The waterproofer should be white in color and made to seal a concrete surface. UGL, Billdry and Thoroseal are common brands that are available. Be sure you choose a water sealer and not a waterproofer. Most brands will indicate that it is suitable for swimming pools. You will need whitewash brushes to apply the material.
- First, you will want to drain the pool and acid wash it thoroughly.
- Next, mix the material being sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Try to time this for the afternoon so as not to apply in direct sunlight because the material can dry too rapidly. Drying too fast can make it craze (making spider-web-like cracks in it).
- Before applying you will need to wet the surface of the pool. Start at the shallow end and work towards the main drain. Try not to let an edge dry as you go, so that you are always applying up to a wet area. You may need to wet the pool surface as you go to keep it damp.
- Keep the brush strokes going in the same direction on the floor and horizontally on the walls.
- When you get to the main drain, you may need to bail out the water that has accumulated.
- You should put your extension ladder into the pool to give you an exit and "paint" your way to the ladder and out of the pool.
- Start filling the pool as soon as possible by putting the water hose into the main drain. You do not want the water running down the pool and wearing away the new finish.