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Q&As since 1989


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Refinishing aluminum pool trim

I need to refinish the aluminum coping or lip around the top of my swimming pool. I was once white but most of the coating has worn off over the years. Some of the original color remains on the underside nearest the water.

What type prep, primer and paint will survive best in this type of environment which includes direct sun, rain and pool water containing typical pool chemicals? I plan to paint it in place but I could remove it if absolutely necessary.

Albert Tieche
- Nashville, Tennessee, USA
2000

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Hi Pool Installers:

I need to know does anyone know a company called Green Hammer Metal Products located Dover, New Jersey. Twenty something years ago I purchased a in-ground pool. "Anthony Pool" Aluminum Sides and coping on top. The braces on the outside of the pool were aluminum also. I still own the pool. I'm looking for service in Connecticut.

Shirlee Faith
- West Haven, Connecticut, U.S.A.
2001

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1- Clean & rinse good.

2- Use a white primer. Some people use water base primer. I would use oil base.

3- I would use a paint that you can use for aluminum siding. (Its the same thing.) BUT keep in mind Oil base primer means you have to use oil base paint or Enamel paint. the reason Oil Base is the best is because its not good for you (chemicals) if you have children keep there mouths off of it. You know how kids could be?

4- At a paint store or a Home Depot store ask the person working there what your planning to do. Do not take his advise only. Inquire a bit more about your project. I found in the past even persons that are supposed to know what they're selling DON'T.

Good Luck,

Shirlee Faith
- West Haven, Connecticut, U.S.A
2001

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I have an inground pool that is about 20 years old and we are having the liner replace. I want to re paint the coping because it looks pretty warn, but I would like to know what product would work best. The pool has full sun.
Thanks for your help,

Jerry Malloy
- Orchard Park, New York
2007

We are having our liner replaced, and the pool man suggested Rustoleum. But, having used both Rustoleum and Krylon in the past, I prefer the finish and quick drying time on the Krylon. He said three light coats or more, will keep from chipping and last the longest. I am currently on the first coat, but it looks better already. Our coping is aluminum and is taking the spray paint beautifully. I tested one section first with three light coats, allowing for drying time in between, and it looks like new. Good luck!

DONNA HAUSER
- CARMEL, New York
May 20, 2008