Cleaning
Pool Acid Wash
When brushing no longer brightens your plaster, an acid wash strips a thin layer of the surface to reveal the clean finish underneath. It is the go to fix after a long algae bout, years of mineral stains or a hurricane season that left the pool dull. We drain, wash, neutralize and refill with careful startup chemistry.
Problems we solve
Stubborn plaster stains
Leaf tannins and metal stains that brushing and chemicals cannot lift.
Algae shadows
Dark marks left behind after a pool has been green for weeks.
Scale across the floor
Rough, gray mineral deposits that dull white plaster.
Storm aftermath
Muddy floodwater and debris that stained the surface.
What is included
- Safe pool drain with proper discharge
- Pressure wash of the surface
- Controlled acid application by section
- Neutralizing rinse
- Refill monitoring
- Fresh water startup and balance
How it works
- 1
Inspect the plaster
We confirm the surface can handle an acid wash and set expectations.
- 2
Drain and prep
We drain responsibly and protect equipment and surrounding decking.
- 3
Wash and neutralize
Acid is applied and rinsed section by section, then neutralized.
- 4
Refill and start up
We refill and balance the new water to protect the fresh surface.
What affects the price
Every pool is different, so we quote after a quick look. These are the main things that move the number.
- Pool size
- Surface area determines labor, acid and water use.
- Stain severity
- Heavy staining may take multiple passes.
- Plaster age
- Older, thinner plaster needs a lighter touch.
- Water cost and refill
- Refilling a pool adds water and startup chemicals.
Available in your area
Related services
Pool Tile Cleaning
Remove calcium scale and stains from pool tile. Ideal for hard water in DFW and Houston. Bright waterline tile without damage.
Green Pool Treatment
Green to clean algae treatment for Houston and DFW pools. We kill algae, clean the filter and restore clear water fast.
Pool Opening
Get ready for swim season. Pool opening with cleanup, equipment startup and water balance in Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth.
Frequently asked questions
How often can a pool be acid washed?
Sparingly. Each wash removes a little plaster, so most pools should only be washed every several years.
Will an acid wash fix rough plaster?
It can smooth light scale, but deeply etched or failing plaster may need resurfacing instead.
How long does it take?
Most acid washes take one day, plus refill time depending on your water pressure.
Is it safe to drain my pool in summer?
We minimize the time the pool sits empty and never leave plaster exposed to heat longer than needed.
Does an acid wash remove all stains?
It removes most surface stains. Very deep metal stains sometimes need targeted treatment as well.
Ready for a crystal clear pool?
Tell us about your pool and we will get back to you fast with a free quote.