How to Winterize an ecoFINISH® Swimming Pool

Closing your pool for the season is always important, but when your pool has been coated with ecoFINISH®, it’s especially critical to follow the right steps. Unlike traditional pool finishes, ecoFINISH® coatings are designed for long-term durability and beauty, but they still require care during the winter months. Proper winterization protects the surface, preserves water balance, and helps you open a clean, ready-to-swim pool in the spring.

Below, we’ll walk through the steps for winterizing an ecoFINISH® swimming pool safely and effectively.

Step 1: Clean and Prepare the Pool

Start by making sure your pool is spotless before you close it down:

• Skim leaves and debris from the surface.
• Vacuum the pool floor to remove dirt and organic matter.
• Brush the walls and steps to prevent algae buildup.

Leaving leaves, algae, or debris behind can stain your finish or make spring cleanup a nightmare. Think of this step as setting the stage for an easier pool opening later.

Step 2: Balance the Water Chemistry

ecoFINISH® coatings are durable, but balanced water is key to protecting the surface. Before adding winterizing chemicals, bring your pool’s water into these recommended ranges:

• pH: 7.2 – 7.8
• Free Chlorine: 1.0 – 3.0 mg/l
• Total Alkalinity: 80 – 120 mg/l
• Calcium Hardness: 180 – 220 mg/l
• Cyanuric Acid: 30 – 50 ppm
• Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): under 1200

Maintaining these levels helps keep the water stable during the months the pool sits unused.

Step 3: Add Winterizing Chemicals

Once the water is balanced, add the chemicals that will keep it clean all winter:

• Add a long-lasting algaecide to prevent algae blooms under the cover.
• Use a chlorine-free oxidizer to help oxidize contaminants.
• Avoid chlorine tablets in floaters. These release harsh chemicals over time and can bleach or discolor ecoFINISH® coatings.

Always follow the instructions on your specific winterizing kit and double-check with your pool manufacturer’s recommendations.

Step 4: Cover the Pool Properly

A secure cover is your best protection against debris, UV damage, and contaminants.

• Use a solid winter cover or safety cover that blocks sunlight.
• Tighten and secure the cover so it doesn’t sag or shift.
• Use water bags or cover weights to keep the cover in place. Never use sharp or heavy objects.

This step prevents organic matter and sunlight from fueling algae growth while also keeping your pool safe through winter storms.

Final Notes on ecoFINISH® Pool Winterization

Winterization is more than putting on a cover, it’s protecting your investment. A little effort now saves you from costly repairs or hours of cleanup in the spring.

Pool owners are responsible for maintaining proper water chemistry throughout the off-season and for following their equipment manufacturer’s instructions for draining and protecting pumps, filters, and plumbing.

You must always exercise reasonable caution, carefully read the label on all products, follow all product directions, follow any current codes and regulations that may apply, and consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures.