Paint a Pool Slide in 5 Steps

The best part about a pool party is the water slide. Get yours ready for summer barbecues with a fresh coat of paint. Follow these five simple steps and you will be making a splash again in no time!

Preparation

Surface preparation is critical when painting a pool slide or swimming pool, and if it's done poorly you’ll almost certainly have problems. For the best results, make sure to paint when the weather conditions are right. This means low humidity, low chance of rain, and temperatures between 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Painting in cooler temperatures will hamper proper drying, aesthetic appearance, and can lead to peeling. Too hot and it dries too fast.

If more than a quarter of the existing paint surface is already peeling, then you might need to think about removing the entire surface by sandblasting before moving onto the next step.

Clean the Pool Slide

First, remove any dirt and loose paint with a pressure washer. This should be no less than 2000 psi. Let the surface dry thoroughly. Most pool slides are made from fiberglass, so you’ll then need to scrub the surface with TSP (Trisodium phosphate). This acid wash will remove all mildew, stains, grease, and dirt. Be sure to avoid contact with skin and eyes, wear chemical resistant gloves and goggles, and use it in a well-ventilated area — preferably outdoors.

If you prefer not to work with TSP, Ramuc offers a Clean and Prep Solution that works well and eliminates the need for the difficulties that come with acid washing.

Repair Cracks

Now that the surface is prepared you can touch up any cracks that might be a problem. Fill in the gaps using a marine-type fiberglass epoxy putty and a putty knife.

Choosing Paint

Choose an epoxy paint that is suitable for fiberglass. Both Ramuc Type EP Epoxy or EP High Build Epoxy is good for painting pool slides. If applied correctly, high-build epoxies will last eight years or longer. There's a vast selection of colors to choose from, and it forms an abrasion-resistant surface that’s easy to clean.

Painting the Pool Slide

You will again need proper ventilation when working with epoxy paint. Avoid direct contact and make sure to use quality tools. Follow the manufacturer's directions carefully regarding the quantity and application of your pool slide paint. Too thin a coat will not give your slide the weather protection or slickness required for proper use and enjoyment. A coat that's too thick will result in bubbles, blisters, and having to redo the entire project.

The good news is you can use a roller for both coats, but be sure to wait at least 15 to 75 hours before adding the second coat.

Now all that’s left to do is enjoy the ride. Don’t forget to allow the paint to cure for at least five days before you take your new pool slide for its first test run.