If you’re already thinking about getting your cement or concrete pool ready to enjoy that long-awaited dip under the sun, you’ve come to the right place. At Smartcret, we’ll show you how to paint a pool step by step so you can renovate it with very little effort.
We’ll also share some expert tips to help you choose the most suitable type of paint for your project and completely transform your swimming pool. Showing it off again will be easy, because we’re also leaving you with some inspiring ideas so you can see how it could look. Ready? Then let’s get started!
Types of Pool Paint
You’ve decided to paint your pool yourself and nothing is going to stop you, but do you still not know where to start? Easy. At the beginning! Below, we explain the types of paint available on the market so you can find the one that best suits your needs:
- Epoxy paint: it is very resistant and durable, capable of withstanding almost anything you throw at it. However, on the downside, it is a less healthy option for you and for the environment. In addition, over time, like all epoxy paints, it tends to yellow, even if only slightly.
- Chlorinated rubber paint: chlorinated rubber is waterproof and resistant to some chemical products such as chlorine, as well as alkalinity. What’s more, although drying time depends on each manufacturer’s instructions, it is usually fairly quick: you only need to wait around two weeks before filling the pool again after painting it. Sounds worth it, right? Well, don’t celebrate too soon! It is a solvent-based paint, with everything that implies.
- Water-based paint: odourless and free from solvents — that’s a good start! It is the healthiest and most eco-friendly option, but also the easiest and most convenient way to paint your pool. On top of that, its water resistance is very good, it does not yellow and it boasts quick drying. You’ll finish painting sooner and be able to fill your pool with water in less time. Plenty of advantages that certainly don’t go unnoticed!
Why paint the swimming pool yourself
Say goodbye to that old, outdated pool with pool paint! But to fully convince you to become a true DIY enthusiast, we’re going to share a few key reasons that will clear up any doubts about why to paint your pool yourself.
1. Savings
By doing it yourself, you save all the labour costs, which are usually what make the process more expensive. If you take the DIY route, you only need paint, a few tools... and that’s it!
2. Customization
One of the benefits of painting your pool yourself is that you can create and design the project entirely to your taste. You decide the style, colour and finish and, on top of that, what about the pride of having completed a project yourself?
3. Speed
Painting your pool yourself will always be much quicker than hiring a professional, who has their own schedule and may take much longer to coordinate it with yours.
Ideal weather conditions for painting
When it comes to painting a pool, the weather is a factor that must be taken into account, as it influences a successful or disastrous application far more than it may seem. Painting the pool in unsuitable conditions can cause uneven drying, poor adhesion and even a finish that does not last.
If you want to achieve a good result, the best option is to paint the pool in mild temperatures, between 15°C and 30°C, avoiding very hot days as well as rainy or highly humid conditions, as these would affect the curing process.
It is also advisable not to paint when the sun is hitting the surface directly, since the paint could dry too quickly. That is why the best times of day to paint it are usually early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
How to paint a pool: the ultimate guide to getting it right
Now it’s time to take action. Painting a pool is one of the best ways to refresh its look and get it ready to enjoy throughout the summer. In addition to improving its appearance, a good pool paint helps protect the interior from water, sun, chlorine and, above all, from constant use. With just a few simple steps and a durable coating, your pool will be ready for a refreshing dip.
But before you begin, one small note: the pool shell must be properly insulated from ground moisture to avoid problems caused by water infiltration. That said, let’s get started!
1. Deep clean
If the pool is newly built, it is important not to paint it until two months have passed, to make sure it has fully cured. Once that time has gone by, you’ll need to wash the walls and floor thoroughly with pressurised water, let them dry for at least 48 hours and then apply a neutraliser for alkaline surfaces.
If the pool has been used but has never been painted, you’ll first need to drain it and wash it to remove any traces of mould, algae or built-up dirt. Then proceed as if it were a newly built pool.
If the pool has already been painted before, you’ll need to empty it, clean away any dirt and, if the paint is damaged, remove it and pressure wash the surface before letting it dry. Keep in mind that the cleaner the surface is, the better the new paint will adhere.
2. Sanding and Preparation
Once it is clean, it’s time to lightly sand any imperfections. This will improve paint adhesion and also help you achieve an even, long-lasting finish.
After sanding, remove the dust with a damp cloth or sponge and allow the surface to dry completely before continuing.
3. Primer (Only if Needed)
Not all pool paints require a primer beforehand, so it is important to always check the manufacturer’s instructions for the paint you have bought.
4. Now it's time to paint!
Here comes the most anticipated part: painting the pool. Start by applying a first coat with a brush or roller, beginning at the top and gradually working your way down to avoid marks and drips.
If you use
Smartcover Pool, you’ll get a quick, easy and affordable application. What’s more, two coats will be enough to achieve good coverage and an even result, since it covers many square metres with less product.
5. Drying
After applying the paint comes the hardest part: waiting for it to dry completely, always following the manufacturer’s instructions. Although this may vary depending on the environmental conditions during application and the type of paint used, drying time is generally between 10 and 15 days. Once that time has passed, you can fill the pool.
TIP! We recommend painting the pool on a dry day with a good temperature so the result is even better.
How Much Does it Cost to Paint a Swimming Pool?
The cost of painting a pool can vary quite a lot depending on several factors, such as the surface area to be covered, the type of paint chosen and the condition of the surface to be painted. If you decide to hire a professional painter, the cost can vary depending on the market. In the US, professional painting labour is commonly estimated at around $1 to $6 per sq ft. In the UK, professional painter and decorator rates vary widely depending on preparation work, access and the condition of the surface, with Checkatrade noting that pricing depends heavily on the scope of the job.
On the other hand, if you choose to paint it yourself in DIY format, the difference in cost becomes much more noticeable. In the case of using Smartcover Pool, the approximate cost of painting the pool ranges between $1.95 and $3.07/m² in the US and £1.32 and £2.07/m² in the UK, considering only the product. The final price will depend on the number of square metres to be painted and the tools you need to buy.
In other words, renovating your pool yourself can be much more affordable than hiring a professional. And if you do it with Smartcover Pool, the renovation process becomes not only more budget-friendly, but also faster and easier.
The best colours for painting a pool
When it comes to giving your pool a fresh new look, the colours you choose can make a big difference. Here are the most popular colours for pools, the ones everyone keeps talking about.
1. White for the pool
White is, without a doubt, the timeless colour. It brings a classic and fresh touch to your pool. What’s more, this colour enhances any poolside and garden décor, making everything shine.
2. Blue for the pool
If you prefer a slightly more vibrant colour, blue is also a great option. This shade evokes seawater and clear skies, creating a refreshing space that is perfect for summer days. Did you know that blue is the perfect colour for hiding small imperfections?
Now that you know which colours are the most popular for painting a pool, all you have to do is choose your favourite shade and get started.
Why choose Smartcover Pool to paint your pool
Smartcover Pool is a special water-based matt paint for cement or concrete pools. It is easy to apply and quick-drying, which allows you to renovate your pool without building work. So, in short, why choose Smartcover Pool? Discover the reasons below:
1. High resistance
Our product offers great resistance to water and to the alkalinity of the substrate. While other paints disappear and dissolve as if they had never existed, Smartcover Pool stays intact and ready to withstand every splash.
At the same time as being resistant to alkalinity and able to withstand high pH levels, it is also resistant to chlorine and its derivatives under normal conditions. This allows it to remain in perfect condition over time.
2. Great elasticity and adhesion
When painting your pool, elasticity and adhesion are two very important qualities to keep in mind. Our pool paint is designed to provide excellent elasticity, allowing it to adapt to temperature changes and movement without cracking. Your pool will always remain in perfect condition.
It also has great covering power, which allows you to paint more square metres with less product and, therefore, save money.
3. You can paint your pool even if it has chlorine
When you think about your pool and those hot summer days, you also can’t forget about chlorine.
Our paint is resistant to chlorine and its derivatives. That said, there is one small detail: although this DIY pool paint is highly resistant, you should bear in mind that the type and concentration of the disinfectant you use may affect the paint over time. This does not mean the product has failed, only that a little extra care may be needed.
4. Ready-to-Use paint
This paint is ready to use, so you no longer have to waste time making unnecessary mixtures. Just open the can and get to work applying it easily. It dries quickly, as it is touch-dry in just 30 minutes. After 3 or 4 hours, you can apply the next coat and, after 10 to 15 days, it will be fully dry and ready for the pool to be filled.
5. Anti-mold protection
Our paint contains an anti-mold preservative that keeps all those unwanted visitors well away from the surface. At last, you’ll be able to enjoy a clean and clear pool without having to clean it constantly.
6. Greater protection
In general, pool paint protects against wear, chemicals and even moisture. That means Smartcover Pool acts as a protective barrier against all these elements, taking care of your pool and keeping it in perfect condition for longer. In this way, you extend the lifespan of your pool.
What types of pools can you paint with Smartcover Pool?
Smartcover Pool is an innovative water-based paint for built pools that has been specifically formulated for cement and concrete pools, guaranteeing a perfect and long-lasting finish over time.
It stands out for withstanding sudden environmental changes without being damaged, as well as for its resistance to water, pool alkalinity and chlorine. Since it is ready to use, you can apply it yourself very easily in DIY format.
1. Cement pool
It can be applied withour any problem on pools made of this type of material thanks to its high adhesion. In this way, you'll be able to renovate the pool shell with a uniform and resistant finish that can withstand continuous use, water and outdoor exposure.
2. Concrete pool
It is also ideal for concrete pool, as it provides them with a resistant, durable and highly aesthetic coating. It is a great solution for giving the pool a renewed look while protecting its surface at the same time.
Tips for maintaining a painted pool
Before enjoying your pool, keep these recommendations in mind:
- Avoid filling the pool with water until 10–15 days have passed after painting.
- If you plan to apply any treatment to your pool, check with the supplier whether it is suitable for use in painted pools.
- It is not recommended to place chlorine tablets directly into the pool, as this may damage the paint.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy a spectacular-looking pool.
Get inspired to paint your pool: ideas and photos
Painting your pool means transforming the whole setting. It’s a very simple way to go from just having a pool to having one with real presence. So, if you still have doubts about how to paint a pool and you’re looking for inspiration, here are a few ideas to help you start renovating your pool.
Now that you know the types of pool paint available, the colours you can choose from and you’ve decided to do it yourself, there’s only one thing left to make the most of it during the hottest days of the year: buy Smartcover Pool. What are you waiting for to paint your pool?
