The pH is one of the most important parameters of the pool water. Keeping it in optimal conditions will allow you to enjoy crystal clear water with less maintenance and will also extend the life of the pool liner. The pH is the measure of the degree of acidity and alkalinity of the water. In a swimming pool, this value can oscillate between 7.2 and 7.6, but we must act if we see that it goes out of this range.
 

When the pH decreases below 7.2, the water becomes acidic, causing several problems for both people and pool materials. On the one hand, it can cause irritation to the skin, eyes or mucous membranes of swimmers, while on the other hand, it will accelerate the wear and tear of our PC Finish pool coating. Prolonged exposure to this acidity could cause premature erosion of the surface coating, requiring a new application of the coating for repair (not included in our warranties). The effects of low pH on the walls and metals inside the pool will release sulfate into the water. When sulfate comes in contact with the walls and bottom of the pool, stains will form in these areas.

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On the other hand, when the pH rises above 7.6, the water becomes too alkaline. In this case, we also find that it irritates and dries out the skin of the bathers, and also encourages the appearance of calcium deposits on the surface of the pool. If the PC Finish is pigmented in a dark color, these calcium traces will be more conspicuous, being more discreet in lighter colors. The appearance of the water will also change, taking on a more cloudy or opaque appearance, and the effect of the chlorine/salt will diminish. This will cause the disinfection capacity to decrease, thus increasing the presence and growth of algae in the water.

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The pH is a basic parameter for the maintenance of the pool, and it is highly recommended to make a periodic control, to ensure that the water and its pH level are within the optimal range. We advise to make at least a weekly reading of its level, acting quickly when its value exceeds the tolerance limits. We recommend the installation of an automatic pH regulator.

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Our 3-year warranty for the cementitious finishes of our pools is conditioned to the proper maintenance of the pH of the water. Complying with the recommended pH levels is essential to preserve the quality and durability of our finishes.

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When we work with pools whose structure is made with formwork plates, we cannot control the depth at which the reinforcement iron is located nor its optimal concrete coating. Sometimes, the vibrating process brings the iron too close to the surface, making it very difficult for us to see. In spite of extreme precautions and applying 3-4 coats of waterproof mortars prior to decoration, if any rod causes rust it could reproduce itself in our finish, as it would also do on the gresite or on any other material. This type of pathology will not be covered by the warranty but will be repaired by our specialist workers.

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The aging of cement over time is closely linked to the maintenance of the pH of the water. This process of degradation of the material, caused by the chemical attack to which it is exposed, can be addressed by draining the pool and then polishing the cement. Under normal circumstances, it is advisable to treat, check and polish every 6 to 8 years to ensure optimum performance and prolong its service life.

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