Phase 8 — Plaster • Homeowner Checklist • DIY Pools & Spas

Why this phase matters

Plaster day finishes your pool surface and starts the cure. The fill is the most important homeowner task — start it the moment plaster is done, never stop until water reaches the middle of the tile, and don't let the hose mar the surface. A bad fill leaves a permanent ring.

Customize first. Some items only apply to certain projects (spa, fountains, art rock, etc.). Toggle the Project Options below before printing or sharing.

Homeowner

Dig Date

Plan Ahead

Before This Phase

Confirm fence and gate inspection has passed: 5 ft non-climbable fence around pool area, gate swings out and self-latches, alarms on house doors/windows facing pool per code.

Pressure check one final time before plaster crew arrives.

Confirm plaster material selection and ask for a physical sample to verify color before they start.

Schedule your startup tech to come out as soon as the pool finishes filling (within 24 hrs).

Have a clean new hose ready, plus a soft cloth to wrap around the metal end so it doesn't divot the new plaster.

Fill & Protect

Day Of

Crew should lay plastic tarps around the pool perimeter to protect new decking and finishes.

Start the fill the moment plaster is done and do not stop until water reaches the middle of the tile line. Stopping mid-fill leaves a permanent ring.

Do not use the autofill during initial fill. Wait until pool is fully filled.

Place the hose in the water (not over the edge sheeting down) to avoid divots in fresh plaster.

Once the pool is filled, move the hose to the spa and fill it to the middle of its tile line.

Walk-through with sub: confirm fixtures are clean and ready for fill.

Walk-through: confirm umbrella sleeves are in (or roto-hammered in if added late).

Walk-through: confirm spa jet fittings are labeled and matched per the plumbing record.

Optional

Pro Tips

Provide a clean area for the plaster crew to wash buckets and tools — keeps your landscaping safe.

Take photos of the labeled jet fittings so you have a record of which goes where.

Have the startup tech's number ready and call as soon as pool is 90% full.

Pay your water bill on time — running out mid-fill is the kind of horror story you don't want.

Optional

Notes

Plaster done. Pool is filling.

Stay on the fill until the water hits the tile line. Call your startup tech the moment it's full.