How to Repaint a Radiator
Radiators are a common fixture in older homes. In addition to their function many homeowners also want the radiator to blend with the rest of their home. If you have a radiator with chipping paint, this guide will how you how to repaint your radiator for an easy update to your space.
STEP 1
Turn Off Radiator and Let it Cool
Prevent potential burns and turn off your radiator and let it cool completely. This step will also ensure your paint goes on smooth and won’t flake prematurely.
STEP 2
Test Paint for Lead
This is the most important step in your project. If you have a home that was built before 1978, there’s a high probability lead paint might be present on your radiator. However, if the paint isn’t chipping, peeling or cracking, the paint poses little threat. That’s why you should test the paint on your radiator before you begin your project. Test multiple areas on your radiator in case the previous homeowner also repainted the radiator.
Tip: If the paint on your radiator tests positive for lead, you have two options to continue your project. You can opt to call a professional to safely remove the lead-based paint, but this solution will be very costly due to the safety precautions and expertise needed. Your other option is to use an encapsulant primer to seal in the lead before going over the radiator in your desired color.
STEP 3
Prep Your Space
Radiators are commonly found close to the wall so prepping your space will require putting down a drop cloth to protect your floors. To paint behind the radiator, you’ll also need to tape a drop cloth against the wall or use a large piece of cardboard. If you plan to sand flaking paint on the radiator, have a mask handy. Lastly, tape off any valves, caps or knobs around the radiator to prevent paint from blocking them.
STEP 4
Clean And Sand Radiator
Use warm soapy water and cleaning rags to wipe down the radiator. Allow to dry completely. So long as there’s no lead paint present on the radiator, you can use steel wool to sand the radiator. You can completely strip the paint from the radiator using this method, but if there is a lot of paint building up, 180- to 220-grit sandpaper will speed up this process. Ultimately, you want the surface to be even and dulled but not heavily textured.
Tip: If you are able to complete this step, you can move straight to painting without applying any sort of primer. However, a smoothing primer can help create a seamless finish.
STEP 5
Paint Radiator
Depending on if you were able to sand down the paint on your radiator, it’s time to paint. Since radiators have so many curves and grooves, the best way to paint is to use a spray paint. If you can’t find a spray paint in your desired color, you can either use an angled, natural bristled brush or use a spray paint gun. Keep in mind that the paint you choose should be rust resistant. For an extra smooth final product, go over the first coat with a little bit of steel wool before applying a second coat of paint.
Tip: Once your project is complete, it’s not uncommon to smell fresh paint while the radiator is running. This smell is common regardless of how long you wait to use your radiator after repainting. It should fade after a few uses.
Choosing The Best Radiator Paint:
- Since radiator surfaces get hot, it’s best to use a heat tolerant spray paint which can sustain up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit of continuous heat. However, there are limited colors to choose from.
- If you’re not using a spray paint, choose a direct-to-metal enamel which is heat resistant and rust inhibitive.
