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Refurbishing old Radiators

November 1, 2008 Written by Robert Robillard 3 Comments

Many homes in Concord have beautifully decorative iron radiators that are often buried under layers of paint. Old, chipped paint is not only an eyesore but it also reduces the heating efficiency of the radiator.

Depending on the type of radiator you have, it might be a do-it-yourself project.
WARNING – Many of these beauties were painted years ago with lead paint. Consider getting a test kit before taking on any stripping, sanding or wire wheeling.
This should be an outdoor project to avoid air borne dust. Use high temperature paint.

Locally there are companies that specialize in refurbishing radiators. LT Design and Innovations in Somerville, Mass http://www.allaboutradiators.com/
They charge an average of $20 per fin, or section. The company can remove the radiator and take it back to the shop. At the shop they will disassemble, sand-blast and powder-coated your radiator.
POSTED BY CONCORD CARPENTER
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Concord Carpenter

Who is Concord Carpenter?    ~ Robert Robillard is editor of A Concord Carpenter and principal of a carpentry and renovation business located in Concord, Massachusetts. Rob is a recognized leader in tool and how-to information for building professionals, he also hosts the Concord Carpenter Cable TV Show, offering the do-it-yourself audience in Boston's Meto West region expert advice on home repairs and maintenance. On his website, Rob covers all aspects of home improvement and remodeling, specializing in problem solving for home maintenance. Rob enjoys evaluating and reviewing tools and products and restoring vintage tools. The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!":

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Comments

  1. Robert Robillard says:
    December 9, 2008 at 5:18 am

    Hi Chris,

    Radiator Covers can actually increase heat efficiency, they force the heated air forward instead of straight up to the ceiling, which also lowers the amount of heat the wall absorbs.

    Several years back a carpenter friend and I constructed approx 8radiator covers for the house at 300 Main Street.

    We used MDF cases and moldings for its stability with the heat [wood movement] and stretched wicker for the decorative fonts.

    They were beautiful and worked well.

    This was before I hade a digital camera – so I can’t share them.

    Reply
  2. cjryan2000 says:
    December 8, 2008 at 7:35 pm

    Hi Rob

    Any thought about radiator covers? We need to maximize shelf space but do they reduce heating efficiency much?

    Chris Ryan
    Concord, MA

    Reply

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