Why Painting Your Pool Plaster Is a Bad Idea — And What Panama City Homeowners Should Do Instead
Painting over pool plaster may look quick and cheap, but it leads to costly damage. Learn better options from ASP – America’s Swimming Pool Company of Panama City.
A Quick Fix That Creates Big Problems
If your pool’s surface looks dull or stained, it might be tempting to grab a can of pool paint and give it a facelift. Many Panama City homeowners have seen those “budget fix” videos online — but what they don’t show you is the aftermath. Painting over plaster is one of the most common mistakes in pool renovation because it often creates far more damage than it fixes.
Why Painting Over Plaster Doesn’t Work Long-Term
Paint isn’t designed to bond with aged or porous plaster. Within a few months, moisture starts to seep underneath, causing bubbling, flaking, and discoloration. In Panama City’s humid coastal climate, this process happens even faster. Once the bond fails, the only fix is a full resurfacing — which means the money you spent on paint (and labor) is wasted.
Plaster Needs to Breathe — Paint Traps Moisture
The plaster surface of your pool is porous by design. It allows a controlled exchange of minerals and water chemistry. When you seal that surface with paint, the trapped moisture expands under the coating, weakening both the plaster and the structure beneath. Over time, this can cause hollow spots, chipping, and even leaks.
What You Should Do Instead: Professional Replastering with Wet Edge Finishes
If your pool looks tired or rough, the best solution is professional resurfacing. ASP – America’s Swimming Pool Company of Panama City offers long-lasting options like new white plaster or Wet Edge Finishes — a high-performance, durable surface that provides the look of natural stone with superior resistance to chemicals, staining, and wear. These finishes restore beauty and protect the shell for years to come — no peeling paint, no weekly touch-ups, and no wasted money.
For example, we recently helped a homeowner right here in Panama City Beach who had painted their pool multiple times. After stripping off the old layers and installing a Wet Edge finish, their pool looked brand new and required far less maintenance.
How to Know When It’s Time to Resurface
- Your pool’s surface feels rough on your feet
- You notice stains or uneven color
- You see cracks or small pits appearing
- Paint is peeling or flaking off in spots
If you notice these signs, call our renovation experts before it worsens. Our team can inspect your pool, explain your options, and provide a clear estimate so you know exactly what to expect.
The ASP Advantage in Panama City
As part of the nation’s largest pool service franchise, ASP – America’s Swimming Pool Company of Panama City brings local expertise with professional-grade results. We handle everything from draining and prep work to plaster application and startup chemistry. That means no surprises, no cutting corners, and a pool surface that lasts.
Ready to Breathe New Life Into Your Pool?
Painting might seem like a shortcut, but it rarely saves money in the long run. Replastering or resurfacing with a Wet Edge Finish gives your pool a surface that stands up to Florida’s sun, salt, and humidity. Call ASP – America’s Swimming Pool Company of Panama City today to schedule your free renovation quote and discover the right surface option for your backyard oasis.