Pole Problems
Loose foil on a pole
Loose foil encompasses a wide spectrum. If the foil is peeling away from the pole, your best bet is a pack of clear little rubber bands. Found in most drugstores, these tiny bands can be positioned in any increment on the pole, thereby securing the foil with practically no impact on the original condition. Take care not to block any holes with the bands. Virtually unnoticeable after tree assembly:
In the before times, adhesive tape was often used for foil repairs. Today, the aluminum tree curator knows the folly of adhesive tape on foil. The matte finish starts cloudy and gets cloudier. Clear cellophane tape becomes yellow and leaves a residue.
Cloudy matte tape and yellow cellophane tape residue
Foil present but fully separated
If the paper or foil is present and intact, but not adhered to the pole, spray adhesive or glue stick may be used to re-attach. Be sure to very meticulously align the holes in the foil or paper with the pole, or you will be sad.
Foil destroyed or missing
As a last resort, a common solution is to paint the pole. Accuracy in color and finish choice is key. For instance, ‘Brite Blue’ from Ace Hardware is a pretty good match for the Evergleam Blue-Green and Blue-Burgundy trees. These 2 models originally came with a matte, blue paper-covered pole. Otherwise, the poles are the same as any 4-foot, 55 branch Evergleam.
Foil Beyond Repair
Brite Blue from Ace Hardware
Side-by-side, painted replacement pole and original papered pole for Evergleam 2-tone trees.
Branch sags when inserted into the pole hole
Routed out hole
This problem is less common, and the hack is straightforward. If you encounter a routed-out hole, simply employ a drill to deepen the hole just a tad. Be as precise as possible in matching the drill bit to the hole size. Easy fix.
Preventing damage to poles
After 60+ years, some wooden poles become dry and are vulnerable to damage. Even the best stored poles can be marred by assembly. The very best solution is an aftermarket (but still vintage) stand that features an elongated collar, or sleeve, to stabilize the pole. A further protective step is to wrap the pole in felt when inserting into the stand.
Scarred Revlis Pole
Cameo Turner with collar