How to Prevent Peeling and Fading in Painted Pools

Keep Your Pool Looking Fresh All Year Round

There’s nothing more satisfying than the look of a freshly painted pool — that glossy, vibrant finish reflecting the Australian sun. But over time, some pool owners notice peeling, flaking, or fading paint. The good news? With the right preparation and maintenance, you can easily prevent these issues and keep your Luxapool® coating looking brand new for years.

1. Proper Surface Preparation Is Everything

The number one cause of peeling and poor adhesion is inadequate surface preparation. If the pool surface isn’t properly cleaned, repaired, and primed, the paint won’t bond effectively.

Always start by removing old, loose paint and repairing any cracks or imperfections before applying a new coat.
👉 Follow our detailed Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Pool to ensure your surface is ready for painting success.

2. Choose the Right Paint for Your Pool Type

Not all pool paints are compatible with every surface. For instance:

• Epoxy pool paint works best for bare concrete, fibreglass, pebblecrete, or marblesheen surfaces.

• Chlorinated rubber paint should only be used over previous chlorinated rubber finishes.

Mixing incompatible paint types can cause early failure, bubbling, or peeling. Always check your pool’s existing coating before selecting your next product.

3. Allow Proper Curing Time

Even the best paint won’t last if you refill your pool too early.
Each coating needs time to harden and chemically bond with the surface. Epoxy paints generally need 7 days to cure, while chlorinated rubber paints require around 5 days.

Skipping this step can trap moisture beneath the paint, leading to blistering and flaking within weeks of application.

4. Maintain Balanced Water Chemistry

Unbalanced pool water is one of the fastest ways to cause fading or surface degradation.
Aim for these target ranges:

• pH: 7.2–7.8
• Chlorine: 1–3 ppm
• Total Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm

Consistent water balance prevents chalking, discolouration, and premature paint breakdown — particularly important in Australia’s hot climate.

5. Repair Small Issues Before They Spread

Minor cracks or chips may seem harmless, but they allow water to seep underneath the coating, causing peeling over time. Regularly inspect your pool and address these problems early using high-quality repair products.

👉 Explore our Sealers & Repairs Collection for the right materials to maintain your painted surface and extend its lifespan.

6. Protect Against Harsh UV Exposure

The Australian sun is powerful — and over time, UV rays can fade even the most vibrant colours.
Choose UV-stable paints like Luxapool® Epoxy, which are engineered to resist fading and chalking. You can also reduce UV impact by maintaining proper water levels and using light-coloured pool surroundings to reflect heat.

7. Regular Cleaning Makes a Difference

Dirt, debris, and algae buildup not only make your pool look dull but can also degrade the paint surface.
Gently brush your pool weekly, especially in shaded areas, to keep your finish bright and smooth.

Enjoy a Long-Lasting, Vibrant Pool Finish

By preparing thoroughly, maintaining balanced water, and addressing issues early, you can enjoy a flawless pool surface that lasts for years. Luxapool® paints are made to withstand Australia’s demanding conditions — and with a little care, your pool will continue to look stunning every summer.

Need expert advice on choosing or maintaining the right paint for your pool?

👉 Contact our team today for personalised guidance and product recommendations.