How to Paint a Radiator Safely and Neatly
Refresh a tired radiator with a heat-resistant finish that will not peel or yellow.
A radiator that has yellowed or chipped can let down an otherwise smart room, but giving it a new lease of life is a straightforward afternoon's work. The key is choosing a paint formulated to withstand repeated heating and cooling cycles.
Always let the radiator cool completely and, ideally, turn the heating off at the valve before you begin, as painting warm metal causes the finish to dry too fast and flake.
What you will need
- Wire wool or abrasive pad
- Sugar soap
- Metal primer
- Radiator enamel paint
- Narrow angled brush or small foam roller
- Dust sheet
- Decorator's tape
Turn off and cool the radiator
Switch off the heating and allow the radiator to cool to room temperature. Painting a warm surface leads to a patchy, brittle finish. Lay a dust sheet beneath the radiator and tape off the wall and valves around it.
Clean and lightly abrade
Wash the surface with sugar soap to remove dust and grease, then rinse and dry. Gently rub any flaking or glossy areas with wire wool or an abrasive pad to create a key. Wipe away all residue before priming.
Treat any bare metal
Spot-prime any areas of exposed or rusted metal with a suitable metal primer to prevent further corrosion and to help the topcoat adhere. Feather the edges so the repair blends in. Let the primer dry fully as directed on the tin.
Apply the enamel
Using a narrow angled brush or small foam roller, apply the radiator enamel in thin, even strokes, working from the top down. Reach into the gaps between the columns with the brush tip. Keep coats thin to avoid runs collecting at the lower edges.
Recoat and cure
Allow the first coat to dry, then apply a second for a solid, even colour. Let the finish cure for the full time stated before turning the heating back on. Introducing heat too early can trap solvents and spoil the surface.