Etching & Scale: Why Your Pool Looks Blotchy

September 27, 2025

Noticing blotchy or uneven areas on your pool surface? The most common culprits are scale buildup and spot etching—two forms of discoloration often caused by unbalanced pool water. When water chemistry is too aggressive, it can draw pigment from the finish, resulting in dull, etched spots. On the other hand, excessively high pH, calcium hardness, and total alkalinity levels can lead to scale deposits that create a rough, blotchy appearance. To prevent these issues, it’s essential to maintain proper water balance. We recommend regularly testing your water using an LSI (Langelier Saturation Index) calculator to keep conditions within the ideal range. ?? Please note: Scale or etching damage is not covered under the Wet Edge Technologies warranty.