I'd need to check with the vendor to see what he is using as his default (the Aluminum skimmer lid is a stock part while the stainless would be a custom run just for us).
Ideally I'd go with brushed aluminum, no plating at all if there was an alloy that wouldn't corrode when used in a pool...
Since my application is a skimmer lid there is no question but that they will be subject to significant amounts of standing water both chlorinated from the pool (primarily in the summer) and rainwater.
If EN plated Aluminum isn't able to stand up to that then perhaps a better choice is to go...
DFLewis,
I've had an idea that might help you. Swimming pool covers generally use aluminum tracks and frames. One would think therefore if anyone knew about how to protect aluminum it would be these guys. You might take a look at one of their sites and see what they do. If you can't find...
I almost started a new thread but since the problems were so closely related if not essentially identical (how to protect aluminum in a swimming pool environment) in the end I thought it would work better if they stayed together.
It was a judgement call and I'll try and do better next time.
TVP,
I hate to post as a brand new user, but I am struggling with an almost identical situation.
An architect has specified metal skimmer lids for the deck next to a pool. They come in Aluminum and Bronze but he wants them to match the other pool fittings, primarily the stainless steel...
