Brushing new plaster is not optional — it's the most important physical maintenance step during the startup period. Twice-daily brushing for the first two weeks prevents plaster dust from settling into the surface, reduces spotting and discoloration, and promotes even curing of the hydraulic cement finish.
Why brushing matters
When fresh plaster contacts water, the outermost layer of calcium hydroxide and cement particles begins to leach out and hydrate. This process creates fine plaster dust that settles on the pool floor. If this dust is allowed to sit, it:
- Packs into the porous surface, creating rough spots and discoloration
- Raises pH dramatically in localized areas, causing spotty surface etching
- Creates a calcium carbonate “film” that is difficult to remove once hardened
- Provides a substrate for early staining from metals or organic matter
Brushing technique
Use a white nylon brush only on new plaster — never a stainless steel brush. Stainless steel is appropriate only for established plaster with severe algae; on new plaster, metal bristles scratch and damage the soft curing surface.
- Brush all surfaces: walls, floor, steps, benches, tanning ledges
- Work from the walls down to the floor in overlapping strokes
- Pay extra attention to corners, steps, and any shaded/low-flow areas
- After brushing, vacuum plaster dust to waste (not through the filter) if accumulation is heavy
- Run the pump during and after brushing to circulate and filter displaced particles
Brushing schedule
| Period | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Days 1–14 | Twice daily (morning and evening) |
| Days 15–28 | Once daily |
| Days 29–60 | Every 2–3 days |
| After day 60 | Standard weekly brushing |
What to look for while brushing
- Gray or white dust clouds — normal during the first 2 weeks; should decrease progressively
- Rough or grainy patches — may indicate plaster dust has packed in; increase brushing frequency
- Discoloration or spotting — document with photos; report to the plaster company if significant
- Blistering or delamination — any areas where plaster appears to be separating from the shell; stop brushing that area and notify the contractor
Brushing is free insurance. Every hour of brushing during the startup period is worth far more than the cost of surface repairs or reapplication from a startup gone wrong. Do it twice daily, every day, for the first two weeks. No exceptions.
Want a pro to handle this?
Our CPO-certified techs run this exact playbook on every weekly service visit.