In the old days, the preferred indulging hobbies during the Roman Empire was to go the thermal baths. Thermae – imperial bath complex – and balneae – small-scaled facilities which could be private – existed throughout the Roman Empire. Baths were highly popular, not only as a socializing and bathing hub but also because they also helped to improve the health of the population thanks to the presence of natural minerals in the water. The thermal waters contained several minerals, such as sodium, chlorine, calcium, magnesium and sulphate ions in high concentration., providing healing benefits to the locals.

It’s weird to think that we’ve gone full circle and reject water that is high in minerals in the bath. Calcium and magnesium, especially, have become modern age enemies. They combine to create limescale, which can have costly consequences.

Even with great care, you have to change your appliances more often

First of all, when you live in a hard water area, it’s fair to say that you’re going to notice white and flaky build ups appearing in your appliances. If you use a coffee maker or a kettle, it will only take a couple of uses for the first signs of limescale to appear and affect the taste of your brew.  You need to clear the build ups regularly if you want to enjoy a cuppa with any flakes in it! But, more importantly, there is only so much you can clean. Ultimately, hard water puts your appliances through a lot of pressures, which means that you’ll have to change your washing machine, dishwasher, kettle or even showerhead more regularly than someone who lives in a soft water area.

It leads to plumbing issues

Limescale accumulates in an area that is in contact with water. While you can see it around your taps, you don’t know what is going on in your pipes. LImescale build ups can partially block your pipes or lead to micro damages, which can only be noticed by an expert – Solex Group professional home inspection provides a thorough plumbing check which can be useful to spot issues. Additionally, the build ups in your pipes reduce water pressure, which means that you need more water to achieve the same results.

You need to buy specialist products

Have you tried washing your hair in a hard water area? It can leave your scalp irritated and your hair dry and dull. If you don’t have specialist hair products, it can dramatically affect your beauty routine. The minerals can also damage coloured and bleached hair, which is more vulnerable. Without mentioning that if you naturally struggle with dry skin on your body and face, you will need to invest in expert moisturizing skin care products.

But magnesium and calcium are good for me

Last, but not least, while minerals are healthy and safe for consumption, you need to be careful about limescale. The presence of calcium in large quantities can cause tiredness, vomiting and diarrhea. If you find that you always have to buy digestive pills, you might want to consider buying bottled water instead of using your tap!

When you live in a hard water area, limescale is synonymous with flakes around the tap and in the kettle. But in reality, limescale is a lot more than mineral accumulation. It’s a money pitfall for your household!