A freshly painted pool doesn’t just look beautiful; it also extends the life of your pool surface and makes maintenance easier. Among all options, two-part epoxy pool paint stands out for its durability, chemical resistance and long-lasting finish. Products like ArmorPoxy’s 2-Part High Build Epoxy Pool Paint are designed to handle the constant flow of water and its exposure to the pool, chemicals and other heavy use material over the years without peeling or fading.
However, applying epoxy pool paint requires careful attention to detail. To help you get it right the first time, here’s a step-by-step guide from prep to cure.
Surface Cleaning and Preparation
The key to a long-lasting epoxy coating is proper surface prep. If dirt, oils or any chalky residue remain on your pool walls or floor, the epoxy won’t bond correctly. Following these instructions on the manufacturing package is important. Usually to prepare the surface, a few steps are involved, which are
- Drain the pool completely and allow the surface to dry.
- Remove loose or peeling paint with a scraper or pressure washer.
- Clean thoroughly using a trisodium phosphate solution or similar degreaser to eliminate oils, sunscreen and contaminants.
- Acid wash if it is required for a concrete wall pool, since it is better to remove any adhesion.
- Rinse well and allow the pool to dry completely.
Pro Tip: Always test the surface by sprinkling water on it. If it beads up, there are still residues preventing adhesion. Repeat cleaning until water sheets evenly across the surface.
Priming the Pool Surface
Some pool surfaces require priming to ensure the epoxy bonds properly. It is always best to have primer in place, especially when people have different pool types.
- Concrete Pools: A primer coat can help seal pores and provide a stronger base for the epoxy.
- Fibreglass pools: Always use a primer formulated for fibreglass to prevent peeling or blistering.
- Previously painted pools: if you are repainting over old epoxy, primer may not be required, but check the compatibility test.
Armorpoxy offers primers that match their epoxy paint for pools, ensuring maximum performance.
Mix the Two-Part Epoxy
Two-part epoxy comes in two cans, i.e., resin (part A) and hardener (part B). These must be mixed in precise ratios for best results. Incorrect mixing is one of the most common reasons coating fails.
- Open both parts and stir separately before combining.
- Pour Part B into Part A and mix thoroughly with a drill and mixing paddle for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Scrape the sides and bottom of the container to ensure even blending.
- Once mixed, the epoxy has a limited pot life. Only mix what you apply within that time frame.
Applying the Epoxy in Coats
Epoxy pool paint is applied in two coats for the best results and performance.
- The first coat starts with the deep end, and you work your way towards the shallow end. Use rollers for large flat areas and brushes for corners, steps and fittings. Maintain a consistent thickness.
- Drying Time: Allow 16 to 24 hours for the first coat to dry (longer if humidity is high or temperatures are cooler). The surface should feel firm but slightly tacky before recoating.
- The second coat is applied in the same manner, ensuring even coverage. This second coat builds thickness and durability, sealing the pool surface completely.
- Avoid painting in direct sunlight, which can further cause epoxy to cure quickly but also leads to bubbles and roller marks.
Curing and Final Checks
Patience is the key during the curing stage. Even though the paint may feel dry, epoxy takes several days to fully harden.
- Light foot traffic may be possible after 24-28 hours, but avoid filling the pool until the coating has fully cured, typically after 5 to 6 days depending on the temperature and humidity.
- Before filling, inspect the entire surface for thin spots or missed areas and touch them up if needed.
- Once cured, slowly refill the pool, checking for leaks or weak spots.
ArmorPoxy Two-Part Pool Paint
Using the two-part epoxy pool paint is one of the best ways to give your pool a professional finish that lasts up to 7 to 10 years with proper maintenance. While the process requires preparation, precision and patience, the payoff is a beautiful, durable pool.
At ArmorPoxy, our 2-part high-build epoxy pool paint is engineered for maximum strength and longevity. With the right prep and application, you can transform your pool into a sparkling oasis that is built to last.