<P> The bridge was originally painted with red lead primer and a lead - based topcoat , which was touched up as required . In the mid-1960s , a program was started to improve corrosion protection by stripping the original paint and repainting the bridge with zinc silicate primer and vinyl topcoats . Since 1990 , acrylic topcoats have been used instead for air - quality reasons . The program was completed in 1995 and it is now maintained by 38 painters who touch up the paintwork where it becomes seriously corroded . </P>
what color is the golden gate bridge in san francisco
red