Glasgow had the four-try bonus point wrapped up by half-time at Scotstoun Stadium as Jonny Gray, Mark Bennett, Rory Hughes and Alex Dunbar all crossed the whitewash.
Hughes went over again after the interval and despite a late red card for debutant Langilangi Haupeakui, the hosts were never truly in danger of surrendering their lead.
The Italian outfit got their points on the board through a penalty try and Davide Giazzon's effort and while Townsend admits it was far from easy, he says there is plenty to build on for the near future.
"We're very happy with the result," said Townsend. "We were prepared for a tough game and Treviso really came
into the game in the second half.
"They made it difficult for us throughout, but we played with a lot of pace and skill in the first-half and to score the four tries was a huge boost.
"The changes and yellow cards meant we were never going to achieve the same fluency in the second half, but to get new players playing for the team now, ahead of a busy period for us, is great preparation for the coming weeks.
"It's obviously early in the season, but we're pleased we're in the mix at the top of the table.
"There were some upsets [on Friday night], so to be the only home team to win means we're glad to get the job done.
"Next week will be tough. Scarlets had a great win [over Cardiff Blues] and we know we're going to have to manage our week really well to prepare."
Guinness PRO12 Final 2017 Ticket Information: Fans can save up to 20% on selected tickets, and prices start at just €30 adults and €5 child, and be booked via www.ticketmaster.ie. For further information visit http://www.pro12rugby.com/final
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