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Painting Pools and Decks – Rejuvenate Your Backyard Space

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Painting Pools and Decks - Rejuvenate Your Backyard Space

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most pool owners are now looking to remodel their pools and upgrade their outdoor living spaces. Even so, we all know how pool renovations like replastering and replacing the finish material can be expensive and time-consuming. So, painting pools and decks instead may be a good idea. Although pool paint won’t last as long as most pool finish materials, it will help you save a few coins. Besides, a wide range of paint coatings come in different colors; consequently, you can use paint to boost your pool’s aesthetics. Today, the most common pain options are acrylic paint, rubber, and epoxy.

A Guide to Painting Pools and Decks

Painting pools and decks is important

Choosing the right pool paint

Selecting the right pool paint can be challenging even for pool experts. I mean, you want to make sure that you choose a pool paint that will cater to all your requirements and offer high longevity. Before buying any pool paint, take time to understand each of its unique advantages and disadvantages.

Rubber-Based Paints

Advantages

Rubber-based paints are user-friendly and affordable. Thus, they are the most popular pool paint option today. Additionally, chlorinated rubber coatings serve as an ideal protective layer for previously painted surfaces. You can use rubber-based paints on concrete and plaster. Based on their price, rubber-based paint offers durability; experts say they last for about 4 to 5 years. Moreover, synthetic rubber coatings can get applied to concrete, rubber systems, and plaster. They can last for three years.

Skimmer

Disadvantages

Despite being the most popular option, rubber-based paints do not work well on wet surfaces. And this might not be possible since it means that you have to leave the pool without water for about a week.

The other disadvantage is that rubber-based paints can cause blisters when applied on a scorching day. So, you have to wait for a chilly day to use rubber-based paint. Undoubtedly, this can be time-consuming.

Rubber-based paints have a strong smell since they have strong solvents. And this can lead to severe headaches and nausea during the application, especially if you are allergic and sensitive to smells.

Epoxy Coatings

Advantages

Over the years, epoxy has become a popular pool paint alternative among most homeowners. Epoxy is solid, thus offers maximum longevity. Also, this coating is highly resistant to harsh chemicals and corrosion. On average, epoxy can last from five to eight years.

Disadvantages

Sadly, you cannot apply epoxy over acrylic and rubber coatings. Epoxy paint can only get applied over epoxy coatings. Also, during the application, you need to use a primer when the surface does not contain any existing layer. And this causes you to use more time, money, and effort during application.

Water-Based Acrylics

Advantages

Generally, water-based acrylic paints are super convenient to use. You can apply them even on wet surfaces and get impressive outcomes. Water-based acrylics are also eco-friendly and safe to use. Unlike epoxy, they do not incorporate strong solvents that lead to nausea or headaches. You can also apply water-based acrylic paint over almost all coatings and are budget-friendly.

Disadvantages

The most common drawback of water-based acrylic paint is that it does not offer high durability. Also, water-based acrylic paints do not work well with epoxy coatings. Thus, you will have to find a way to eliminate the epoxy coating before applying water-based acrylic paint.

Paint Selection

Choosing the right paint for painting pools and decks also entails identifying the type of coating available on the pool. The majority of pools often have multiple layers. Thus, like a pool pro, you have to conduct a free paint chip analysis. This way, you’ll know the best paint products to use for your pool.

Prep the pool surface

Before painting pools and decks, it would be best to ensure that you have an even and clean surface. Get rid of any peeling and flakes on the surface. Also, clean the pool surface by eliminating all loose dirt particles and grease particles. This way, you reduce the time and effort used to apply the pool paint.

Applying the paint

During application, follow all the manufacturer’s instructions. Applying many coatings would lead to blistering. On the other hand, using minimal layers does not guarantee durability. Also, always paint the pool when temperatures are above 50 F and below 85 F. Otherwise, the paint won’t cure properly. Moreover, avoid painting under direct sunlight since this will affect the curing process and lead to bubbles and blisters.

After application, you have to leave the paint to cure for the recommended time. Avoid refilling the pool immediately. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to find out how long you should let the paint dry.

Faster renovations and less pool maintenance

Ultimately, painting pools and decks is a cost-effective way to boost the yard’s aesthetics. Besides, pool paint only requires fewer maintenance practices. All you have to do is select the most appropriate paint for the pool. Consequently, you’ll deliver 100% satisfaction for all your clients.

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Pool News coverage brought to you by Pool Magazine's own Marcus Packer. Marcus Packer is a 20 year pool industry veteran pool builder and pool service technician. In addition to being a swimming pool professional, Marcus has been a writer and long time contributor for Newsweek Magazine's home improvement section and more recently for Florida Travel + Life. Have a story idea or tip you'd like to share with Pool Magazine? Email [email protected] your story idea.

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Dr. Adam Katchmarchi Joins PHTA as VP of Educational Development

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(Alexandria, Va.) – The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), the trade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub, and spa industry, is pleased to announce that Dr. Adam Katchmarchi (Ph.D.) has joined the organization as Vice President of Educational Development. Dr. Katchmarchi begins his role effective July 1, 2025.

As Vice President of Educational Development, Dr. Katchmarchi will collaborate closely with PHTA staff, partners, and industry professionals to enhance and expand PHTA’s educational programming. His primary responsibilities will include developing innovative courses and trainings, elevating the quality and accessibility of educational content, and fostering strategic partnerships aimed at enriching industry-wide professional development. He will coordinate closely with Jeanne Mendelson, Vice President of Educational Operations & Sales, to lead PHTA educational programs and services.

“I am extremely honored and excited to join the incredible team at the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance in this role,” says Dr. Katchmarchi. “I look forward to leveraging my background in aquatics education and water safety advocacy to support PHTA’s mission. Together, we will deliver high-caliber, impactful educational opportunities that help our members thrive professionally and enhance industry standards.”

CPO Class - Virtual Online Classes - Become a Certified Pool Operator

Dr. Katchmarchi brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new position. Prior to joining PHTA, he served as the Chief Executive Officer of the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA), where he successfully implemented national initiatives focused on water safety awareness and drowning prevention. His leadership facilitated transformative partnerships across the public and private sectors, significantly advancing water safety education.

In addition to his executive experience, Dr. Katchmarchi was a tenured Associate Professor in the Department of Allied and Public Health at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), a position he held from 2014 to 2025. An accomplished educator and researcher, Dr. Katchmarchi has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and frequently presents at both national and international conferences.

Dr. Katchmarchi earned his Ph.D. in Coaching and Teaching Studies from West Virginia University, with research specializing in water safety education. He also holds a Master of Science in Sport Management from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Slippery Rock University, both with focuses on aquatics and aquatic safety.

“Dr. Katchmarchi is an exceptional addition to our leadership team,” says Sabeena Hickman, CAE, President & CEO of PHTA. “His distinguished career and dedication to aquatic safety, education, and advocacy make him ideally suited to elevate PHTA’s educational initiatives. We are excited about the impact he will have on our members and the industry as a whole.”

For more information, please contact Amy Willer, PHTA’s Director of Content and Communications, at [email protected] or 703-838-0083, ext. 121.

About the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), a non-profit organization with 4,000 members from around the world, was established in 1956 to support, promote, and protect the common interests of the $62B pool, hot tub, and spa industry. PHTA provides education, advocacy, standards development, research, and market growth initiatives to increase our members’ professionalism, knowledge, and profitability. Additionally, PHTA promotes the use of pools by expanding swimming, water safety, and related research and outreach activities aimed at introducing more people to swimming, making swimming environments safer, and keeping pools open to serve communities. For more information, visit www.phta.org.

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CCEI Taps Martin Grenier to Head North American Operations

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CCEI, is pleased to announce the hiring of Martin Grenier to head their North American operations. Martin has over 10 years of experience in the swimming pool industry having worked for Hayward for over 7 years plus other positions in both retail and distribution. CCEI is a manufacturer of automation and controller systems in the US as well as lighting systems in Canada, Mexico, Europe and Africa with its head office located in France.  

Martin is now responsible for operations and sales for both the company’s US and Canadian markets and is also charged with raising brand and product awareness of CCEI’s products throughout the North American pool industry. “As an established supplier in Europe, we are focused on raising awareness of our products and services with pool builders, retailers and distributors, while also working to form strategic partnerships in the US and Canada,” says Grenier.  A native of Canada, Martin is also fluent in English and French. “Martin has already made a significant impact in the Canadian swimming pool market and we are confident CCEI will continue to experience exponential growth in sales of our products in both the US and Canadian markets,” says Sébastian Chéreau, Head of CCEI’s Global Marketing. “We are pleased to have Martin join our team and share his expertise with our company as he helps align our marketing strategies and goals across all branches of CCEI around the world,” says Sébastien Chéreau, Marketing Director for CCEI.  

Since 1973, CCEI has been designing and manufacturing electrical equipment for private and public pools. Over the years, we have acquired in-depth experience with pools and their specific constraints. Starting as a manufacturer specialized in electrical boxes, CCEI has expanded to different areas, including automatic water treatment and lighting for pools.

CCEI’s technical team has also grown and now has a team with recognized skills in electronics, optics and electrochemistry. With this knowledge, CCEI is now able to provide global, adapted solutions to pool builders and industries and enhance the safety, ergonomics and reliability of pool facilities. 

Martin can be reached at the company’s offices in Montreal at:  [email protected].

More information about the company’s US operations can be found at:
www.ccei-pool.com/us/
CCEI USA Inc., Inglewood, CA 90301

 

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PHTA ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR 2025 DR. R. NEIL LOWRY GRANT

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Honoring public health officials and departments with $5,000

(Alexandria, Va.) — The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), the trade association representing the swimming pool, hot tub, and spa industry, is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Dr. R. Neil Lowry Grant. The winners will be honored at the PHTA Awards Ceremony at the International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo in Las Vegas, NV, on October 21, 2025.

Given in the memory of Dr. Robert Neil Lowry, a long-time member of PHTA and the PHTA Recreational Water & Air Quality Committee (RWAQC), this $5,000 grant honors a public health official or department who has made outstanding contributions to advance the public’s health and safe use of recreational water in pools, spas, and waterparks through educational, safety, operational, and technical programs.

“Knowing Neil at the beginning of my career in this industry impacted me in a profound way,” says Jody O’Grady, Chair of the RWAQC. “His knowledge of applying chemistry to keep everyone safe through education was invaluable. I am proud to be chairing the committee that reviews and selects this award so his legacy, through education, will continue.”

To be considered for the Lowry Grant, the public health official or department must describe their planned or proposed program, the service provided and how it benefits public health and safety, the impact of the expected results, and how the grant funds will be used. The nomination deadline is Friday, August 1, 2025.

Past winners of the Lowry Grant include: Central Valley Health District, 2024; Craven County Environmental Health, 2023; Fishers Health Department, 2022; City of North Richland Hills, 2021; Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment, 2019; Arizona Department of Health Services, 2018; Quechan Parks & Recreation, 2017; Riverside County California Department of Health, 2016; Columbus Public Health, 2015; Middlesex-London Health Unit of London, Ontario, 2014; Brevard County Environmental Health Services Department, 2013; Sacramento County Environmental Management Department, 2012; Alexandria Health Department, 2011; City of Houston, 2010; and City of Plano, 2009.

For more information about the grant and to submit a nomination form, visit www.phta.org/lowry-grant.

About the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), a non-profit organization with more than 3,700 members from around the world, was established in 1956 to support, promote, and protect the common interests of the $36.5B pool, hot tub, and spa industry. PHTA provides education, advocacy, standards development, research, and market growth initiatives to increase our members’ professionalism, knowledge, and profitability. Additionally, PHTA promotes the use of pools by expanding swimming, water safety, and related research and outreach activities aimed at introducing more people to swimming, making swimming environments safer, and keeping pools open to serve communities. For more information, visit www.phta.org.

About PHTA’s Recreational Water & Air Quality Committee (RWAQC)
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance’s RWAQC develops and maintains verifiable science-based information regarding sanitization technology and chemical products for use in pools, spas, and hot tubs. The committee also has an important role in the development of the chemical and sanitation sections for American National Standards Institute (ANSI) PHTA standards, including the ANSI/APSP/ICC-11 American National Standard for Water Quality in Public Pools and Spas. For a current listing of Committee members or more information, email [email protected].

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