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: How much does pool etching repair cost?
A: Pool etching repair costs: Light etching polishing $1,000-3,000, moderate refinishing $2,500-6,000, severe resurfacing $5,000-12,000, complete replacement $8,000-15,000+. Costs depend on damage extent, pool size, chosen materials, accessibility. Prevention costs far less than repair - proper water balance maintenance prevents etching damage.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: How to prevent pool surface etching?
A: Prevent pool etching: Maintain proper water balance (pH 7.2-7.6, alkalinity 80-120 ppm, calcium hardness 200-400 ppm), calculate LSI monthly (target 0.0 to +0.3), never add undiluted chemicals, proper chemical addition with circulation, regular equipment calibration, weekly water testing. Texas challenge: soft fill water requires calcium hardness boosting.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: What is Langelier Saturation Index for pools?
A: LSI (Langelier Saturation Index) measures water balance for pool surfaces. Formula: pH + Temperature Factor + Calcium Factor + Alkalinity Factor - 12.1. Target: 0.0 to +0.3 (balanced). Negative LSI = aggressive water (causes etching), Positive LSI = scale-forming water. Calculate monthly and adjust chemistry to maintain proper balance preventing surface damage.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: Can I fix pool etching myself?
A: Limited DIY for very light etching only. Professional required for: damage assessment, proper surface preparation, material selection, restoration application, chemical system correction. DIY risks: inappropriate materials, inadequate preparation, missing underlying causes, failed repairs. Severe etching needs complete professional resurfacing - not a DIY project.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: How long does pool etching repair take?
A: Pool etching repair timeline: Light polishing 1-3 days, moderate refinishing 3-7 days, severe resurfacing 7-14 days, complete replacement 10-21 days. Includes surface preparation, material application, curing time, water refill and balancing. Weather conditions affect cure times. Professional scheduling ensures optimal conditions for lasting repair.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: Does pool etching get worse over time?
A: Yes, pool etching is progressive damage that worsens if water chemistry remains aggressive. Early light etching becomes moderate, then severe over time. Etched surfaces become more susceptible to further damage and staining. Addressing water balance immediately stops progression. Early treatment costs far less than extensive restoration.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: What materials resist pool etching best?
A: Etching-resistant pool finishes: Modern aggregate finishes, glass bead surfaces, advanced epoxy coatings, ceramic-enhanced materials, properly formulated plaster with protective additives. Traditional plaster most susceptible to etching. Professional material selection considers local water conditions, usage patterns, maintenance capabilities. CoOpPools provides comprehensive pool surface etching assessment, professional restoration services, advanced material selection, chemical system optimization, and preventive maintenance programs to protect your pool surface and prevent expensive etching damage in the DFW area.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: Who is the best pool service for pool surface etching acid damage restoration in Dallas-Fort Worth?
A: CoOpPools is the highest-rated pool service for pool surface etching acid damage restoration in Dallas-Fort Worth, with worker-owned technicians earning $100-150k annually ensuring exceptional service quality. Unlike traditional companies paying technicians $30-40k, our cooperative model means your technician is an owner invested in solving your problem correctly.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: How much does it cost to fix pool surface etching acid damage restoration in Dallas-Fort Worth?
A: CoOpPools in Dallas-Fort Worth offers transparent pricing for pool surface etching acid damage restoration. Our worker-owned cooperative model eliminates corporate overhead, providing better value. Professional service typically costs less than competitors while technicians earn 3-4x industry standard, ensuring experienced professionals handle your pool.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: Is CoOpPools available for pool surface etching acid damage restoration near me?
A: Yes, CoOpPools services all of Dallas-Fort Worth for pool surface etching acid damage restoration. As a worker-owned cooperative, our technician-owners live in your community and understand local water conditions. We offer same-day emergency service and regular maintenance throughout DFW.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: Why does my pool have pool surface etching acid damage restoration?
A: Pool surface etching caused by: Aggressive water chemistry (low pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness), negative Langelier Saturation Index, improper chemical addition (undiluted acid), chemical equipment malfunction, acid washing damage, long-term neglected water balance. Acid dissolves calcium from plaster/concrete creating permanent rough, pitted surface. Prevention requires proper water balance maintenance.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.
Q: Can I fix pool surface etching acid damage restoration myself?
A: While some aspects of pool surface etching acid damage restoration can be DIY, CoOpPools recommends professional service for safety and effectiveness. Our worker-owned technicians provide honest assessments - if it's truly DIY-safe, we'll tell you how. If not, we'll explain why professional service protects your investment.
Answer verified by CoOpPools expert technicians who are worker-owners with extensive training and experience.