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Swimming Pool Paint
One
of the most common pool surfaces is paint. Pool paint comes in many different colors, and
is an inexpensive coating compared to other surfaces. There are three types of pool paint.
Epoxy paint, for new construction, fiberglass pools, and pools painted previously with
epoxy paint. It is long lasting, durable and will stand up to UV rays, automatic pool
cleaners and chemical treatments. Epoxy paint will last about 7 - 10 years.
Another
type of pool paint is chlorinated rubber base. Rubber base is not as durable or expensive
as epoxy paint, but is a dependable, easy to use, inexpensive pool paint. It is easy to
apply, comes in many colors and will last about 3 - 5 years.
Last
but not least, is
water based acrylic pool paint. This paint can be used on any type of
surface, is easy to apply, and cleans up with water. This type of pool paint is ideal for
commercial applications that are repainted on a regular basis. It should last about 2 - 3
years.
Whatever
paint you use, it is important to follow manufacture’s instructions, follow
recommended safety guidelines and make sure you prepare the pool properly.
Preparation is
the most important step in pool painting. Without the proper preparation the paint will
not bond with the wall or existing surface.
Common Problems with
Painted Pools
My Pool Paint is Fading
Painted pools will begin to fade over time. Nothing will stop
this, but you can “brighten-up” the paint with a
light acid wash. Acid will remove any dirt and chalking
that can dull a paint job. After cleaning the pool with a light solution of muriatic acid
and water, rinse well and refill the pool.
My Pool Paint is
Chalking
Some painted surfaces will begin to
break down over time. The results can be dull, hazy water, as well as a white powdery
residue that can rub off on hands, feet and bathing suits. To avoid this,
water chemistry
and maintenance are the key. The
total
alkalinity must be in the correct range. At least 150 PPM to 200 PPM. 175 PPM
is ideal. If the alkalinity is too low the pool paint will rub off. Harsh shock treatments
will also cause the pool paint to chalk. Use lithium or a di-chloro base shock for
maintenance. Harsh shock treatments like calcium hypochlorite will contribute to the
deterioration of the pool paint job.
My Pool Paint has
Blisters and Bubbles
Blistering is almost always caused by
improper preparation. The pool paint must be applied to a clean dry surface. If the paint
is applied too thick, or if the surface is too hot or warm, or if the pool is not cleaned
properly, it will blister. Application temperature will also affect the final result. The
only thing to do is repaint the pool or the spots that have blistered.
How to Paint My
Swimming Pool
As mentioned earlier, the most important part of a paint job is the
preparation. There are no shortcuts! The following is a step by step guide to a successful paint
job.
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Determine
the type of pool paint that is on the pool. You cannot paint a pool that has epoxy paint
with rubber base paint or vise versa. You can use
acrylic paint on any surface.
-
Drain
any water from the swimming pool and remove all debris.
-
Scrape
all old, loose pool paint off of pool surface. A high pressure power washer will help.
-
If
there are any cracks in the swimming pool shell, they must be cut out with a diamond blade
saw or grinder. Cut the cracks 1/4” deep.
-
Chip
out any divots or loose cement. Caulk the cracks, and patch any large chips or divots with
hydraulic cement.
-
Acid clean the
swimming pool with a 50% water, 50% muriatic acid solution. Be sure to scrub the walls and
floor and to use the proper safety equipment and procedures.
-
Rinse
the entire swimming pool, skimmers, fittings, lights, and stairs completely.
-
Now it is time to re-clean the
swimming pool with TSP (trisodium-phosphate). TSP is a
detergent available at all paint stores and most hardware
stores. Follow the directions on the TSP container. This
step will neutralize the acid, and remove the glaze from the
existing paint. It will remove any grease, oil or any dirt
that the acid did not remove. Rinse with fresh water
completely. When you think you have rinsed the
entire swimming pool, rinse it again good!!
-
Pump out all of the water and remove any left over
debris. Remove any water from skimmer, and sponge any standing water from low spots around
steps and fittings. Allow the swimming pool to dry for 3 - 5 days. Tape off the tile band
and fittings with masking tape to prevent getting any paint on the threads, tile or
fittings.
-
Time to paint your
swimming pool! Just before painting the pool, scrape any last minute flakes from the pool
surface. Sweep the pool out and sweep or blow any leaves or dirt from the pool deck Check
the weather for rain or high winds in the forecast. If there is a chance of rain, wait
until rain is completely gone.
-
Open the swimming pool paint and mix it well. You will want to use an electric drill with
a paddle mixer. Mix for about 5 - 7 minutes.
-
Apply paint with a
3/8” nap roller. Start in the deep end and of the swimming pool, work your way to the
shallow end. Use an extension pole on your roller for the deep end walls. Mid morning is
the best time to paint. Do not apply paint if the temperature is below 40 degrees
Fahrenheit or above 90 degrees. If you do, the paint will not adhere. If you are applying
a second coat of paint, wait 24 hours before re-painting.
-
The last step is
very important. You must wait 5 - 7 days before filling the swimming pool so your new paint
job can cure completely. If there is rain during that time, remove any standing water
after the rain has stopped. Use a sponge and leaf blower to dry the pool. If the rain
lasts more than an hour or two, add a day to the cure time. After the cure time, fill the
pool without stopping until the pool is full.
-
When the pool is full, restart the swimming pool
filter system and adjust the total alkalinity to a minimum of 150 PPM.
Resume your normal chemical maintenance.
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