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Before you start painting a radiator, it’s important that it is cooled down. Now painting
a hot radiator can affect the quality of the paint finish, so make sure that the radiator
is turned off and completely cooled down before you start painting. Place drop cloths underneath
and next to the radiator to protect the floor. Now because of the expansion and contraction
of the radiator, this whole cork is cracked, and you want to fill this with a premium quality
cork before you start priming.
Use a soft cloth and mild detergent to remove any dust and dirt from the radiator. You’ll
want to use a small, wide brush to remove any loose rust on the radiator. Now these
areas should be primed with a latex rust inhibitor like Benjamin Moore’s acrylic metal primer.
Although you can use a high heat coating to paint radiators, it will limit your color
choice. Now most premium quality interior latex paint will withstand temperature up
to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. This will allow you to use the same paint you used on the
walls or trim.
Now painting a radiator the same color as the wall will help it blend in rather than
stand out. 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 and then work your way to the bottom. Now don’t paint
the valves, since that could make them difficult to open. Allow the paint to dry for at least
24 hours before turning the heat back on.