Cleaning your swimming pool surround is essential for safety, appearance, and longevity. The specific method often depends on the material of the surround and the type of dirt or growth present.
Here's how to effectively clean different pool surround materials, drawing information from reliable sources:
Effective Cleaning Methods for Pool Surrounds
Keeping the area around your pool clean helps prevent slips, maintains aesthetics, and protects the surface material.
Cleaning Wood and Concrete Decks
For general dirt and debris on wood and concrete decks, or specifically to get rid of moss, algae, and other growth, the recommended cleaning agents are oxygenated bleach that doesn't include chlorine or a diluted vinegar solution. These options are effective against organic growth without introducing harsh chemicals like chlorine near the pool water, which could interfere with pool chemistry.
- Oxygenated Bleach: Choose a product labeled as oxygenated or non-chlorine bleach. Dilute according to product instructions.
- Diluted Vinegar: Mix white vinegar with water. A common starting ratio is 1 part vinegar to 1 part water, but you can adjust based on the level of dirt.
For dirty decks with more stubborn grime, you can enhance the cleaning power by adding dish soap to either the oxygenated bleach solution or the diluted vinegar solution. A small amount of dish soap helps to lift grease and general dirt.
Practical Tip: Always test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the deck first to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration or damage.
Cleaning Stone, Concrete, and Brick Pits and Pores
For cleaning deeply embedded dirt, grime, and stains within the pits and pores of tough surfaces like stone, concrete, and brick, using physical force is often necessary. Pressure washing equipment is an effective tool for this task. The high-pressure water spray can penetrate porous surfaces and blast away accumulated dirt.
- Adjust the pressure setting appropriately for the material you are cleaning to avoid damage.
- Keep the nozzle moving constantly to prevent etching or streaking.
Summary Table
| Surround Material | Cleaning Issue | Recommended Method(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood & Concrete Decks | General Dirt, Moss, Algae, Other Growth | Oxygenated bleach (no chlorine) OR Diluted vinegar | Test on a small area first. |
| Wood & Concrete Decks | Dirty Decks (stubborn grime) | Add Dish soap to Oxygenated bleach or Diluted vinegar | Enhances cleaning power. |
| Stone, Concrete, & Brick | Dirt in Pits and Pores | Pressure washing equipment | Adjust pressure for material. Avoid etching. |
By following these methods, you can maintain a clean and inviting pool surround, ensuring a safe environment for everyone.
