Pool Slide Wax For More Slippery Surface

Over time, slides can become rough, faded, or slow due to oxidation, dirt buildup, or wear and tear. Applying the right swimming pool wax not only restores shine but also enhances speed, reduces friction, and extends the slide’s lifespan.

In a nutshell, here are 4 steps to wax the pool slide to make it more slippery:

1. Clean the slide surface thoroughly
2. Dry the surface completely and apply the wax
3. Let the wax dry then buff for glossy finish
4. Test the slide for slipperiness

In this content, we will dive deeper into the details of how to wax pool slide.

Benefits

Swimming pool slide wax is a protective coating that enhances the surface of a slide, preventing oxidation and reducing water resistance. Similar to car wax, it adds a slick finish, making the slide smoother and faster while also protecting it from UV damage, dirt buildup, and surface wear.

Here are some of the benefits:

• Restores Shine – Brings back the glossy look of faded slides
• Increases Speed – Reduces friction for a smoother, faster ride
• Protects Against UV Rays – Prevents sun damage and fading
• Prevents Oxidation – Slows down chalky buildup on fiberglass
• Reduces Maintenance – Repels dirt, making cleaning easier

How To Apply

Before applying the wax, here are the set of tools needed:

• Pool slide wax or marine-grade fiberglass wax
• Soft microfiber cloth or sponge
• Mild soap and water
• Non-abrasive cleaner (for stubborn stains)
• Buffing pad (optional)

Here are the steps to wax the pool surface:

1. Clean the Slide Surface Thoroughly

Before applying wax, it is essential to remove all dirt, grime, algae, and oxidation buildup to ensure proper adhesion.

Steps to clean the slide:

• Rinse the surface thoroughly with a garden hose or pressure washer to remove loose debris.
• Use a mild cleaner such as dish soap mixed with warm water or a non-abrasive fiberglass cleaner. Apply it with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
• For stubborn stains or oxidation, gently scrub with a magic eraser or a non-abrasive cleaning pad.
• Rinse the slide again to remove all soap and cleaning residue.
• Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Note: Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or abrasive scrubbers, as these can damage the fiberglass surface.

2. Dry the Surface Completely and Apply the Wax

The pool slide must be completely dry before applying wax to ensure proper bonding.

How to apply the wax:

• Select a high-quality marine, boat, or swimming pool slide wax designed for fiberglass surfaces.
• Using a soft microfiber cloth or applicator pad, apply a thin, even layer of wax to the entire sliding area.
• Spread the wax using circular motions for even coverage.
• Focus on high-contact areas where riders frequently slide down.

Tip: Avoid overapplying wax, as a thick layer can leave streaks and make buffing difficult.

3. Let the Wax Dry, Then Buff for a Glossy Finish

Once the wax is applied, it needs time to dry before buffing.

Drying & buffing steps:

• Allow the wax to sit for 5 to 10 minutes or until it forms a hazy appearance (refer to the product instructions).
• Use a clean microfiber towel or buffing pad to buff the surface in circular motions.
• Continue buffing until the slide has a smooth, glossy finish.
• Check for any uneven areas and rebuff if necessary.

For optimal results, applying two thin coats of wax and buffing each coat separately can enhance the slide’s slickness and protection.

4. Test the Slide for Slipperiness

Before using the slide, it is essential to test its smoothness and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

How to test:

• Lightly sprinkle water over the slide to simulate real conditions.
• Run a hand or a towel down the surface to check for smoothness.
• If the slide feels sticky or slow, buff the surface again to remove excess wax.
• If needed, apply a second coat of wax and repeat the process.

Caution: Avoid using household furniture polish sprays, as they can make the slide excessively slippery and may not provide long-term protection against water and UV damage.

How Often To Apply

• For residential pool slides: Every 1 to 3 months
• For commercial water slides: Every few weeks, depending on usage and sun exposure

Regular waxing is an essential part of pool slide maintenance. It helps to extend the lifespan of the slide, maintain its appearance, and ensure a smooth, fast, and safe ride.

Waxing vs Gel Coating

Waxing and gel coating are the two common restoration methods to maintain fiberglass water slides. However, they both also have their differences. Below is the comparison table between swimming pool waxing and gel coating: