Why Your Pool Turns Green After Stripping Your Deck - And How to Fix It
If you’ve recently stripped your pool deck and noticed that your pool water has turned green, you’re not alone. This is a common issue that occurs when chemical residues from the stripping process, along with old sealer films, make their way into the pool. But don’t worry—this problem is temporary and can be fixed with proper pool maintenance.
Why Does Your Pool Turn Green?
When a deck is stripped of old sealer using products like Cobble Strip or certain paint removers, small amounts of these chemicals—or even the removed sealer—can spill or get blown into the pool. Similarly, if a new sealer is applied and overspray lands in the water, it can disrupt the pool’s chemical balance.
While products like Cobble Strip are non-toxic, non-corrosive, and environmentally safe, they can still throw off the pool’s delicate chemistry, affecting factors such as:
• pH levels
• Alkalinity
• Oxygenation
• Chlorine concentration
• Algae growth
Ideal Pool Water Balance
To maintain clear and healthy pool water, the following parameters should be met:
• pH Level: 7.2 – 7.6
• Free Chlorine Level: 2 – 4 ppm
• Total Alkalinity: 80 – 120 ppm
• Calcium Hardness: 200 – 400 ppm
• Cyanuric Acid (Stabilizer): 30 – 50 ppm
Proper filtration and circulation are also essential to prevent stagnation, which can lead to algae growth.
How to Fix a Green Pool After Stripping Your Deck
1. Restart the Filtration System: Often, pool circulation is stopped during the cleaning process, and once restarted, clogged filters and poor oxygenation allow algae to thrive.
2. Vacuum the Pool’s Bottom and Walls: Remove any debris that may have settled.
3. Clean or Replace Filters: This should be done 3–4 times during the recovery process to remove contaminants.
4. Shock the Pool: Add chlorine and an EPA-registered algaecide like Green Aid from Coral Seas to eliminate algae.
5. Adjust pH Levels if Needed: If the pH is too high, a shot of muriatic acid can help restore balance before chlorination.
Be Patient—Your Pool Will Recover!
With proper care, the pool’s chemical balance will gradually return to normal, and the water will regain its clear, blue appearance. If you’re unsure about adjustments, consult a pool maintenance professional for guidance.
By following these steps, your pool will be back to pristine condition in no time—so you can enjoy the clean, refreshing water without worry!