Home Removal Services Blog

Cast iron radiators are great and useful devices that have been used for over a century to keep rooms warm while looking great. But sometimes, as time goes by, the radiator can start looking more like an eyesore than anything else.

One of the easiest ways to improve the look and performance of your radiator is as simple as applying a coat of paint. This has additional advantages to the aesthetic. Indeed, the advantages to painting a cast iron radiator are not just for the eyes.

The best part about paint is that it helps to lower the warmth which is put out by the radiator. This helps reduce your energy bill by cutting down on wasteful heating. And not in an insignificant way – a solid coat of paint can reduce your output by twenty percent.

A couple of crucial decisions should be made before getting to the actual painting. The first is the paint that you want. Go for a long living and good looking paint. You’ll need to decide on an approach, as well.

Of the two approaches to take, one is simply the lazy man’s way out. That’s to simply cover up the old coat of paint. This isn’t recommended, but it will still work for the time being. Choosing to strip and sand the cast iron radiator before applying the new paint will yield much better results.

First make sure to clean the surface. Then apply a primer that was made using zinc or zinc chloride. This will prepare the surface for the paint. Using an oil based paint is best, and is definitely recommended.

Brushing the paint on gently will ensure that you don’t damage the cast iron. Be patient, and make sure that you hit every angle before you’re done. This is crucial – so don’t be lazy.

Once you’re done, open the windows and turn on the radiator. The smell of paint will last for a little bit of time, so it might be best to leave the house for a while. Painting your cast iron radiator is easy and really helps this useful heating utility shine as the centerpiece of the room.