Plaster pool start-up guide: The first 28 days

by jason_cramp | March 23, 2024 5:35 pm

Alicia Stephens

[1]

As builders gear up for spring pool installations, it is crucial to remind staff of the steps to protect plaster pool surfaces during the initial 28 days. Proper procedures and products are vital for surface preservation, stain prevention, and long-term integrity.

Ensuring plaster surface protection is paramount in any pool maintenance program, from start-ups to regular upkeep, to satisfy new pool owners and safeguard their investment. Following best-practice start-up procedures yields well-balanced, sanitized water for swimmers and an optimal swimming pool environment.

A comprehensive plaster pool start-up checklist is essential. Tasks include connecting and preparing the filtration system before filling the pool, adjusting return jets for optimal circulation, delaying heater activation until plaster dust is removed, and avoiding wheeled devices during the initial 28 days to prevent surface damage. Additionally, running the pump continuously for the first 72 hours is crucial, followed by 10 to 12 hours per day, ideally 24 hours.

Specific actions must be taken during days one through 28 after completing the plastering process.

Day 1

When filling an empty pool, it is a good idea to test the source water to determine what to expect when the pool is full. The source water’s balance parameters will indicate the initial priorities. Testing for metals is equally essential, as it helps identify potential staining and discolouration issues, permitting preventive treatment before surface damage occurs. If metals are detected in the source water, the recommended approach is to use a pre-filter on the fill hose to pre-emptively eliminate them before they enter the pool.

A pre-filter is attached to the hose supplying source water to the pool, encompassing various options, each incorporating technology aimed at removing metals from the source water before it reaches the pool. Failure to use a pre-filter when significant metal levels are present can easily result in discolouration and surface staining during the oxidation and water balance process. This, in turn, necessitates following a comprehensive stain and metal removal process to restore the pool to its intended condition.

Once the water is covering the entire bottom of the pool, it is beneficial to introduce a scale prevention start-up product. These products aid in minimizing plaster dust by chelating and sequestering the particles released during the curing process. They can also reduce the extent of brushing required to maintain the new surface.

Once the pool is filled, the circulation and filtration system should operate continuously for the initial 72 hours. Simultaneously, the water should undergo testing for pH and total alkalinity (TA), with necessary adjustments made to maintain the desired range. TA should ideally be maintained at 80 parts per million (ppm). Should it exceed this value, pre-diluted muriatic acid may be introduced to lower it. The acceptable pH range falls between 7.2 and 7.6, with achieving and preserving this range being paramount to the protection of the pool’s surface. Elevated pH levels can lead to scale formation and metal staining, both of which can cause extensive damage to the new pool’s surface.

Day 2

On the second day of a new pool start-up, the pump and filter should still be running continuously. Starting today, the pool needs to be brushed twice daily until all plaster dust dissipates completely. Regular monitoring and adjustment of both pH and TA are crucial to maintain the desired readings. Additionally, the calcium hardness level must be assessed and adjusted to reach 150 parts per million (ppm). In cases of low calcium hardness, calcium chloride can be incrementally added in 4.6 kg (10 lb) portions in the morning and afternoon until the desired calcium hardness level is achieved.

Day 3

By the third day, water balance should stabilize, concluding continuous pump and filter operation. Consistent brushing for plaster dust removal and periodic testing of TA and pH should continue. Sanitizer introduction begins with slow chlorine addition along the pool’s edges while the pump runs. Calcium hypochlorite can be pre-dissolved at a ratio of 0.45 kg (1 lb) per 11.3 L (3 gal) of water, or sodium dichloroisocyanurate (dichlor) or liquid chlorine can be added directly. Avoid placing trichloroisocyanuric acid (trichlor) sticks or tabs in the skimmer or feeder due to potential surface damage. Using a floating chlorinator is not recommended as it may cause surface “scorching” due to high chlorine concentrations and low pH. Refrain from adding salt for chlorine generators during the first 28 days to prevent surface damage, relying on chlorine until the transition.

Day 4

On the fourth day, the pump’s operating time can be reduced to 10 to 12 hours daily, although maintaining a 24-hour runtime is ideal. If necessary, brushing to eliminate plaster dust should be continued. Routine testing and adjustment of chlorine residual, pH, and TA should be performed as required. Calcium hardness can also be adjusted but should never exceed 200 ppm under any circumstances. The final step for the day is to add stabilizer to achieve a cyanuric acid (CYA) residual of 30 to 40 ppm.

CYA, also known as conditioner, is essential to protecting free chlorine from the sun’s UV rays. It can be added to the pool as a slow-dissolving granular product or in liquid form. While both are effective, the granular product can be challenging to apply due to its slow-dissolving nature. If CYA granules are broadcast into the pool and do not dissolve quickly, they can potentially damage the pool’s surface. Using liquid CYA reduces the risk of surface damage.

Days 5 to 28

Days 5 to 28 follow a consistent routine. Water balance parameters should be routinely tested and adjusted as necessary, and brushing should be performed as needed to remove plaster dust. On Day 7, any remaining plaster dust can be vacuumed from the pool. A routine stain and scale control product should be added to protect the finish and equipment against metal-based staining and calcium-based scale buildup. This product should then be added monthly as part of routine maintenance to extend surface and equipment protection.

Day 29

On day 29, the curing process is complete, and the pool can transition to a routine maintenance regimen. For salt pools, salt can be added at this time to reach the residual level specified by the salt cell manufacturer. Once salt is introduced, the chlorine generator can be turned on, initiating salt pool maintenance. Maintaining and balancing pH is vital, as salt pool chemistry contributes to an overall increase in pH.

Waiting until day 29 to start the pool’s salt system helps prevent surface damage. Prior to completing the curing process and introducing salt, the pool can be managed through manual chlorine addition via feeder, skimmer, or direct application.

Establishing a path to success for the pool

Adhering to the outlined steps during the initial 28 days lays the groundwork for a prolonged, successful, and hassle-free life for a plaster pool. Maintaining water balance is of utmost importance to prevent surface damage, and it must be tested and adjusted daily throughout the curing process. Using the appropriate chemicals during start-up, rather than reacting to issues as they arise, enables proactive care for each new pool.

[2]Alicia Stephens is the director of training and education for Biolab Inc. In her 23 years with the company, she has focused primarily on education, training, and development, as well as technical support and new product research and integration. Currently, Stephens supports all branding, education, and training initiatives for the Biolab Pro Dealer division. She can be reached at alicia.stephens@biolabinc.com[3].

Source URL: https://www.poolspamarketing.com/trade/features/pool-plaster-protection/

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