Maintenance on a Pool's Plaster Finish

Balanced Water Chemistry

• One of the most important steps in maintaining a pool's plaster finish is to ensure that the water chemistry is balanced. If your pool's chemical levels are unbalanced, the plaster may be etched or become vulnerable to algae, scaling or stains. The pH level is most important because it affects all of the other chemical levels in the pool. According to the North Carolina Department of Environmental Health Services, the pH should measure between 7.4 and 7.6. The total alkalinity should fall within the 80 to 150 parts per million (ppm) range. Your pool's free chlorine should measure between 1 and 3 ppm, while its combined chlorine reading should be kept below 0.2 ppm. Test your pool at least once a week to ensure that all of the levels are within the acceptable ranges. To protect your pool's plaster surface, you should also test the calcium hardness, dissolved solids and total hardness levels on a monthly basis.

Brushing

• Another important step in maintaining a plaster pool is to brush the surface regularly. Because it is very porous, dirt and debris can easily become embedded in the plaster. Brushing it frequently keeps the surface clean and smooth and helps prevent mineral and metal deposits from forming on pool surfaces. Even if you have an automatic pool cleaner, you should use a hand brush made of nylon bristles or a composite brush that features half nylon and half stainless steel bristles. Brush all of the walls, floor and steps at least once a week in season. You may notice the water becomes cloudy as you brush away dirt and debris, but it is not an issue if your pool's chemical levels are in the acceptable ranges. Brushing regularly also helps prevent algae from blooming on your walls.

Stain Inhibitor

• Plaster pool surfaces stain easily because they are porous. Adding chemicals that inhibit the formation of stains, scales and metal deposits helps keep your pool floor and walls clean and smooth. You can purchase a stain and scale inhibitor product at your local pool store. Add it to the water when you first open your pool, but follow the instructions on the label for the necessary amount and how frequently you should follow up.

Regular Filtration

• To further help prevent stains and deposits on your pool's plaster, filter it daily. Regular filtration ensures that dirt, leaves, berries and other debris are removed from the pool, so organic matter does not sit on the plaster, break down and leave unattractive stains. Keep your filter system clean as well to ensure that it operates properly and moves dirt out of the pool.