The start up procedure for a pool that has new plaster or had the plaster resurfaced is very important to guarantee that the plaster cures properly. Having a professional plaster company or builder to handle this process is the best option but understanding the process and being involved with the maintenance of your pool with benefit your pool’s over all life. Before making any start up tasks on your own, be sure to ask your plaster company for recommendations and be sure that anything done on your part will not void the warranty provided by them.

Steps to Follow During Set Up

1. Fill up the pool as fast as possible without stopping at any time. The use of additional hoses to speed the process can be beneficial. If the pool is only partially filled and process is stopped, a line will be left from the water level and be very difficult to be removed without doing an acid bath. The water from the hose should not spray directly onto the fresh plaster as well.
2. Once pool is full, add a dose of sequestrant for startup. The use of sequestrant is to act as an aid when locating Iron and other metals that are hard to detect otherwise. These metals can cause staining on new plaster that are difficult to remove so by using this product it acts as a precaution for this.
3. Do not operate the heater for a 2-week period after filling the pool. It is typical for new plastered pool to create a lot of plaster dust that can cause clogs in tubing of the heater. By passing the heater will avoid the risk of damage to it during the 2 weeks start up.
4. Refrain from swimming in the pool until the water is properly balanced. After the pool is fully filled with water, run tests using test kits to verify the water is clean and non-acidic.
5. It is best to not use any automatic cleaning system during the first 2 weeks. Proper cleaning by brushing the entire pool twice a day during the first week. After the first week switching to a once a day routine for the remainder of one month should be done on the whole plaster surface. Starting at the top of the walls and working towards the bottom starting from shallow end to the deeper. This process will help with removing any loose plaster dusts left behind from the install.

The above directions for new plaster or resurfaced plaster start up are basic and generic instructions given for any type of pool however there are 3 specific start up methods a builder may use that has separate rules to follow. These methods include; acid, traditional, or biocarbonite. Be sure to ask your builder or pool plaster company for guidance since variations of steps can be done and the professionals are always the best advice to follow for your own specific pool and conditions.

Pound Pool Plastering offers several options when it comes to servicing your pool including plaster, caulk, tiling, cement decks, plumbing, and coping in both commercial and residential settings.  More information can be found at https://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.