Color and protection from wear and water intrusion are provided by a layer of gel coat on the surface. Gel coat bonds with the fiberglass resin and forms a tough shell that is resistant to the effects of wear and is superior to any type of household or marine paint. The gel-coat surface also makes the slide slippery, which promotes the function of the slide.
Things You Will Need
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Mask off all metal fittings or other parts of the slide that are not to be painted. Use low-tack painters tape or masking tape and ensure that the edges are secure to prevent wet gel coat from bleeding under the tape.
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Thin 1/2 gallon of pre-tinted gel coat with acetone in a clean plastic container to help it flow and leave a smooth finish. Add the methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) catalyst and mix well with a clean paint stir stick according to the manufacturer's instructions, or at 2 to 4 fluid ounces per gallon, as a rule of thumb.
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Roll or brush the catalyzed gel coat onto the areas of the slide that are to be painted. Apply the gel coat in a thin, even coat and avoid causing runs or sags that will add labor to the sanding process. Mix more gel coat as needed and coat the entire surface of the slide.
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Allow the gel coat to harden. Sand out any heavy brush marks or roller stipple with 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper and water.
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Allow the water to evaporate and repeat Steps 3 and 4 until the desired coverage and thickness are achieved. Add surfacing agent to the last coat, according to the manufacturer's instructions, to cause the gel coat to harden tack free.
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Allow the gel coat to harden. Carefully remove the masking tape. Clean all tools with acetone. Polish the slide with polishing compound and an electric buffer, if a high-gloss finish is desired.
The Drip Cap
- Fiberglass pool slides share similar construction methods with other fiberglass objects, such as boats.
- Mask off all metal fittings or other parts of the slide that are not to be painted.
- Apply the gel coat in a thin, even coat and avoid causing runs or sags that will add labor to the sanding process.
- Allow the gel coat to harden.
- Clean all tools with acetone.