Mesh Lids - Aluminum Frame

RaymondL · May 4, 2023

It seems that many are making mesh lids for their tanks using aluminum window frame kits found in hardware stores, or even at the LFS.

Won't the salt react with the aluminum and 'poison' the tank in some capacity? That and the rubber spline that holds the mesh together might even break down over time. I'm wondering if there's a reef safe epoxy or paint spray that can coat the aluminum frame to prevent any issues by using this material.

Thoughts?

Thans

glb · May 5, 2023

I did this and used regular spray paint to coat the aluminum. It’s pitted a little but can easily be touched up. As far as the splining, I’ve had my cover over the tank for several years now and it’s holding up fine. Hope this helps!

RaymondL · May 5, 2023

glb said:
I did this and used regular spray paint to coat the aluminum. It’s pitted a little but can easily be touched up. As far as the splining, I’ve had my cover over the tank for several years now and it’s holding up fine. Hope this helps!

Thanks! Do you recall what brand/type of spray paint that you used? Concern is it being 'reef safe'

homer1475 · May 5, 2023

My aluminum framed lid is about 10 uears old now. Never been an issue. Sure it gets salt creep on it, and it get a little pitted from it, but everything in the tank is fine.

mtfish · May 5, 2023

Any paint once completely dried will be "reef safe". I am in the same boat as my screens (I have 4 total) are now 11 years old. I did paint mine also, but there is definitely oxidation going on that I am sure is not good for the tank. Lucky for me I have around 500 gallons total water. I wish somone would come up with a 3D printed "window screen frames". I would be the first to purchase it.

glb · May 7, 2023

glb said:
I did this and used regular spray paint to coat the aluminum. It’s pitted a little but can easily be touched up. As far as the splining, I’ve had my cover over the tank for several years now and it’s holding up fine. Hope this helps!