Do you acid wash a pool after plastering?

Yes, acid washing is a common practice after plastering a pool surface, typically carried out using muriatic acid (hydrochloric acid). Acid washing utilizes a diluted solution of muriatic acid to safely and effectively wash away any dust, stains or other contaminants on newly plastered pool surfaces that might remain.

Acid washing serves several functions. These include:

1. Removing Plaster Dust: As part of the plastering process, fine particles of dust may settle on newly applied plaster surfaces. Acid washing helps dissolve and eliminate this dust accumulation for an overall smooth and clean surface finish.

2. Stain Removal: Acid washing can also help remove stains that have formed as part of the plastering process or other factors, by dissolving and lifting them away – further improving the appearance of your pool surface.

3. Enhancing water chemistry: Acid washing can help balance water chemistry in a pool by lowering high pH levels and total alkalinity and pH levels, making it easier to achieve and maintain proper balance in the pool water.

Note that acid washing must always be performed by skilled and knowledgeable professionals who understand its application, as the acid can be hazardous if mishandled improperly. Proper precautions, including wearing protective clothing and equipment, must always be observed during an acid washing operation.

After acid washing a pool, it’s essential to carefully rinse it to remove any acid residue left behind and ensure swimmers’ safety as well as any potential damage to equipment or surfaces of the pool. This will protect both swimmers and surfaces alike.