How to paint a radiator
By Tom Drake | 8th October 2024 | 5 min read
If your radiator is looking a little tired, instead of replacing it, freshen it up with a lick of paint. Radiator paint is durable and protects against everyday knocks and bumps. It can be used on primed, factory-finished and previously painted radiators.
How to paint a radiator:
2. Clean the surface
Once your radiator has cooled down, use a damp cloth to clean dust and dirt from the surface. If your radiator is particularly dirty, use warm, soapy water and a cloth to remove more stubborn stains or grease. Pay close attention to any crevices where dirt and dust may have accumulated.
When you’ve finished cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residues, then allow the radiator to dry.
3. Sand the surface
Lightly sand the surface of the radiator with 120-grit sandpaper. Sanding will give the radiator a slightly rougher surface, which will be easier for the paint to adhere to. Remember to wear an appropriate dust mask and ventilate the area when sanding.
When you’ve finished sanding, use a cloth to wipe away any dust.
4. Tape valves or vents
Before painting, protect any areas that you don’t want to paint, such as valves or vents, with masking tape. You may also want to use dust sheets to protect your flooring and the wall behind the radiator.
5. Apply the first coat
Now your radiator is prepared, you can apply the first coat. Apply the paint evenly across the surface of the radiator using a synthetic paintbrush, finishing each brushstroke in a vertical direction. You may need to use a smaller brush for more intricate parts of the radiator.
Remember to stir the paint before and during application.
6. Apply further coats
The number of coats your radiator needs will depend on the paint you’ve purchased and the type of radiator you want to paint. Check the instructions on your paint to see how long you need to wait between each coat.
After painting, leave the paint to dry for 24 hours before turning the radiator back on.
Painting a radiator video guide:
Do I need to add primer to my radiator before painting?
Some paints require a primer to be applied to the radiator before painting. Check the instructions on your chosen paint to see if a coat of primer is needed.
Is painting radiators a good idea?
With proper preparation and attention to detail, painting your radiator can completely rejuvenate its appearance, transforming it from a worn, outdated fixture into a stylish focal point that enhances your home’s décor.
What paint can I use for my radiator?
Radiator paint is designed specifically for use on radiators. This means it’s resistant to cracking or fading, even when exposed to heat. It’s also durable and will protect the bare metal underneath.
Radiator paint ideas
Radiator paint is available in a fantastic selection of colours, giving you a great range of options for transforming your radiator.
Paint your radiator the same colour as the wall
Painting a radiator the same colour as the wall helps it seamlessly blend into your overall décor, creating a more cohesive and polished look. This approach minimises the visual impact of the radiator, making it less of a standout feature and more of an integrated part of the room’s design.
Paint your radiator a contrasting colour to the wall
Radiators are increasingly being used as bold design elements rather than something that fades into the background. By painting your radiator a contrasting colour to your wall, you can turn it into a striking focal point that adds character to the room.
Match accessories or skirting boards
Another way to create a more cohesive look in your home is painting your radiators the same colour as other features, such as skirting boards or accessories. This technique ties various elements of the room together, creating a harmonious flow throughout the space.
