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How to Repaint Your Pool

First off, let us wish you a happy and prosperous New Year!

If your resolution for 2018 is to give your pool a fresh coat of paint, we’re here to help. We’d always recommend getting a professional pool painter in to do the job, but if you’re in the mood to tackle the project on your own, we’ll gladly provide you with some tips.

But first, let’s bust some myths!

Pool Painting Myths

Myth 1: You can paint a pool that has water in it

No, you can’t. And if you’ve bought paint that advertises it can dry underwater… just don’t go there. You really need to make sure to drain your pool a few days before you paint. You need a dry, clean surface to paint on, and the drier the pool, the better your paint will stick.

Myth 2: Your pool is already painted, so you don’t have to prep it

Once again: no. The most important part of pool painting lies in the preparation. It’s true that pool paint will stick to the layer below it – thanks to the special chemicals it contains – but it won’t last long. In a few months, you’ll be draining the pool once again to have another go. So prep, please, because a little extra work will go a long way. For the best result, we recommend that your pool is sandblasted prior to painting.

Myth 3: Any old paint will do

Most definitely not. The incorrect paint will not stick properly to the sides of your pool and will soon start peeling and cracking. Even if you do buy pool paint, you also need to make sure that it’s right for your swimming pool.

Before You Start

So now that the myths have been busted, we know you’re keen to get going. But before you crack open a can, you should consider the type of surface you’ll be painting on, and what type of paint was used previously.

Know your paint type

There are only two main types of pool paints, namely epoxy and rubber-based. Each of these serves a different purpose, and each works best on specific surfaces.

Epoxy paint

This type of paint is typically used on new pool constructions and also for pools that were previously painted with an epoxy paint type. It is suitable for concrete, fiberglass and steel pools. However it doesn’t work well if used to paint over a rubber-based paint, so make sure to check.

Epoxy paint is long lasting and durable, and is well known for handling UV rays, pool cleaners and chemical treatments very well.

Rubber-based paint

This is not as durable as epoxy paint, but it’s also not as expensive. It is very easy to apply, and provides you with a wide range of colour options. If your pool has been constructed from bare concrete, this is the ideal paint for you. Another of its plus-points is that it delivers excellent chemical and abrasion resistance.

It can be used in fresh or saltwater pools.

Manufacturers know best

Whatever type of paint you decide on, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. So many issues can be avoided just by reading the recommended safety guidelines.

If you’re in any doubt and would prefer to eliminate the risk of making a mistake, contact us on 041 712 5231 for a free consultation and swimming pool inspection.