Painting a radiator is an easy and affordable way to refresh your space without replacing the unit. Whether your radiator’s paint is chipped, worn, or simply outdated, the right paint and preparation can transform it into a stylish part of your room. With a variety of paint types to choose from—each offering its own benefits—you can match your radiator to your walls, furniture, or decor while also protecting it from rust and wear. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from preparation and choosing the right paint to applying it for a smooth, long-lasting finish.
How to Paint a Radiator
The first challenge you’ll face when painting a radiator is its smooth, slippery surface. This can make painting a radiator seem impractical. However, with the right paint and technique, you can easily give it a fresh new look. Start by following these steps and then continue by choosing the proper paint.
Before you begin, turn off the radiator and make sure it has completely cooled down to prevent the paint from bubbling during the process. Clean the radiator thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before painting.
Is Painting a Radiator a Good Idea?
Although the radiator’s glossy surface makes painting more difficult, you can still repaint one with chipped or worn paint. To ensure the paint adheres properly, you should either sand the surface or apply a primer first.
What is the Best Paint for Radiators?
- Radiator paint is the best option for painting radiators. It adheres well to metal and existing paint, is resistant to rust, and offers long-lasting durability. It also doesn’t require a primer.
- Acrylic Paint: Acrylic paint can be used on radiators, but it’s best to choose an all-purpose acrylic paint. Lightly sanding the radiator or applying an acrylic primer before painting will improve adhesion.
- Spray Paints: All-purpose spray paints are suitable for radiators. However, keep in mind that spray paint can produce strong odors that may linger indoors. There’s also a risk of drips and uneven coverage when using spray paint.
- Oil-Based Paint: Oil-based paints adhere well to many surfaces, making them a good choice for radiators. However, they take longer to dry and may produce a strong odor for several weeks. If using oil-based paint, allow a full day between coats. Due to its strong adhesion, oil-based paint typically does not require a primer. “Related post: Oil vs water-based stain interior“
- Latex Wall Paint: If you want your radiator to match your walls, you can use wall paint. However, since wall paint is designed for absorbent surfaces, it may not adhere well to metal. Before applying wall paint, lightly sand the existing radiator paint or use a bonding primer for better adhesion.
Do You Need to Sand a Radiator Before Painting?
Most radiators have a glossy, smooth surface that can make it difficult for new paint to adhere. To avoid this issue, lightly sand the surface with 220-240 grit sandpaper or apply a primer before painting. These steps will help the paint bond better to the radiator and improve durability. Otherwise, the paint may not hold up well against friction. However, you can skip sanding by applying a primer instead.
Should You Paint Radiators with a Brush or Roller?
If your radiator has grooves and ridges, use a soft-bristled brush. If it has a flat surface, using a roller will speed up the painting process.
How do You Paint a Radiator?
Placing a drop cloth under the radiator before you start painting will help prevent paint drips on the floor. If the radiator has grooves, use a brush; if it has a flat surface, a small roller will be more suitable.
Before you begin, make sure the radiator is turned off and completely cool. Use painter’s tape to cover any areas you don’t want to paint, such as the pipe connections.
If the old paint is peeling, sand the surface to create a smooth base. If you plan to use acrylic or wall paint, lightly sanding the radiator will also help with adhesion.
Applying a primer is essential regardless of the paint type, as it improves adhesion and can eliminate the need for sanding, especially on glossy surfaces. Allow the primer to dry for at least four hours before painting.
When applying paint, follow the appropriate drying times between coats: at least four hours for latex or acrylic paint, 30 minutes for spray paint, and 24 hours for oil-based paint. Do not turn the radiator on before the paint is completely dry. Otherwise, the paint may peel off or form bubbles.
How many Coats of Paint on a Radiator?
Paint the radiator with at least two coats. However, if you are changing the color and the old color isn’t fully covered, you can apply additional coats while adhering to the drying time between layers. “Related post: Can you paint over dark colors without primer“
Supplies Checklist
- 2-4 inch brush and a small roller with short nap.
- 220-240 grit sandpaper.
- Radiator paint.
- Painter’s tape.
- Primer paint.
- Drop cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve answered some frequently asked questions about radiator painting below. Feel free to use the comment section for any other questions.
Can You Paint Straight onto a Radiator?
Do not apply paint directly to the radiator’s surface, as its glossy and smooth finish may weaken the new paint’s adhesion.
Should Radiator Paint be Gloss or Matt?
You can choose the paint sheen for your radiator based on your furniture. If your furniture and decor are glossy, you can opt for a glossy paint on the radiator. If they are matte, a matte paint would be a better choice.
Can Old Radiators be Painted?
Old radiators can be painted. However, sanding off the peeling paint and applying a primer is a good precaution.
What is an Alternative to Radiator Paint?
As an alternative to radiator paint, you can use all-purpose acrylic paints and oil-based paints.
Can I Put Heating on After Painting Radiator?
If you painted the radiator with a water-based paint, wait one day before turning it on. If you used an oil-based paint, wait a day before turning it on.
Is it Better to Spray or Paint a Radiator?
Spray paint adheres to the radiator, but since it is applied vertically, it may drip or form uneven layers. For this reason, we do not recommend painting the radiator with spray paint.
Can I Paint a Radiator Without Sanding?
You can paint the radiator without sanding it by using a primer. However, make sure not to use the same type of primer as your paint.
What is the Best Radiator Paint?
The best paint to use for painting a radiator is special radiator paint. It adheres well to the radiator and generally does not require primer or sanding.
