How to Paint Radiators

Is the paint on your radiator chipped or doesn’t match the space it’s in? It may be time to liven it up with a fresh coat of paint. All it will take is a few hours and a little bit of elbow grease to have it looking clean, fresh, and polished!

When thinking about painting your radiator, it’s important to make sure that it is turned off and completely cooled down before you can begin. Painting a hot radiator can affect the quality of the paint finish. Read our other tips below to ensure your radiator looks brand new!

Tips Before You Paint

• In order to have success with painting your radiator, it’s crucial to not skip any steps of preparation.
• Use a soft cloth and mild detergent to remove any dust and dirt from the radiator. You will want to use a wire brush to remove any loose rust on the radiator. In order for a new finish to stick, all of the dust and dirt needs to be gone. These areas should be primed with a latex rust inhibitor primer, such as Benjamin Moore’s Acrylic Metal Primer.
• Although you can use Hi-Heat coating to paint the radiators, it will limit your color choice. Most premium quality interior latex paint will withstand a temperature up to 180° F, so you can use the same paint that you used on the walls or trim. Painting a radiator the same color as your walls will help it blend in better with your space.
• Make sure you choose the right paintbrush for painting your radiator.

Preparation

• Begin by placing drop cloths under and next to the radiator to protect the floor.
• Replace old, cracked caulk by filling the cracks with new, premium-quality caulk before you start priming.
• Next, use a soft cloth and mild detergent to remove any dust and dirt from the radiator. Use a wire brush to remove any loose rust.
• Rusted areas should be primed with a latex rust inhibitor primer, such as Benjamin Moore’s Acrylic Metal Primer.

Painting the Radiator

• Generally, a brush is the best application tool but depending on the size and style of the radiator you may also be able to use a small Slim Jim roller along with a brush.
• Start by painting at the top, working your way to the bottom.
• Don’t paint the valves, as that could make them difficult to open.
• Allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours before turning the heat back on.
• Don’t forget to clean up after you paint!

For best results, ALWAYS READ THE PAINT CAN LABEL. The labels give specific safety information that should be carefully adhered to. If you have any questions about what paint to choose or how to go about painting your radiator, visit the closest Ricciardi Brothers location to you. Our paint experts will be happy to assist you with everything you need for your home renovation project!