Winter is (slowly) ending, meaning that now is the perfect time to look at Swimming Pool maintenance for the summer. I know it’s hard to think about preparing for summer when it’s still cold outside, but you need to. Doing the painting and the preparation is relatively easy, but it needs to be done properly.
Prep your Pool
As always, preparation is of the utmost importance. If the prep isn’t done correctly then you run the risk of the paint not adhering to the surface, which can create chipping, bubbles or chalking. Or you risk the end result not lasting as long because issues arise underneath the paint. So start as you mean to go on.
The amount of preparation will depend on the condition of the pool. For pools in extreme disrepair, it might be necessary to sandblast the interior and carry out any repairs to any cracks. For most pools that are in good condition it is a matter of ensuring that mould, oil stains and other imperfections are removed. Be aware that the moisture content of concrete should be below 14% prior to application of any coating.
All pools should be thoroughly cleaned and degreased prior to painting. We would highly recommend using a pressure washer if you can.
If there are any cracks or holes in the pool, then there are a couple of products that you can use to fix the problem before painting. Cracks and holes in pools are usually relatively small, so use a fine crack repair to get the surface to a paintable condition. If the holes are any larger than this then please call our technical team for more in depth advice.
Selecting the right Paint
Most paints are not designed to be constantly submerged under water, meaning that when you’re painting a swimming pool you have to be careful what you choose. There are 2 types of paint to choose from: 2-pack epoxies, or chlorinated rubber based paints. Both will work, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind when selecting your system.
If the pool has been Previously Painted then it needs to be overcoated in the same product. Epoxies and chlorinated rubbers are not compatible with each other, so if your pool has been painted before then you need to find out what it has been painted with. The easiest way to do this is with a “solvent test”. It’s very easy to do. Take a strong solvent like acetone on a rag, and hold it (or secure it in someway) to the wall or floor of the pool for around 3 minutes. If when you take the rag away the paint is coming away from the wall with an almost stringy appearance to it, then you know it’s a chlorinated rubber. If the paint seems unaffected by the test then it is most likely to be an epoxy coating on there. Whichever it is, you need to use the same again.
If there pool has not been Previously painted then you can choose the paint system that works best for you. Chlorinated Rubber paints like Mathys Fassiclor are less expensive than Epoxy paints, and their lifespan in a pool is around 3-5 years. They’re not as durable as epoxy paints, and therefore the system does not last as long. If you choose to go for an Epoxy system then we recommend Rust-Oleum 5401, followed my Rust-Oleum 5500. This is the ideal system for painting a pool, and it will give you the best, longest lasting results. Typically the Epoxy system will last between 7-10 years, and it will resist chemicals, stains and abrasion.
Keep it lasting for longer
Once painted you need to leave the surface for 7 to 10 days before filling the pool with water again. If you don’t wait for the paint to fully cure then the paint will bubble and fail.
Despite the fact that these paints are submerged under water, the methods for keeping the in good condition are very much the same as for most surfaces. The paints are designed to remain submerged for long periods of time, and the 5500 even has hygiene approval which can help to keep the pool hygienic. Maintaining them is simply a matter of ensuring the surface doesn’t have prolonged exposure to damaging chemicals, and upholding general cleaning and maintenance of the surface.
If you have any questions, or if you want any further help in painting your pool then please call our technical team on 01902 429190.