Initial Water Treatment
The initial water treatment (IWT), sometimes referred to as an “initial start-up” or “pool start-up”, is a critical final step in the process of resurfacing and remodeling your swimming pool. The initial water treatment will give your new plaster finish the best environment from which to cure and build a strong protective surface layer. We believe this initial water treatment step is vital to providing a longer life and beautiful appearance to your new swimming pool finish.
Once your swimming pool is full of water again, several procedures need to be performed to allow the surface to cure as evenly as possible. The first seven days are the most important in the life of a plaster surface. While calcium carbonate is being formed to harden the surface, dust is created that must be treated chemically and physically to ensure proper curing and exposure. Careful testing, and the addition of the correct chemicals, is crucial to maintain the alkalinity, pH, and calcium hardness during start-up. Re-balancing the water at the end of the procedure must be done carefully so that a “chemical fallout” doesn’t occur. Upon completion of the initial water treatment, the surface is now ready to take on the chemically harsh environment necessary to maintain a beautiful and safe swimming pool.
This process requires regular attention and service during these first seven days. We have a detailed program designed for each type of pool finish we offer here at Alan Smith. Your pool service company professional is well trained and equipped to perform these critical procedures. But, if your pool service professional is not available, or would prefer not to perform these procedures, or if you do not currently have a pool service professional supporting your pool, our team of trained professionals at Alan Smith will be happy to perform the initial water treatment process. After you have invested so much in the remodeling of your swimming pool, you do not want to miss this important final step. If you have any questions about this process, don’t hesitate to give us a call here at Alan Smith. Our team is here to help and support you in any way we can.