A fresh coat of paint on your radiator not only gives it a much-needed refresh, but can even breathe new life into your room. In this guide, we walk you through this simple yet transformative DIY project that promises a stunning outcome. 

Essential Tools & Equipment

You will also need a bowl of warm soapy water to help clean your radiators.

Step 1: Prepare the Area

  • Before you begin, protect the surrounding area with a dust sheet to prevent any paint spills or splatters damaging the floor. 

Step 2: Turn Off the Radiator

  • Ensure the radiator is turned off to avoid any cracks or blisters in the paint.

  • If your heating was on and the radiators are warm, make sure they’re completely cool before you start.

Step 3: Clean the Radiator

  • Use a degreaser to loosen grease and grime from the surface

  • Follow up by wiping the radiator down with warm soapy water. 

Step 4: Sand the Radiator

  • Sand any lumps and bumps on the radiator, such as from previous coats of paint, using a coarse or medium grit sandpaper for bigger imperfections.
  • Use a fine grit towards the end to make a completely smooth surface ready for painting.
  • If the radiator is mostly smooth already, just use a fine grit sandpaper all over.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Radiator

  • Use a dry or lightly damp cloth to wipe down the radiator and remove any sandpaper particles before painting.

Step 6: Start Painting

  • Dip your paint brush into a radiator paint or multi-purpose paint in the colour of your choice, and lightly brush up and down the surface.

  • Make sure to paint in one direction to avoid streaky lines.

  • We recommend you paint the pipes too so you end up with a cohesive, nicely finished look.

Step 7: Apply Second Coat

  • After the first coat has fully dried (check manufacturers recommendations for the drying time), lightly sand the radiator to remove any brush strokes and apply a second coat for complete coverage.
  • A third coat might be necessary depending on the colour you started with and the colour you’re painting the radiator.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of paint should I use for painting radiators?

How do I prepare my radiator for painting?

Can I paint the pipes of the radiator?

How many coats of paint are needed for a radiator?

Have You Seen?