Having a pool is amazing, but maintaining it can sometimes feel like burning money. If your pool looks dull or faded, painting it is a smart way to make it fresh again. The good news is—you don’t need thousands of dollars or a team of professionals. With the right plan, tools, and paint, you can give your pool a new life under budget.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know, including:
- The best types of pool paint for different budgets
- Tools and materials you’ll need
- A step-by-step pool painting process
- Cost breakdown and money-saving tricks
- Eco-friendly options you can try
- Whether to go DIY or hire professionals
Let’s dive in!
An Overview of Pool Paint Types
Before starting, you need to pick the right paint. Each type has pros and cons depending on your budget and pool surface.
1. Epoxy Paint
- Longest-lasting option (7–8 years)
- Works on concrete and fiberglass pools
- Takes 3–4 days to dry completely
- Smooth, glossy finish
- Costs more upfront but saves money long-term
2. Acrylic Paint
- Most budget-friendly option
- Dries in 2–3 days
- Lasts only 2–3 years
- Works best on concrete pools
- Great if you’re on a tight budget and need a quick fix
3. Rubber-Based Paint
- Mid-range price
- Lasts 3–4 years
- Dries in 2–3 days
- Works on all pool surfaces
- Less common today but still an option
💡 Tip: If you can invest a little more, epoxy paint is the best choice. But if your wallet is tight, acrylic is affordable and easy to apply.
Tools & Materials You’ll Need
Here’s a list of basic items required for pool painting. Many of these you can borrow or rent to save money.
| Category | Item Examples |
|---|---|
| Surface Prep | Muriatic acid, soda ash (for neutralizing) |
| Safety Gear | Face mask, rubber gloves, safety goggles, long sleeves |
| Tools | Mixing bucket, stiff bristle brush, long broom, painter’s tape |
| Painting | Primer (for bare concrete), epoxy or acrylic pool paint, paint mixer attachment, rollers/brushes |
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Your Pool
Step 1: Surface Preparation
- Mix a solution of 70% water and 30% muriatic acid.
- Scrub pool walls and floor with a stiff bristle brush.
- Rinse thoroughly and neutralize with soda ash.
- Allow the pool surface to dry completely.
Step 2: Pre-Paint Setup
- Use painter’s tape to protect tiles and edges.
- Repair cracks or broken tiles before painting.
- Let repairs dry for at least 24 hours.
Step 3: Apply Primer (if needed)
- If your pool is bare concrete, apply primer for better paint adhesion.
- Allow primer to dry as per manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 4: Mix and Apply Paint
- Mix your paint thoroughly with a paint mixer attachment.
- Apply the first coat evenly using a roller or brush.
- Let it dry completely before adding the second coat.
- Follow drying time strictly (usually 2–4 days).
✅ Pro Tip: Avoid painting on humid or rainy days. Dry, sunny weather gives the best results.
Cost Breakdown of DIY Pool Painting
Here’s an approximate cost range for different pool sizes:
| Item / Category | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Epoxy paint (per gallon) | $115–130 |
| Primer | $45–60 |
| Muriatic acid | $8–12 |
| Soda ash | $10–15 |
| Painter’s tape | $15–20 |
| Brushes & rollers | $20–30 |
| Safety gear | $20–35 |
| Small pool (12×24) | $300–400 |
| Medium pool (15×30) | $500–600 |
| Large pool (20×40) | $700–800 |
💸 Professional painting cost: $2,500–4,000+
👉 By going DIY, you can save more than $2,000!
Money-Saving Tips
- Borrow tools from friends or neighbors.
- Buy paint and supplies during off-season discounts.
- Use store-brand tools instead of premium brands.
- Share leftover paint or chemicals with neighbors.
Is Pool Painting Right for You?
Good Choice If:
- Your pool surface looks dull but isn’t cracking
- You want a fresh look without expensive resurfacing
- Your budget is limited
- The old paint is fading but not peeling
Not a Good Idea If:
- Your pool has deep cracks or major damage
- Paint is peeling in large patches
- There are bubbles or multiple old paint layers
- You need long-term resurfacing instead of cosmetic repair
Eco-Friendly Pool Painting Options
If you want to refresh your pool while being kind to the environment, here are some eco-friendly practices:
- Water-Based Pool Paints – Low VOCs, safer for the environment, lasts 2–3 years.
- Natural Cleaning Methods – Use vinegar, baking soda, or citrus cleaners instead of harsh chemicals.
- Smart Water Management – Collect rainwater for cleaning, cover the pool to reduce evaporation, reuse rinse water.
- Safe Disposal – Take leftover paint to recycling centers, never dump chemicals into drains.
DIY vs. Hiring Professionals
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| DIY Painting | Saves $2,000+, flexible schedule, learn new skills | Takes 4–5 days, requires safety precautions, weather delays |
| Hiring Professionals | Faster (2–3 days), comes with warranty, less risk of mistakes | Costs $2,500–4,000+, less control over materials |
💡 My Take: If you have time and patience, DIY is the way to go. But if you’re busy or nervous about handling chemicals, professionals might be worth it.
Conclusion
Painting your pool doesn’t need to drain your wallet. With proper preparation, the right paint, and a bit of patience, you can make your pool look brand-new for a fraction of the professional cost.
Remember:
- Good prep is 50% of the job
- Don’t rush the drying process
- Eco-friendly methods can save money too
So, grab your brushes and give your pool the glow-up it deserves—without breaking your budget!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cheapest type of pool paint?
Acrylic paint is the most affordable, but it lasts only 2–3 years.
2. How long does DIY pool painting last?
Epoxy paint lasts 7–8 years, acrylic lasts 2–3 years, and rubber-based paint 3–4 years.
3. Can I paint over old pool paint?
Yes, but only if it’s not peeling. Test a small area before applying.
4. How much does it cost to paint a medium-sized pool?
Around $500–600 DIY, compared to $3,000+ for professional services.
5. Can I paint my pool in winter?
It’s best to avoid painting in cold or humid conditions. Spring or summer is ideal.
6. Do I need to empty my pool before painting?
Yes, the pool must be completely drained and dry before painting.
7. Are eco-friendly pool paints durable?
Yes, but they usually last 2–3 years compared to epoxy’s 7–8 years.
8. How many coats of paint are needed?
Usually two coats for best coverage and durability.
