You’ve just finished plastering your pool! But you’re not sure how long you have to wait before filling it with water. The last thing you want to do is damage your new pool plaster. So what’s the rule when filling your pool after plastering?
In this article, I’ll answer this and other frequently asked questions regarding pool plaster aftercare.
Main Takeaways
- Filling your pool immediately after plastering is essential to prevent cracks and other damage.
- Once the pool is full, maintain the proper water level to avoid damaging the plaster.
- It is essential to wait for the plaster to properly cure before swimming in the pool. This can take up to 28 days.
- It is important not to heat your pool until it has adequately cured, as this can cause the plaster to expand and cause cracks or breaks.
How Soon Can You Fill Your Pool After Plastering It?
Your pool should be filled as soon as possible after plastering. Pool plaster cures underwater, so you must fill the pool immediately to ensure it cures correctly. This is the first step in the process of properly “starting up” a new pool.
If you wait too long to fill your pool, the plaster may start to crack and peel. Always use clean, fresh water when filling your pool.
Before you fill your pool, you’ll need to:
- Brush the entire pool with a soft brush to remove any loose plaster.
- Vacuum the pool with a soft brush attachment to remove any debris.
- Inspect the pool for any cracks or holes. These need to be repaired before you add water.
- Fill the pool slowly, no more than a few inches per hour. This gives the plaster time to adjust to the change in pressure and prevents cracking.
- Finally, wait until the plaster has adequately cured before swimming in the pool.
What To Do After The Pool Is Filled
- Wait 28 days for the plaster to cure. During this time, it’s important to avoid using any harsh chemicals or cleaners in the pool.
- Brush the sides of the pool twice a day. Keep in mind that at this point, the plaster is still curing and can be easily scratched or damaged.
- Balance the pH levels in your pool. Plaster has high alkalinity, which can cause the pH level in your pool to become unbalanced. Add chemicals as needed to maintain a healthy pH level. The ideal pH level for pools is between 7.2-7.8 pH. You can use a pool test kit to test the pH levels in your pool and add chemicals as needed to adjust the pH level.
- Be patient! It takes time for the plaster to cure fully, so don’t be tempted to use the pool before it’s ready. During this time, follow the care instructions from your pool professional to ensure a long-lasting finish.
Why Should You Fill Your Pool After Plastering?
Filling your pool immediately after plastering is essential to the curing process and helps to prevent the plaster from shrinking, forming cracks, and other problems. By filling the pool as soon as possible, you ensure that the plaster has a chance to cure and harden properly.
Another reason to fill your pool after plastering is to prevent staining. The plaster is still porous when it first cures, which means it can absorb stains from leaves, dirt, and other debris. This can lead to staining and discoloration of the plaster. By filling the pool right away, you can avoid this problem.
Filling the pool also helps keep the plaster from chipping or flaking off. This can happen if the plaster dries too quickly.
Finally, when the plaster is exposed to air, it may begin to release minerals that can raise the pool’s pH level. Filling the pool after plastering keeps the pH levels in check and prevents the water from becoming alkaline.
Overall, filling your pool after plastering benefits the look and longevity of your pool plaster.
What Happens If You Don’t Fill Your Pool After Plastering?
It’s important to fill your pool immediately after plastering to prevent cracks. If you wait too long, the plaster can dry out and become cracked or damaged. Pool plaster is designed to cure underwater, so without being submerged, you’ll risk wasting your time and money spent on the plaster.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take To Fill A Pool?
It usually takes between 24 and 48 hours to fill a pool. This timeframe can be shortened or lengthened depending on the size of your pool, the amount of water you are trying to fill it with, and the weather conditions. Turn off any automatic sprinklers or other water sources before filling the pool.
How Soon Can You Swim After Plastering The Pool?
Before swimming in the pool, the plaster must adequately cure. While plaster can take up to 10 months for the plaster to fully cure, you can swim in the pool after two weeks.
If you swim too soon, you may risk damaging the plaster or your pool, but after two weeks, the plaster will be sufficiently cured. Be sure to check with the manufacturer for specific curing times. Additionally, it is essential to avoid using automatic pool cleaners during this time. Doing so can cause severe damage to the plaster.
How Soon Can You Heat Your Pool After Plastering?
Heating a new pool can cause the plaster to crack or break. The heat causes the plaster to expand, which puts pressure on the sides of the pool and can cause cracks or breaks.
You should not heat your pool until the plaster has sufficiently cured. This can take up to 28 days. By waiting, you ensure the plaster is strong and sealed before adding heat, preventing cracks or other damage.
It’s crucial that you check your pool’s pH levels before adding heat. Otherwise, the water can become too alkaline and damage the plaster.
