Frequently Asked Questions
Everything Lakeway homeowners ask us about pool tile calcium removal. If you don't see your question here, give us a call.
About the Process
How long does pool tile cleaning take?
Most standard pools (60–80 linear feet of waterline tile) are done in 2 to 3 hours. Larger pools with attached spas take 3 to 4 hours. Pools with waterfalls or extensive stone features can take 4 to 6 hours. We give you a time estimate at the assessment so you can plan your day.
Do you drain the pool?
No. Draining a pool in Texas heat can crack the plaster, damage the gunite shell, or lift fiberglass pools out of the ground. We only lower the water 6 to 10 inches below the waterline tile, which is well within safe limits. You refill from your garden hose after we're done.
Can I swim the same day?
Yes. Once the water is refilled and the pump is running, the pool is safe to use. Most customers swim the same evening.
What do I need to do to prepare?
Move pool furniture, toys, and floats away from the deck. Make sure we have access to a water spigot and to your pool equipment. That's it.
Do I need to be home during service?
You should be home for the initial walk-through and the final inspection, but you don't need to watch the entire job. Many customers go about their day while we work.
About Bead Blasting
What exactly is bead blasting?
A controlled process that uses fine glass beads or natural mineral salt (Kieserite) applied at low air pressure to lift calcium scale off tile and stone surfaces. The media is harder than calcium but softer than your tile, so it removes the buildup without damaging what's underneath.
Is bead blasting safe for Pebble Tec?
Yes, when done with the right media and pressure. We use glass beads only on Pebble Tec, at lower pressure than we use on ceramic tile. Avoid anyone who suggests sandblasting or acid washing on a pebble finish — both will damage the surface permanently.
Will the glass beads damage my pool equipment?
No. We capture spent media before it can reach your filter. Anything that does enter the pool's circulation is fine glass that passes through filters without harm.
Are the materials safe for my plants and pets?
Yes. Both glass beads and Kieserite are non-toxic and chemically inert. Kieserite is actually a natural fertilizer (similar to Epsom salt). Glass beads are lead-free and biologically inactive. Neither poses a risk to landscaping, pets, or family.
Why not just use acid?
Acid dissolves calcium, but it also dissolves the glaze on your tile. The result is a hazy, etched tile surface that attracts calcium more aggressively in the future and looks worse over time. Acid is also dangerous to handle and damaging to surrounding plants and decks. We don't use acid as a primary method on any pool.
Pricing and Scheduling
How much does it cost?
Pricing depends on pool size, severity of buildup, and the surfaces involved. We give a firm written quote during the free on-site assessment. We don't publish ranges because pool conditions vary too much for general pricing to be accurate.
Do you require a deposit?
No. We don't ask for payment until the job is complete and you've inspected the work.
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, check, and major credit cards. We bill at the end of service.
How far in advance do I need to schedule?
Lead times vary by season. Spring (March–May) is our busiest period as pool season opens. Fall and winter typically have shorter lead times. Most jobs can be scheduled within 1 to 2 weeks of the assessment.
Do you charge for the assessment?
No. On-site assessments are free with no obligation.
After the Cleaning
How often does pool tile need cleaning?
In Lakeway's hard water, most pools need bead blasting every 2 to 3 years. Spas need it every 12 to 24 months because hot water deposits calcium faster. Some pools with heavier scale, well water, or higher use need annual service.
Can I prevent calcium buildup?
You can slow it significantly. Keep your calcium hardness in the 200–400 ppm range, maintain pH between 7.4 and 7.6, and keep total alkalinity at 80–120 ppm. A scale inhibitor added monthly helps too. You can't prevent buildup entirely in Lakeway's water, but balanced chemistry extends the time between cleanings.
Should you seal the tile after cleaning?
Usually, no. Most aftermarket tile sealants haze over within 6 to 12 months in Texas sun and chlorine exposure, leaving a duller surface than you started with. The glaze that protects properly fired pool tile already does the job a sealer would.
My pool service company doesn't do this — why?
Bead blasting requires specialized equipment most pool service companies don't carry, and the technique requires specific training to do safely on different tile types. Weekly pool service focuses on water chemistry and basic cleaning — calcium removal is a different specialty. Your pool service can continue working alongside us.
Less Common Questions
My tile is cracked or loose. Can you still clean it?
We can clean it, but we won't fix the structural problem. Loose or cracked tile needs a tile repair specialist, not a cleaner. We'll tell you honestly during the assessment whether your tile is sound enough for our service.
My pool has been empty/abandoned for months. Can you help?
Possibly, but assessment matters more in your case. Abandoned pools often have multiple issues — calcium plus algae plus equipment problems plus possible plaster damage. We can address calcium, but you may need other services first or alongside ours. Send us photos with your quote request.
Can you clean commercial or HOA pools?
Yes. We service commercial pools, HOA community pools, hotel pools, and gym facilities. Larger projects may require scheduling around guest use, but we work with property managers regularly.
What if the calcium comes back faster than expected?
That usually indicates a water chemistry problem rather than a cleaning issue. We can suggest adjustments at the time of service. In the rare case where our work doesn't hold up the way it should, we'll come back and address it.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to answer questions before you commit to anything. Most calls take 5 to 10 minutes and give you everything you need to decide whether to schedule an assessment.