Does your swimming pool look dull and faded? Maybe you see small cracks showing up. A beautiful pool makes summer fun. But an old, worn-out pool can bring headaches. Choosing the right paint for your plaster pool feels like a big job. You want paint that lasts a long time. You need something that resists the harsh sun and pool chemicals. Picking the wrong paint means you might have to repaint sooner, wasting time and money.
Don’t let paint confusion stop you from having the best backyard oasis. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore the best pool paints made just for plaster surfaces. You will learn what makes one paint better than another. By the end of this post, you will know exactly which product to buy for a vibrant, long-lasting pool finish. Get ready to transform your pool from drab to dazzling!
Top Pool Paint For Plaster Recommendations
- 2 part system includes 1 gallon base and 1 quart catalyst. Gallon is short filled to allow room to add catalyst. Finished volume is 1 gallon.
- Must be thoroughly mixed and used timely to avoid hardening.
- Approximately 125 - 150 square feet per gallon
- Results cannot be guaranteed. Digital screens may not show color accurately.
- Acrylic Pool Paint: REHOUPTY Concrete Pool Paint is made from a water-based resin that dries quickly after application and creates an aesthetically pleasing water-resistant finish on concrete pools, plaster or masonry pools and metal pools, reducing the risk of pool leaks
- High Durability Pool Coating: With high strength adhesion, pool deck paint can be firmly attached to concrete pool, deck, or masonry surface, anti-abrasion, anti-impact, resisting long-term pool water immersion, extending the service life of the swimming pool
- Easy-to-apply Fiberglass Pool Paint: No specialized tools required, easy and efficient application process. 13.2LBS / 6KG package pool deck paint covers approximately 270sq. ft. (25㎡) in a single application to meet the needs of different pool areas
- Widely Used Pool Rock Paint: REHOUPTY pool rock paint is a ideal choice for pool renovation and new construction, suitable for underground and above ground concrete pools, water parks, fiberglass pool, water tanks and other scenarios
- Unique Ocean Blue Pool Paint: The blue paint has a saturated and long-lasting color that won't fade even when exposed to the sun for long periods of time, making it ideal for use in outdoor pools
- Ocean Blue Waterborne acrylic emulsion swimming pool paint.
- Use with fresh or saltwater swimming pools.
- Quick-drying acrylic swimming pool paint.
- Lasting color and protection in black, white, aquamarine, royal blue, and ocean blue pool paint.
- Can be applied over most types of properly prepared existing pool paints.
- SWIMMING POOL PAINT: Get a beautiful tile-like finish on your concrete, plaster, or masonry surfaces with Dyco Waterborne Acrylic Pool Paint.
- FINISH YOUR SPACE: Dyco Pool Paint is perfect for putting the finishing touch on your concrete pool, deck, or masonry surface.
- LONG-LASTING FINISH: This durable paint for pools is resistant to harsh UV rays, fading, peeling, cracking, staining, water, salt and chemicals. You can even use it to seal hairline cracks.
- EASY TO APPLY: This waterborne acrylic paint is also easy to apply. Follow all directions on label for application.
- INDUSTRY EXPERTS: Founded in 1967, Dyco developed the first ever white mobile home roof coating and has been making one-of-a-kind coatings ever since. Today, we're a leader in the paint and specialty coatings industry.
- 2 part system includes 1 gallon base and 1 quart catalyst. Gallon is short filled to allow room to add catalyst. Finished volume is 1 gallon.
- Must be thoroughly mixed and used timely to avoid hardening.
- Approximately 125 - 150 square feet per gallon
- Results cannot be guaranteed. Digital screens may not show color accurately.
- White Waterborne Acrylic emulsion swimming pool paint.
- Use with fresh or saltwater swimming pools.
- Quick-drying acrylic swimming pool paint.
- Lasting color and protection in black, white, aquamarine, royal blue, and ocean blue pool paint.
- Can be applied over most types of properly prepared existing pool paints.
- Royal Blue Waterborne Acrylic emulsion swimming pool paint.
- Use with fresh or saltwater swimming pools.
- Quick-drying acrylic swimming pool paint.
- Lasting color and protection in black, white, aquamarine, royal blue, and ocean blue pool paint.
- Can be applied over most types of properly prepared existing pool paints.
- SWIMMING POOL PAINT: Get a beautiful tile-like finish on your concrete, plaster, or masonry surfaces with Dyco Waterborne Acrylic Pool Paint.
- FINISH YOUR SPACE: Dyco Pool Paint is perfect for putting the finishing touch on your concrete pool, deck, or masonry surface.
- LONG-LASTING FINISH: This durable paint for pools is resistant to harsh UV rays, fading, peeling, cracking, staining, water, salt and chemicals. You can even use it to seal hairline cracks.
- EASY TO APPLY: This waterborne acrylic paint is also easy to apply. Follow all directions on label for application.
- INDUSTRY EXPERTS: Founded in 1967, Dyco developed the first ever white mobile home roof coating and has been making one-of-a-kind coatings ever since. Today, we're a leader in the paint and specialty coatings industry.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Best Pool Paint for Plaster
Painting your plaster pool can make it look brand new. It protects the surface too. But picking the right paint is important. This guide helps you choose the best paint for your pool.
Key Features to Look For
Good pool paint has several important features. These features help the paint last longer and look great.
Durability and Longevity
- Wear Resistance: The paint must handle swimmers and pool cleaners. Strong paint resists scratches.
- Fade Resistance: Sunlight fades colors quickly. Look for UV-resistant paint. This keeps your pool color bright.
- Waterproofing: The paint seals the plaster. This stops water from seeping in and causing damage.
Adhesion and Application
- Good Grip: The paint must stick well to the plaster surface. Poor adhesion means the paint peels fast.
- Ease of Application: Some paints spread easier than others. Roller application is common. Check if it needs special tools.
Safety and Appearance
- Slip Resistance: While paint should look good, safety matters. Some paints offer a slightly textured finish to reduce slipping.
- Color Selection: Choose colors that look good under water. Darker colors absorb heat, which warms the pool slightly.
Important Materials in Pool Paint
Pool paints are made from different stuff. This material affects how long the paint lasts.
Epoxy Paints
Epoxy paints are the gold standard for plaster pools. They mix two parts together before painting. This chemical reaction creates a very hard, tough coat. Epoxy resists chemicals and scrubbing very well. It offers the best protection for your investment.
Acrylic Paints
Acrylic paints are easier to use. You often just mix the paint and water. They are cheaper than epoxy. However, they usually do not last as long. Sunlight affects acrylics more easily.
Elastomeric Paints
These paints stretch. If your pool shell moves slightly, elastomeric paint can handle it without cracking. They are very thick and offer excellent waterproofing.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Paint Quality
What you do before and after painting really matters.
Improving Quality
- Surface Preparation: This is the most important step! You must clean the old plaster thoroughly. Acid washing removes stains and opens the pores of the plaster. This lets the new paint grip tightly.
- Following Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s mixing and drying times. Rushing the process ruins the final finish.
Reducing Quality
- Painting Wet Surfaces: Moisture trapped under the paint causes bubbles and peeling. The surface must be completely dry.
- Using the Wrong Primer: Plaster needs a specific primer sometimes. Skipping the primer drastically lowers adhesion.
- Poor Weather: Painting when it is too hot or humid can cause the paint to cure too fast or too slow. This weakens the bond.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use your pool. This helps select the right paint type.
High-Traffic Pools
If you have many swimmers or use your pool daily, choose epoxy. It stands up to heavy use. It resists chlorine damage better than other types.
DIY Projects
If you are new to painting, look for high-quality acrylics or pre-mixed epoxies. These are more forgiving during application. Remember, preparation still takes time.
Budget Concerns
If the budget is tight, acrylic offers a quick refresh. Be prepared to repaint sooner, perhaps every three to five years, depending on the product quality.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Paint for Plaster
Q: How long does pool paint for plaster usually last?
A: Good quality epoxy paint can last 8 to 10 years. Acrylic paints might only last 3 to 5 years before needing touch-ups.
Q: Do I have to drain the pool to paint it?
A: Yes, you must completely drain the pool. The surface needs to be completely dry for the paint to stick correctly.
Q: Can I paint over old pool paint?
A: Sometimes, but only if the old paint is in excellent condition and the manufacturer allows it. Usually, you must remove all old paint down to the plaster for the best results.
Q: What is the best temperature for painting a pool?
A: Most manufacturers suggest painting when the air temperature is between 50°F and 85°F. Check the specific paint can for exact ranges.
Q: Does pool paint make the water feel different?
A: High-quality paint should not change how the water feels. Poorly applied paint might leave a chalky residue, but good paint dries smooth and hard.
Q: Is epoxy paint safe for my pool equipment?
A: Yes, once fully cured, epoxy is inert and safe for filters and heaters. Always wait the full curing time before refilling and running the system.
Q: How many coats of paint do I need?
A: Most modern pool paints require two full coats for deep color and maximum durability. Always check the product label.
Q: What is the hardest part of painting a plaster pool?
A: Surface preparation is the hardest and most important part. If the plaster is not clean and etched, the paint will fail quickly.
Q: Can I use regular exterior house paint on my pool?
A: No. Regular paint cannot handle the constant water submersion or pool chemicals. It will break down and peel almost immediately.
Q: How long must the pool cure before I can refill it?
A: Curing time varies greatly. Some acrylics cure in 3 days, but quality epoxies often need 7 to 10 days before you can add water back to the pool.