Pool looking a bit worse for wear lately? Aussies love barbecues by the pool. But even the sturdiest pool can get a bit sad after a while. The sun bakes the colour out of everything, and the chlorine can be a real party pooper for the surface. If your pool’s lookin’ less pool party and more puddle party, don’t lose your budgie smugglers! Painting a pool is a ripper way to sort it out, and it’s easier on the coin than you might think. This guide will give you all the info you need on how to paint a fibreglass pool, from choosing the right coat to getting a finish smoother than a mullet.
Is your pool ready for a paint job?
Here are some signs your pool might be ready for a fresh coat:
- Colour gone? The shiny surface layer of your pool (the gelcoat) might be faded or discoloured.
- Feeling a bit rough? The pool surface might have a chalky or rough texture – not exactly inviting for bare feet!
- Minor cracks got you crackin’? A few small cracks or imperfections are visible.
- Stubborn Stains winning the war? There are stains that just won’t budge, no matter how much you scrub.
How do you decide on the right paint for your pool?
Not all paints are built the same, especially for a pool! For a backyard oasis that takes a beatdown from the sun, chlorine, and endless cannonballs, you need a champion. Epoxy paint. Here’s the lowdown:
- Tough as nails: Epoxy paint can handle anything your pool throws at it – water, chemicals, the sun’s harsh rays – no worries! It creates a super strong shield that’ll keep your pool looking mint for years.
- Sticks like glue: This kind of paint bonds amazingly well to the fibreglass surface, giving your pool a long-lasting and waterproof finish.
- Colour splash! Epoxy paint comes in a ton of colours, so you can customise your pool’s look to match your backyard oasis dreams.
How to prepare your pool for painting
Proper prep is key to a painting job that rocks. Here’s what you need to do:
- Empty the pool: Obvious, right? You need a blank canvas, not a watery wonderland, to paint on.
- Scrub-a-dub-dub: Get rid of all the gunk – dirt, leaves, algae, the usual suspects. There are special pool cleaners for this pre-painting stage.
- Fix up, look sharp: Fill in any cracks or minor imperfections with a marine-grade epoxy patching compound. Once dry, sand the patched areas smoothly.
- Rough up the surface: Grab some 80-grit sandpaper and give the whole pool a good scuff. This helps the paint stick better.
- Clean up crew: Now that sanding’s done, grab a damp cloth and wipe down the whole pool.
It’s important to note that before diving into this project, it’s crucial to check local pool painting regulations. These regulations may vary depending on your area and can cover aspects like paint disposal or required permits.
What essential gear do you need for safety while painting a fibreglass pool?
Safety always comes first! Here’s the safety gear you’ll need to paint a fibreglass pool:
- Safety glasses (to protect your peepers from paint splatters)
- Chemical-resistant gloves (to keep your hands safe)
- Respirator (to avoid inhaling paint fumes)
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting (to protect the surrounding area from paint mishaps)
What is the step-by-step process for painting your fibreglass pool?
Now for the good bit – slapping new paint on your fibreglass pool. Here’s how to do it like a pro:
- Mask the area: Throw down some drop cloths or those fancy plastic sheets around the pool.
- Mixing magic: Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing the epoxy paint and catalyst.
- First coat FTW! Time to give your pool a makeover! Using a roller with that special pool-safe sleeve, paint a thin, even layer all over the pool.
- Patience is a virtue: Those first few coats gotta dry all the way through before you can add another. No point rushing it!
- Layer up: Slap on two or three more coats, letting it dry in between each one.
- Clean up time: Once the final coat is dry, dispose of paint materials responsibly and remove the masking.
How do you troubleshoot common issues when painting a fibreglass pool?
Even with careful prep, there’s a chance you might encounter minor issues. Here’s how to fix them:
- Uneven paint? If the paint application looks a bit uneven, use a light sanding between coats to smooth out the surface before applying the next one.
- Paint gone rogue? Address any paint runs or drips immediately with a damp rag.
How can you extend the life of your fibreglass pool paint?
So you’ve painted your pool and it’s looking schmick! Now, how do you keep it that way? Here’s the lowdown:
- Chemical chill: Maintain proper water chemistry levels in your pool. Harsh chemicals can break down the paint over time.
- Sun smart pool: Limit direct sunlight exposure to your pool, especially during the peak hours of the day. Invest in a shade sail or umbrella for some afternoon relief.
- Don’t be a leaf-letting loose cannon! Skim out leaves, bugs and any other debris that tries to crash the pool party. This stops them from staining your shiny new paint job.
- Brush up on brushing: Regularly brush the pool walls and floor with a soft-bristled pool brush to remove any algae buildup that might cling to the paint.
- Winter warriors: If you live somewhere with super cold winters, think about closing your pool up during those months. It’ll protect your fancy paint job from freezing temperatures and grumpy weather.
Breathe new life into your pool with confidence!
Painting your fibreglass pool is a top way to turn your backyard into a Shimmersville oasis again. Follow these steps, chuck in a few easy maintenance tasks, and your pool will go from faded to freakin’ fantastic. Before you know it, you’ll be splashing around in a sparkling new pool for years to come!
Feeling a bit daunted about tackling the project yourself? No worries! Sydney Paintmasters are your pool painting experts. We have the experience and know-how to get your pool looking its best, so you can spend less time painting and more time cooling off in your newly refreshed oasis.
Get a free pool painting quote and let’s get your pool shimmering again!