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Paint is one of the most common pool surfaces. It comes in a variety of colors and is an inexpensive alternative to the more elaborate surface options. When attempting to paint a pool, one must first select the proper paint, prepare the pool properly, and follow all manufacturer's application guidelines. With the right materials, and some time and effort, you can have a brand new swimming pool without breaking the bank.
Steps
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Purchase the same type of paint previously used on your pool surface: epoxy, chlorinated rubber or acrylic. [1] X Research source
- Remove a chip and have it tested by your local paint dealer to determine the type of paint that was used.
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Drain all of the water from the pool and remove any leaves, dirt or debris. [2] X Research sourceAdvertisement
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Caulk or patch any existing cracks and holes with hydraulic cement. Follow the cement manufacturer's instructions.
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Clean the concrete surface. [3] X Research source
- Remove any old paint by using a power washer or a scraper and wire brush. Ensure that all loose paint has been removed, then sweep the area clean.
- Use an acid wash mixture of 50% water and 50% muriatic acid to clean the pool surface. Thoroughly scrub the walls and floor with a scrub brush, then rinse the entire surface with clean water.
- Clean the surface again with tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) to neutralize the acid and remove dense areas of oil or grease. Rinse it completely with fresh water.
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Re-rinse the entire pool, including drains, lights, stairs, etc. Pump out any standing water and allow 3-to-5 days for the pool surface to dry. Only acrylic paint can be applied to damp surfaces. [4] X Research source
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Apply the paint with an extension roller. Start in the deep end and work your way into the low end of the pool. Use a brush to cut in on the tight areas around pool fixtures such as lights, drains and valves.
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Allow the paint to dry per the manufacturer's instructions, particularly when using an epoxy paint as timing is crucial to proper adhesion. Typically, you must wait 3-to-5 days for the paint to dry before refilling the pool with water. [5] X Research source
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Refill the newly painted pool with water and adjust the filter and chemical settings to ensure proper maintenance.
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Community Q&A
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QuestionHow long can I expect a high-quality pool paint to last?Community AnswerIt depends on how much you use your pool, whether it's indoors or outdoors, and if you keep the water properties in control. Five years is a conservative estimate.
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QuestionDoes pool paint have a traction additive?Community AnswerNot that I have heard. I used clear sand and sprinkled areas that need traction while the paint is still wet.
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QuestionHow do I tell what kind of paint is on my pool?Community AnswerYou can take a sample of it to get evaluated, or you can purchase a paint that is suitable for the pool and paint over the paint that is already there.
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Tips
- Do not apply paint in extreme heat or cold or in extreme humidity. Extreme weather conditions may result in poor adhesion.Thanks
- Ensure that the paint is thinly applied to a properly prepared surface to prevent blistering.Thanks
- Mix the pool paint well before using.Thanks
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Warnings
- Take the necessary safety precautions when using the acid wash solution, as it may be harmful to your eyes, lungs and skin.Thanks
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Things You'll Need
- Muriatic acid
- Epoxy/acrylic/chlorinated rubber paint
- Paint roller pans
- Paint rollers with extension pole
- Paintbrushes
- Rubber gloves
- Power washer
- Safety goggles
- Scraper
- Scrub brush
- Tri-sodium phosphate
References
About This Article
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Reader Success Stories
- "We just moved to a house that has a concrete pool installed in the 1950's, as nearly as we can tell. It was well maintained until about 8 - 10 years ago, after which it has been neglected to the point that good-sized frogs are living in it and it is so full of debris we can't see the bottom. Your article helped a great deal. " ..." more
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"We just moved to a house that has a concrete pool installed in the 1950's, as nearly as we can tell. It was well maintained until about 8 - 10 years ago, after which it has been neglected to the point that good-sized frogs are living in it and it is so full of debris we can't see the bottom. Your article helped a great deal. "
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"I was trying to find out the type of paint to use. This site explains everything. We don't have the funds at this time, but hope to have our pool up and functioning no later than mid-July. That's my goal. Thanks for the advice."
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"This helped me understand the process of painting an in-ground pool. The instructions made me feel this could be a do-it-yourself project, as long as you are patient and do things right. "
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"It's the best article I've found and the easiest instructions to follow. I'll probably buy the garage floor epoxy kit when I finish the pool. I put this site in my favorites."
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"The article listed instructions in steps and included what would be needed. The steps also included things that might seem unnecessary, but not to a novice."
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