Quick Question …. Can You Paint Radiators?
Whether you’re doing a full house renovation or simply sprucing up a room, you may have asked yourself this question, ‘Can you paint radiators?’ The quick answer is ‘Yes.’
However, before you embark on such a project, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. These days our radiators can form part of our home decor. With so many different styles on the market they can be a great way to add interest and individuality to your design scheme.
You can choose the texture, shape and size of radiator to co-ordinate with your house style. Tall, contemporary column radiators, vintage style models and everything in between, are available from good radiator suppliers. Modern Living has a wealth of options to choose from, with prices to suit all budgets.
Whether you prefer to blend your radiators with the colour of your walls, or you’re feeling daring and want to use them as a stand out feature, you certainly won’t want to get it wrong. That’s why choosing the best paint for radiators is so important.
Read on to discover just how to paint radiators; the best paint for radiators and some valuable tips and advice to make the process a whole lot easier.
Why Should You Paint Radiators?
Why not? There’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to the upkeep of your radiators. Some people replace them, others renew them. If you prefer to keep to a lower budget, painting your radiators is definitely the way to go. Replacing them can be costly, particularly if you favour the more high end models.
Maintaining the health of your heating system involves some regular servicing, to ensure it continues to run smoothly. Similarly, you want them to look as good as new for as long as possible. One way to do this is to learn how to paint radiators yourself.
It’s a fairly simple process. Keep reading to find out how to get the best results and extend the life of your current radiators.
A Few Quick Questions Before You Begin
- What’s so special about radiator paint?
Most importantly, radiator paint has been specially formulated to withstand the heat of a radiator. It is designed to prevent peeling, whilst protecting the metal underneath.
- Can you paint radiators if they have been painted before?
Yes you can. Radiators that have been primed, factory finished or painted before can all be painted with specialist radiator paint.
- Do you paint radiators with a roller or brush?
Due to the design of many radiators, a brush or spray paint are the best ways to get an even result. Rollers tend to struggle with the gaps and grooves in radiators.
So, now you know you can, let’s talk about how …
First thing’s first – make sure you have the right tools for the job. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need before you make a start:
- Sandpaper – for smoothing the surface
- Sugar soap – to clean
- Cloth – the clean and dry
- Paintbrush – for obvious reasons!
- Primer and paint – we like Johnstone’s interior wood and metal quick dry satin; Rust-oleum radiator paint; Hammerite radiator enamel aerosol.
Follow this 8 step guide for a perfect finish
- Choose your paint
It’s imperative that you choose the best paint for radiators. There are several options on the market, from tins, requiring a brush, to aerosols that can be sprayed directly onto the radiator. Choose your colour and finish to blend in or standout, as you wish. Then follow the manufacturers guidelines to get the best results.
- Turn off your radiators
It might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people make this rookie mistake. Throughout the cleaning, painting and drying process, your radiators need to be turned off, and remain off, until they are completely dry.
- Prep the radiator
To ensure you are working with a smooth surface, you should sand the radiator prior to priming and painting. Getting rid of any rough areas or bumps from previous paint jobs will give you a better overall finish.
- Clean the radiator
Using a cloth and some sugar soap, gently wipe the radiator to remove any dirt, dust or particles that have arisen from the sanding process. Dry the radiator thoroughly before moving onto the next step.
- Apply primer
Primer is available in tins or aerosol cans, just like the paint. Choose the method and brand you prefer, follow the instructions, and wait for the primer to dry completely before applying paint.
- Paint the radiator
Your radiator should be fully prepped for painting now. Take your time and apply your chosen paint with a brush or aerosol. You must wait until the first coat is completely dry before applying a second or third coat. This will produce the best results.
- Let the paint dry
Now wait! This will take 24 hours or more. Don’t be tempted to try to quicken the process. You’ll be glad you were patient when you see the final results.
- Turn the radiator back on
You’re all set. Get that heating back on, sit back and admire your work!
Remember…
You really can extend the life of your radiators if you take care of them, potentially saving yourself a lot of money in the process.
Any leftover paint can be used around the house to up-cycle other metal appliances, so nothing needs to go to waste.
Following these instructions, and those of the paint manufacturer should result in a job well done. Shop around for the right paint; ask for help in DIY stores and get advice from your radiator supplier if necessary. Happy painting!