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Frequently Asked Questions About Our Pool Restoration Services

Browse answers to common questions about tile descaling, high heat pressure washing, micro topping, and general pool services. 

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Our services cover a wide area across Ventura, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties. 

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GENERAL QUESTIONSTILE DESCALINGHIGH HEAT PRESSURE WASHINGDECORATIVE CONCRETE / MICRO TOPPINGPOOL STAPLING

General

1. What areas do you serve?

3. How do I know which service I need?

2. Do you offer free estimates?

We service the Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles counties and surrounding areas.

2. Do you offer free estimates?

3. How do I know which service I need?

2. Do you offer free estimates?

Yes! We offer free estimates. The best way to get started is to complete our contact form, and a member of our team will reach out to schedule a visit.

3. How do I know which service I need?

3. How do I know which service I need?

3. How do I know which service I need?

Some issues are cosmetic, while others are structural or mechanical. Once you complete our contact form, we assess the situation and explain which service is appropriate and why.

4. Will I need to drain my pool?

6. Is your process safe for landscaping and pets?

3. How do I know which service I need?

Not always. Some services, such as tile descaling, may only require lowering the water level six inches below the tile line. We will let you know in advance if draining is necessary.

5. How should I prepare before your team arrives?

6. Is your process safe for landscaping and pets?

6. Is your process safe for landscaping and pets?

Preparation varies by service, but we generally ask that the work area be clear and accessible (gates unlocked) and that pets are secured away from the work area.  Once your project is scheduled, we will share any additional instructions in advance.

6. Is your process safe for landscaping and pets?

6. Is your process safe for landscaping and pets?

6. Is your process safe for landscaping and pets?

Yes. We take precautions to protect landscaping, and our processes are designed with safety in mind. We ask that pets are kept away from active work areas while services are performed.

7. Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

9. Do you work with HOAs, commercial properties, and real estate professionals?

7. Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

Yes. We are licensed, bonded, and insured, and we carry an A+ rating with the BBB. Our insurance includes general liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage, maintained at a level considered reasonable within our industry.

8. Do you offer a warranty on your work?

9. Do you work with HOAs, commercial properties, and real estate professionals?

7. Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

Warranty coverage varies depending on the type of service performed. Certain materials and finishes, such as concrete, stone, pavers, plaster, and pebble, may be covered by the manufacturer or installer and are subject to their specific terms. We review warranty details during your estimate so expectations are clear.

9. Do you work with HOAs, commercial properties, and real estate professionals?

9. Do you work with HOAs, commercial properties, and real estate professionals?

9. Do you work with HOAs, commercial properties, and real estate professionals?

Yes. We work with homeowners, HOAs, property managers, commercial properties, and real estate professionals, providing the same level of care and professionalism on every project.

10. How far out are you typically scheduled?

11. Do your services help improve curb appeal or property value?

9. Do you work with HOAs, commercial properties, and real estate professionals?

Scheduling depends on the season and the type of service requested. Some projects can be scheduled within days, while others may require additional lead time. We provide an estimated start window once your project is approved and deposit is received.

11. Do your services help improve curb appeal or property value?

11. Do your services help improve curb appeal or property value?

11. Do your services help improve curb appeal or property value?

Yes. Clean, well-maintained tile, concrete, and exterior surfaces significantly improve overall appearance and first impressions. Many homeowners and real estate professionals use our services to prepare properties for listing, inspection.

Tile Descaling

1. Why is there white buildup on my pool/hot tub/fountain tile?

1. Why is there white buildup on my pool/hot tub/fountain tile?

1. Why is there white buildup on my pool/hot tub/fountain tile?

White buildup on pool tile is caused by calcium and mineral deposits left behind as water evaporates. Water in Southern California typically contains higher mineral levels, making calcium scale more common. 

2. Can calcium buildup be removed without damaging the tile?

1. Why is there white buildup on my pool/hot tub/fountain tile?

1. Why is there white buildup on my pool/hot tub/fountain tile?

Yes. Our professional descaling methods are designed to remove calcium buildup while preserving the surface of your tile.

3. How are your fees calculated?

1. Why is there white buildup on my pool/hot tub/fountain tile?

4: Will descaling make a mess in and around my pool?

Our pricing is based on the size of the pool and any attached features such as spas or raised walls. We assess everything up front and provide a clear estimate before work begins. 

4: Will descaling make a mess in and around my pool?

4: Will descaling make a mess in and around my pool?

4: Will descaling make a mess in and around my pool?

No. We control the work area and handle cleanup as part of the service. You may see some temporary cloudiness while we are working, but it clears once we vacuum and run the filtration system. We also refill the 6–7 inches of water we lower during the process, so your pool is left clean and ready to use.

5. Will calcium buildup come back after descaling?

4: Will descaling make a mess in and around my pool?

5. Will calcium buildup come back after descaling?

Calcium can return over time if water chemistry stays out of balance. Descaling removes the existing buildup, but proper water balance and routine maintenance help slow how quickly it comes back. Many of our customers go years before needing another descale, depending on their maintenance.

6. Can I remove calcium buildup myself?

4: Will descaling make a mess in and around my pool?

5. Will calcium buildup come back after descaling?

DIY methods can help with very light calcium buildup, but results are often temporary. Some abrasive tools and chemical cleaners can damage tile, grout, or strip protective sealants, leaving surfaces more porous and prone to future buildup. For heavier or recurring scale, professional descaling is typically needed to remove deposits safely without harming the tile.

7. What types of tile can you descale?

9. Is there anything you recommend after descaling to help maintain the tile?

8. Will descaling remove stains and discoloration on the tile?

We descale most stone, ceramic, porcelain, and glass pool tile. Each pool is evaluated first so we can determine the safest and most effective approach based on the tile and level of buildup.

8. Will descaling remove stains and discoloration on the tile?

9. Is there anything you recommend after descaling to help maintain the tile?

8. Will descaling remove stains and discoloration on the tile?

Descaling removes calcium and mineral buildup that cause the white, chalky ring around the waterline. Other types of staining may improve, but results depend on the source of the stain and the condition of the tile. We review this during the estimate so expectations are clear.

9. Is there anything you recommend after descaling to help maintain the tile?

9. Is there anything you recommend after descaling to help maintain the tile?

9. Is there anything you recommend after descaling to help maintain the tile?

Yes. Keeping your water chemistry properly balanced is the most important factor. Regular brushing and routine pool maintenance help extend the results and slow future calcium buildup. We are always happy to answer maintenance questions after the service.

High Heat Pressure Washing

1. What is high-heat pressure washing?

3. Is high-heat pressure washing safe for concrete, pavers, and stone?

2. What surfaces can high-heat pressure washing be used on?

High-heat pressure washing uses heated water to break down grime, grease, algae, and buildup more effectively than cold water alone. The heat allows us to clean deeper and more efficiently, especially on hard surfaces like concrete, stone, and tile.

2. What surfaces can high-heat pressure washing be used on?

3. Is high-heat pressure washing safe for concrete, pavers, and stone?

2. What surfaces can high-heat pressure washing be used on?

We use high-heat pressure washing on concrete, stamped or decorative concrete, pool decks, patios, walkways, driveways, and other hard exterior surfaces. Each area is evaluated first so we can adjust temperature and pressure based on the material and its condition.              

3. Is high-heat pressure washing safe for concrete, pavers, and stone?

3. Is high-heat pressure washing safe for concrete, pavers, and stone?

4. Will high-heat pressure washing remove mold, algae, oil, rust, and stains?

Yes. When done professionally, it is safe for most hard exterior surfaces. We adjust the temperature and pressure based on the material and its condition to clean effectively without causing damage.

4. Will high-heat pressure washing remove mold, algae, oil, rust, and stains?

4. Will high-heat pressure washing remove mold, algae, oil, rust, and stains?

4. Will high-heat pressure washing remove mold, algae, oil, rust, and stains?

High-heat pressure washing removes mold, algae, and organic buildup that can make surfaces slippery. Many oil and rust stains also improve. Results depend on the type of stain and how long it has been present. We review expectations during the estimate so everything is clear before we begin.

5: Do you use chemicals during the pressure washing process?

4. Will high-heat pressure washing remove mold, algae, oil, rust, and stains?

5: Do you use chemicals during the pressure washing process?

In most cases, high heat and pressure are enough to do the job. If a surface requires additional treatment, we use the appropriate products carefully and only when necessary. We evaluate each project individually to determine the safest and most effective approach.

6. Can I pressure wash myself?

4. Will high-heat pressure washing remove mold, algae, oil, rust, and stains?

5: Do you use chemicals during the pressure washing process?

While rental machines are available, they typically do not produce the same heat or performance as commercial equipment. Incorrect pressure settings can also damage concrete, pavers, and grout. We use professional-grade equipment and adjust temperature and pressure properly to clean effectively without causing harm.

Decorative Concrete / Micro Topping

1. What is decorative concrete resurfacing or micro topping?

2. Can decorative concrete be applied over existing concrete, and is it more cost-e

2. Can decorative concrete be applied over existing concrete, and is it more cost-e

Decorative concrete resurfacing, often called micro topping, is a thin cement-based overlay applied over existing concrete. Typically applied at about 1/8 inch thick, it refreshes worn surfaces without the need for full removal and replacement.

2. Can decorative concrete be applied over existing concrete, and is it more cost-e

2. Can decorative concrete be applied over existing concrete, and is it more cost-e

2. Can decorative concrete be applied over existing concrete, and is it more cost-e

Yes. Decorative concrete resurfacing is designed to be applied over solid, stable existing concrete. In many cases, this eliminates the need for full removal and replacement, making it a more cost-effective and less disruptive option. We evaluate each surface individually to ensure resurfacing will achieve the desired look and long-term performance.

3. Is decorative concrete a good and safe option for pool decks?

2. Can decorative concrete be applied over existing concrete, and is it more cost-e

3. Is decorative concrete a good and safe option for pool decks?

Yes. Decorative concrete resurfacing is a popular choice for pool decks because it refreshes worn concrete while maintaining durability outdoors. Slip-resistant finishes can be incorporated, and the surface is designed to perform well in high-traffic, sun-exposed areas.

4. How long does decorative concrete or micro topping last?

6. What types of areas can decorative concrete or micro topping be used on?

3. Is decorative concrete a good and safe option for pool decks?

Decorative concrete resurfacing is a durable, cement-based overlay designed for long-term performance. When applied professionally, it holds up well to heavy foot traffic and even vehicle use, making it a strong option for pool decks, patios, walkways, and driveways.

5: Can decorative concrete or micro topping be customized?

6. What types of areas can decorative concrete or micro topping be used on?

6. What types of areas can decorative concrete or micro topping be used on?

Yes, it can be customized with a variety of colors, textures, and finishes to create a unique look. Whether you prefer a subtle, natural tone or a more distinctive design, resurfacing allows flexibility without replacing the existing concrete.

6. What types of areas can decorative concrete or micro topping be used on?

6. What types of areas can decorative concrete or micro topping be used on?

6. What types of areas can decorative concrete or micro topping be used on?

Decorative concrete resurfacing can be used on pool decks, patios, walkways, driveways, steps, and other exterior concrete surfaces. It is a versatile solution for updating worn or outdated concrete without full replacement.

Pool Stapling

1. What is pool stapling?

2. Is pool stapling an alternative to replacing my pool?

2. Is pool stapling an alternative to replacing my pool?

Pool stapling is a structural repair method used to stabilize cracks in a pool’s concrete shell or bond beam. We use the Torque Lock structural repair system, which reinforces the crack with precision-installed steel staples to lock the area together. The repair is then properly sealed to help prevent leaking and further deterioration.

2. Is pool stapling an alternative to replacing my pool?

2. Is pool stapling an alternative to replacing my pool?

2. Is pool stapling an alternative to replacing my pool?

In many cases, yes. Pool stapling can stabilize structural cracks and restore integrity without the cost and disruption of major reconstruction or full pool replacement. It is often a practical solution for homeowners looking to address cracking without rebuilding the entire structure.

3. What causes cracks in a pool?

2. Is pool stapling an alternative to replacing my pool?

4. Will pool stapling stop my pool from leaking?

Cracks can develop due to soil movement, settling, seismic activity, hydrostatic pressure, or age. In Southern California, ground movement and earthquakes are common contributing factors. We evaluate the type and location of the crack(s) to determine the appropriate structural repair.

4. Will pool stapling stop my pool from leaking?

4. Will pool stapling stop my pool from leaking?

4. Will pool stapling stop my pool from leaking?

If the leak is caused by a structural crack in the shell or bond beam, stapling combined with proper sealing can stop the leak. We assess the crack and confirm whether it is the source before recommending repair.

5: How do I know if pool cracks are structural?

4. Will pool stapling stop my pool from leaking?

5: How do I know if pool cracks are structural?

Structural cracks often extend through the shell, show separation, or continue to reopen over time. Surface cracks may be cosmetic. We inspect the crack’s size, location, and movement to determine whether structural reinforcement such as stapling is necessary.

6. Is pool stapling a permanent repair?

4. Will pool stapling stop my pool from leaking?

5: How do I know if pool cracks are structural?

Pool stapling is designed to provide long-term structural stabilization of the crack. When properly installed using the Torque Lock system and sealed correctly, it reinforces the area to reduce further movement and leaking. We evaluate each situation to ensure the repair method is appropriate for the conditions present.

7. How is Torque Lock different from standard crack repair?

7. How is Torque Lock different from standard crack repair?

7. How is Torque Lock different from standard crack repair?

Standard crack repair often focuses on patching or sealing the surface. The Torque Lock system provides structural reinforcement by mechanically stabilizing the crack with installed steel staples. This approach addresses movement within the concrete, not just the visible surface.

American Tile Descaling

2060 D East Avenida De Los Arboles, Suite 489, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362

(805) 794-6820

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