Start-Up

What is a New Plaster Start-Up?

A new plaster start-up refers to the process of preparing and maintaining the pool after new plaster is applied. Plaster is a common finish for pool surfaces, and the start-up procedure ensures that the plaster cures correctly, the water chemistry is balanced, and the pool surface is protected. The first few days and weeks after plastering are critical, and how you manage the pool during this time will have long-lasting effects on its appearance and performance.

Why is a Proper New Plaster Start-Up Important?

1. Ensures Proper Curing of Plaster:
   New plaster requires specific water chemistry and conditions to cure properly. If done incorrectly, the surface can become rough, stained, or uneven.

2. Prevents Staining and Discoloration:
   If the water chemistry is not properly adjusted, minerals in the plaster can cause staining or discoloration, which can become difficult to fix later on.

3. Protects the Pool Surface:
   The plaster is still soft and vulnerable in the first weeks after application. Proper care ensures that the surface remains smooth and doesn’t develop unwanted marks or imperfections.

4. Maintains Water Chemistry Balance:
   New plaster affects water chemistry and must be carefully monitored to prevent issues such as scaling, cloudiness, or poor filtration.

New Plaster Start-Up Procedure

1. Fill the Pool with Water:

   • Begin by filling the pool with water. It’s important to fill it gradually, especially if you have a large pool, to avoid disturbing the freshly applied plaster.

2. Brush the Pool Surface:

   • As soon as the pool is filled, begin brushing the entire pool surface with a pool brush. This helps to remove any dust or residue from the plaster application, preventing it from settling into the surface and causing stains. Brushing should be done multiple times a day for the first few days.

3. Test and Adjust Water Chemistry:

   • pH Level: Plaster affects pH levels, often raising it significantly. It’s important to test the pH regularly, and it may need to be lowered to the recommended range of 7.2–7.6.
   • Alkalinity: Adjust alkalinity to the recommended range (80-120 ppm) to help stabilize pH levels.
   • Calcium Hardness: New plaster can raise calcium levels in the water. It’s essential to ensure calcium hardness is balanced, typically between 200-400 ppm, to avoid staining or scale buildup.
   • Chlorine: Add chlorine to the pool to begin sanitizing the water and prevent algae growth. Be careful to not over-chlorinate.

4. Chemical Additions:

   • Acid Washing or pH Reducers: Initially, you may need to add muriatic acid or pH reducers to lower the high pH levels caused by the new plaster.
   • Stain Preventatives: You may want to add a stain prevention product to protect the plaster surface from minerals that can cause staining.

5. Start the Filtration System:

   • Run the pool’s filtration system 24/7 for the first few days after plastering. This helps remove fine particles and plaster dust from the water. Make sure to clean the filter often during this time to avoid clogging.

6. Backwash the Filter (if necessary):

   • If your pool has a sand or DE filter, backwash it regularly during the first few weeks to clear out plaster dust and other debris.

7. Monitor Water Levels:

   • Keep an eye on the water level to ensure it stays consistent. Evaporation can cause the water level to drop, which can lead to surface issues or damage to the newly applied plaster.

Homeowner Do’s and Don’ts During the New Plaster Start-Up

Do’s:

1. Brush Frequently:
   Brush the pool surface at least 2-3 times a day for the first week. This helps prevent plaster dust from settling into the surface, which can cause staining or rough patches.

2. Test the Water Regularly:
   Test the water chemistry every day for the first week and adjust as needed. Monitoring the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness is crucial to ensure a balanced pool environment.

3. Run the Pool Filter:
   Keep the filter running continuously for the first several days to help clear out plaster dust and other particles.

4. Add Chemicals Gradually:
   Add chemicals in small amounts and test the water before adding more. Overdosing can cause issues like cloudiness or scaling.

5. Follow Professional Guidance:
   If you’re unsure about chemical adjustments or maintenance, contact a professional for advice. The first few weeks are critical, and proper care can save you from costly repairs later.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t Swim Immediately:
   Avoid swimming in the pool for at least the first 7-10 days, as the plaster needs time to cure and adjust to the proper water chemistry.

2. Don’t Use Pool Cleaners Yet:
   Automatic pool cleaners should be avoided in the first few weeks, as they can disturb the delicate plaster surface and cause damage.

3. Don’t Over-Chlorinate:
   Avoid adding too much chlorine too quickly. This can cause an imbalance in the water chemistry, leading to potential damage to the plaster surface.

4. Don’t Allow High Water Levels:
   Keep the water level high enough to cover the skimmer. A low water level can lead to equipment damage and prevent proper filtration.

What to Expect During the New Plaster Start-Up

• Water Cloudiness: It’s normal for the pool water to appear cloudy in the first few days after plastering due to the release of fine plaster dust. This should clear up once the filter has done its job and the water chemistry is balanced.

• Surface Roughness: The plaster may feel a bit rough initially but should smooth out over time as the curing process continues.

• Chemical Fluctuations: Expect some fluctuations in the water chemistry during the first few weeks. This is normal as the new plaster interacts with the water.

• Long-Term Benefits: After a proper start-up, the pool’s plaster surface will cure properly, resulting in a smooth, beautiful finish that will last for years with proper maintenance.