Can You Paint a Gunite Pool?
- 2 days ago
- 7 min read
Over time, the surface of a gunite pool can begin to show signs of wear. The finish may look faded, stained, or rough, giving the pool an unsightly appearance that takes away from the look of the backyard.
When this happens, many homeowners ask the same question: Can you paint a gunite pool? It can seem like a quick and affordable way to refresh the surface.
The short answer is yes, a gunite pool can be painted. Pool paint can improve the pool’s appearance and create a smoother-looking surface. However, painting isn’t always the best long-term solution, especially when compared with resurfacing.
In this guide, we’ll explain how pool paint works, when painting makes sense, and when a more permanent renovation, like resurfacing, may be the better option for restoring your pool.
Key Takeaways
Gunite pools can be painted, but paint typically lasts only a few years before needing to be reapplied.
Epoxy pool paint is the most durable option, often lasting longer than other types of pool coatings.
Resurfacing provides a longer-lasting solution for worn or damaged gunite pool surfaces.
What Is a Gunite Pool Surface?
Before deciding whether to paint a pool, it helps to understand what the surface of a gunite swimming pool is actually made of. A gunite pool is built with a strong concrete shell, but what swimmers see and feel is a finish layer applied over that structure.
Concrete structure with a finish layer
The gunite shell forms the structural base of the swimming pool, but it isn’t the final surface. Builders typically apply a finish layer, such as plaster, quartz, or pebble materials, over the concrete.
This finish creates the smooth surface and color that swimmers see along the pool walls and floor. It also helps protect the underlying concrete from long-term water exposure and damage.
Why the surface changes over time
Even durable finishes change as the pool ages. Over the years, exposure to water, chemicals, and sunlight can affect the surface.
Common causes of surface wear include:
Normal age and use over many years
Chemical exposure and water balance changes
Staining, discoloration, or rough texture
Surface issues like small cracks, peeling, or flaking
Regular maintenance helps protect the finish, but most gunite pool surfaces eventually show signs of wear.
Because of these changes, some homeowners look for ways to restore the appearance of the pool. That’s often when the idea of painting the pool surface comes up as a possible solution.
Yes, You Can Paint a Gunite Pool
If a gunite pool’s surface starts looking worn or discolored, painting may seem like an easy way to improve its appearance. While it isn’t always the best long-term solution, pool paint is specifically designed for concrete pool surfaces and can provide a temporary refresh.
Pool paint is designed for concrete pools
Specialized pool paint coatings are made to adhere to plaster and concrete surfaces in a swimming pool. These coatings are formulated to handle constant water exposure and chemical contact.
When the surface is properly cleaned and prepared, the paint can be applied directly to the gunite or plaster finish. Proper preparation is critical to ensure strong adhesion and prevent problems like peeling or flaking later on.
Types of pool paint
There are a few common types of pool paint, each with different durability and lifespan.
Epoxy pool paint – This is generally the most durable option. When properly applied, it can last up to eight years and provides strong protection for concrete pool surfaces.
Chlorinated rubber paint – Easier to apply and often more affordable, but it typically lasts fewer years before needing to be reapplied.
Acrylic pool paint – The least durable option, but it can be a quick and budget-friendly way to improve the pool’s appearance temporarily.
Choosing the right type of pool paint depends on the condition of the surface, the desired longevity, and the homeowner’s renovation plans for the pool.
How Long Does Pool Paint Last?
Painting a gunite pool can refresh its appearance, but it’s important to understand that paint is not a permanent solution. Different types of pool paint, including epoxy paint, have different lifespans depending on the surface condition and maintenance.
Typical lifespan
The durability of pool paint varies based on the type of coating used and how well it’s applied.
Acrylic pool paint: typically lasts 1–3 years before needing to be reapplied.
Chlorinated rubber paint: usually lasts 3–5 years.
Epoxy paint: the most durable option, often lasting 5–8 years when applied correctly.
Even the most durable coatings will eventually need to be repainted as the surface ages.
Why Paint Needs Reapplication
Several factors affect how long pool paint lasts.
Sun exposure can gradually break down the coating.
Water chemistry that isn’t properly balanced may weaken the paint over time.
Surface wear from swimmers and cleaning can also cause the coating to fade or wear away.
Because of these factors, painting is generally considered a short- to medium-term solution, while resurfacing is often recommended for homeowners looking for longer-lasting results.
Pros of Painting a Gunite Pool
Painting a gunite pool can be a practical option in certain situations, especially when homeowners want to improve the look of their pool without a full renovation.
Lower upfront cost
One of the biggest advantages is the lower price compared to resurfacing. Painting is often considered an affordable option for refreshing the pool’s appearance without the larger investment required for refinishing.
Faster project
The painting process is also relatively quick. In many cases, once the pool is drained and the surface is properly cleaned and prepared, the coating can be applied in just a few days.
This makes it appealing for homeowners who want to upgrade the look of the pool quickly.
Refreshes the appearance
Pool paint can dramatically improve the appearance of the pool surface, restoring color and creating a smoother look. For pools that look faded or worn, painting can help make the water look cleaner and more inviting, allowing swimmers to enjoy a more attractive backyard space.
Painting vs Resurfacing a Gunite Pool
When deciding how to restore a worn gunite pool, homeowners usually choose between painting the surface or resurfacing the pool. While both options improve the appearance, they serve different purposes.
Pool painting
Painting a gunite pool is primarily a cosmetic solution. A fresh coat of pool paint can improve color and create a smoother-looking surface.
Lower cost compared to resurfacing
Faster project with minimal downtime
Best for short-term improvement
However, paint will eventually wear down and may need to be reapplied every few years.
Pool resurfacing
Resurfacing involves applying a completely new plaster, quartz, or pebble finish over the gunite shell. This process restores the pool’s interior surface and improves both appearance and durability.
Longer lifespan than paint
Creates a fresh, durable interior surface
Provides a more complete structural refresh
While resurfacing requires a larger investment, it often delivers better long-term results for homeowners planning to keep their pool for many years.
When Painting a Gunite Pool Makes Sense
While painting isn’t always the best long-term solution, there are situations where it can still be a practical choice for homeowners.
Older pools nearing renovation
For pools that are already approaching a full renovation, painting can serve as a temporary improvement. It can refresh the pool’s appearance while homeowners plan for a future resurfacing project.
Temporary aesthetic improvement
If the pool surface looks worn or faded but is still structurally sound, painting can provide a quick cosmetic upgrade. A new coating can improve the color and overall look of the pool for a few seasons.
Budget-conscious upgrades
Painting can also work for homeowners looking for a lower-cost improvement compared to resurfacing. While it doesn’t offer the same longevity, it can be a reasonable option when working within a limited renovation budget.
When Resurfacing Is the Better Option
In some situations, painting won’t address the underlying issues with a gunite pool. When the surface is significantly worn or damaged, resurfacing is usually the better long-term solution.
Cracked or deteriorating plaster
If the plaster surface has cracks, peeling, or significant deterioration, paint won’t solve the problem. Resurfacing replaces the worn finish with a new layer of plaster, quartz, or pebble, restoring the pool’s structure and appearance.
Rough pool surface
Over time, gunite pools can develop a rough or abrasive surface that makes swimming uncomfortable. Resurfacing creates a new smooth finish that improves both the look and feel of the pool.
Long-term renovation plans
For homeowners planning to keep their pool for many years, resurfacing provides greater longevity than paint. A new interior finish can last for many years with proper maintenance, making it a stronger investment for long-term pool care.
Renovate Your Gunite Pool with Us
Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living has decades of experience renovating and restoring gunite pools. Whether a pool surface is showing signs of wear or the entire backyard is ready for an upgrade, we help homeowners choose the right path forward.
We offer a range of resurfacing options that are designed to improve durability and refresh the look of the pool. During renovations, we can also upgrade tile, lighting, and pool equipment, helping modernize the entire swimming space.
If you’re deciding between painting or fully renovating your pool, we’ll help evaluate the condition of the surface and recommend the best solution for long-term performance.
If your pool is ready for an upgrade, contact our team to schedule a consultation, and we’ll help you plan the next step for your gunite pool.
Conclusion
Yes, you can paint a gunite pool, but it’s usually a temporary solution. For longer-lasting results and a smoother surface, resurfacing is often the better long-term investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you paint a swimming pool?
Yes, a swimming pool made from concrete or gunite can be painted using specialized pool coatings designed for underwater environments.
How long does epoxy paint last in a pool?
Epoxy paint is the most durable type of pool paint and can last up to eight years when applied properly and maintained with balanced water chemistry.
Is painting a gunite pool a bad idea?
Painting a pool isn’t necessarily a bad idea, but it’s usually considered a temporary cosmetic solution rather than a long-term repair.