Your pool slide is one of the most enjoyable parts of your backyard, but it’s also constantly under attack from the elements. Between salt water, chlorine, and strong sunlight, even the most durable fiberglass slides need a little extra care to stay looking new. Harsh conditions can wear down coatings, dull colors, and corrode hardware over time. With the right maintenance routine, you can keep your Dolphin Waterslide fast, safe, and beautiful for years.
The Hidden Challenges of Harsh Pool Conditions
Salt Water and Corrosion – Saltwater pools are easier on your skin and eyes, but they can be tough on your slide. Salt particles can settle on the slide’s surface and in small seams, slowly breaking down metal bolts and handrails. If left unwashed, salt can even cause small scratches in fiberglass once it dries.
Tip: After swimming, give your slide a quick rinse with clean water. This simple habit helps prevent corrosion and keeps the finish smooth.
Chlorine and Surface Damage – Chlorine is essential for a clean pool, but too much of it can strip away the protective gelcoat on your slide. Over time, high chlorine levels lead to fading, chalking, or a rough texture that dulls the shine.
Tip: Keep your chlorine level in balance, ideally between 1.0 and 3.0 ppm. When you need to shock the pool, cover the slide if you can, or rinse it right after the treatment to avoid damage.
Sunlight and UV Fading – UV rays are one of the biggest enemies of fiberglass. Prolonged sun exposure breaks down the glossy top layer, leaving the surface dry and faded. Slides in sunny or high-altitude areas are especially vulnerable to this kind of wear.
Tip: Apply a UV-protective wax or marine-grade coating at the start and midpoint of every swimming season. It forms a shield against the sun and helps the color stay vibrant longer.
Coatings That Protect and Preserve
Fiberglass slides are known for their strength, but in challenging climates, protective coatings add another layer of defense. Dolphin Waterslides uses high-quality gelcoat finishes that resist both chemicals and UV light. Still, time and weather take their toll. Reapplying a protective wax or UV coating every couple of years can make a noticeable difference in how your slide looks and feels.
If you live in a coastal area or a region with long, hot summers, consider scheduling professional refinishing occasionally. A technician can polish out minor oxidation, reseal the gelcoat, and bring back that glossy finish you fell in love with when your slide was first installed.
Inspections Keep Small Problems Small
Catching wear early is the best way to avoid big repairs later. A quick visual check every few weeks can reveal signs that your slide needs attention. Watch for:
- Faded or dull spots on the surface
- Small cracks or chips around joints
- Rust on handrails or mounting hardware
- A chalky or rough texture on the sliding path
When you spot these issues early, they’re usually easy to fix. Cleaning with a mild soap and soft sponge is enough for routine upkeep. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasives, which can strip the protective layer.
Lessons from the Toughest Conditions
Over the years, Dolphin Waterslides has installed slides in coastal towns, desert climates, and high-chlorine community pools. Each environment presents unique challenges, but one truth stays the same: prevention is always easier than repair.
Slides near the ocean benefit from frequent rinsing and a good wax coating every few months. In places with strong sun exposure, a UV protectant is essential to prevent fading. Even pools with heavy chlorine use can keep their slides in excellent condition when owners commit to regular cleaning and inspections.
Every climate brings its own test, but consistent care ensures your slide stays safe, shiny, and fun for everyone.
Keeping Your Slide in Peak Condition
A custom pool slide is a major part of what makes your backyard special. Taking a little time to maintain it keeps the fun going all summer long. Whether you’re dealing with salt air, bright sunlight, or busy pool days, the right upkeep will protect your investment and extend its life.
Dolphin Waterslides has been creating and maintaining high-quality fiberglass slides since 2006. If your slide is showing signs of wear or you’re interested in protective coatings designed for your environment, contact our team today. We’ll help you keep your slide looking and performing its best, so every ride feels like the first.
Contact Dolphin Waterslides at 731-632-1407 today or visit us online for more information!
