Clean the pool with TSP (trisodium-phosphate)
TSP is a detergent available at all paint and hardware stores. Mix 1 lb with 2 gallons of water in a flower watering can. Pour the mixture onto the walls and floor, while scrubbing with a brush. Rinse with fresh water.
Wash with acid
Wash the pool with a 50% water and 50% muriatic acid solution. Be sure to use the correct safety equipment and procedures. Scrub the walls and floor with a stiff brush or broom.
Rinse the pool
Thoroughly rinse the entire pool, skimmers, fittings, lights and stairs. Drain the pool.
Wash again
Wash the pool again with TSP; this step will neutralize all traces of acid and remove the varnish from the existing paint. Another TSP wash ensures that there is no grease or oil on the surface.
Drain all water and remove all debris
Remove the water from the skimmer and sponge the standing water from the low points around the steps and fittings. Let the pool dry for 3 to 5 days. (Acrylic pool paint can be applied to damp or recently wet surfaces).
It's time to paint your pool!
Remove tile strip, light and fittings with masking tape to avoid painting wires, tiles or fittings. Right before painting the pool, sweep the pool and blow off any leaves or dirt from the edge of the pool. Check if there is rain or strong winds expected. If there is a risk of rain, wait. Open the pool paint and mix it well. Epoxy paints come in two parts, but other types come in one pot. To mix well, use an electric drill with a paddle mixer and mix for several minutes. Paint the pool with a 3/8 "nap roller; a roller with too much bristle will come off. Start at the deep end of the pool, then work to the shallow end. Use an extension on your roller for deep end walls. A bucket and cover is easier to use than a shallow paint tray. Mid-morning is the best time to paint, after the dew has lifted. Do not apply If the temperature is below 50 degrees Fahrenheit or above 90 degrees. Extremely humid weather may cause the paint to not adhere. If applying a second coat of paint, wait 2 to 4 hours before repainting , until it is dry to the touch.
Fill the pool
The last step is very important. You must wait 7 days after painting a swimming pool before filling it, so that your new paint can harden completely. If it rains during this time, remove any standing water as soon as the rain stops. Use a sponge and a leaf blower to dry the pool. If the rain lasts longer than an hour or two, add a day to the curing time. Once the hardening time has elapsed, fill the pool continuously, until it is full.
Resume the normal interview. When the pool is full, restart the pool filtration system and adjust the alkalinity, pH and calcium hardness levels. Resume your normal chemical maintenance.
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