In the past, the only way to get a painted radiator was to take a paintbrush and paint to your existing radiator.
The paint and paintbrush solution wasn’t always the best because the result was often a less-than-professional end product. ‘Old school’ painted rads looked ok but didn’t have the ‘wow’ factor you were after.
Thankfully, now in more modern times, you can buy painted radiators directly from the retailer - retailers like us, Bathroom Takeaway.
Modern painted radiators are finished in stunning colours and definitely have the ‘wow’ factor when installed in your home.
But how to choose a modern painted radiator and how best to style them into your home decor? Continue reading and find out…
1. Choosing a colour
As I mentioned above, modern painted radiators are painted at the factory and delivered to you as the finished product.
The choice of colour available is vast, and the selection is growing all the time. So how best to choose a painted radiator colour?
To start with, think about the colours that are already in use in your home? Often, you can get inspiration from your existing decor. Think about which colours would either complement your existing decor or alternately dream of colours that would contrast your current room.
Failing that, pick a painted radiator in your favourite colours. We all have particular colourways that we gravitate towards so why not have a painted radiator in one of those colours.
Another thing to bear in mind, when planning a painted radiator, is that these beautiful radiators can be a feature in their own right. A coloured radiator doesn't have to just be ‘part’ of the room but can in fact be the ‘standout feature’ of any room.
2. Complementary valves, pipes and collars
Did you know that you can now buy radiator valves, pipes and collars in a whole host of different colours and finishes?
This is definitely something worth knowing when planning a coloured radiator.
Popular colours and finishes to choose from include: black, white, chrome, anthracite, brass, nickel, copper, and even gold.
We recommend choosing radiator accessories that work with your colour radiator of choice. Both complementary and contrasting colours can add that ‘extra special’ finishing touch to your new radiator.
Pipes and collars are important too. Forget the idea of having those nasty snap-on radiator pipe covers and instead go for solid pipes and collars that perfectly match the colour of your valves. Trust me when I say it is worth the small investment!
3. Special colours
As well as vibrant colours like sunshine yellow and Barbie pink, coloured radiators are now available to buy in ‘special’ colourways.
These special colours have a ‘hammered’ effect. The hammered effect radiators that we stock here at Bathroom Takeaway are silver, gold and copper.
Hammered effect painted rads look fantastic on traditional style column radiators. If you’re currently renovating an older property then a hammered effect radiator could really work.
Other than traditional properties, hammered effect radiators are a great addition to an exposed brick wall (if you have one in your home). Hammered rads have a distinctly industrial vibe about them and that style can complement the ruggedness of an exposed brick wall.
4. Creating the right setting
As I mentioned earlier, a painted radiator can very much be the standout feature in any room rather than just being part of it.
With that in mind, how can you create the perfect setting for your new painted radiator?
Painted radiators can work in any room in your home however to make the most of them consider the wall behind the radiator.
If you want your painted rad to really ‘pop’, you need to make sure the wall behind it is painted in a neutral colour; like white, cream or grey. If you go for a neutral wall colour, then adding home accessories that match the colour of your painted rad is the way to go.
The other chain of thought is to paint the wall behind your radiator in the same colour as your radiator. This style idea will give you that understated, coordinated look because your radiator will almost ‘blend in’ with your existing decor.
FAQ’s
Is Painting A Radiator A Good Idea?
Whether you’re painting an old radiator or buying a brand new coloured radiator, we think it’s a good idea.
Adding more colour and personality to your home is always a good idea because it makes your home more ‘you’. And that’s never a bad thing.
Painted radiators have the ability to take your home decor to the next level. Think about it, have you ever walked past a radiator painted in an interesting colour and not had a double-take.
What Is The Best Colour To Paint Radiators?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question.
For me, the best colour to paint a radiator is in a colourway that inspires you, and the home you are placing the radiator in.
When thinking about which colour to paint a radiator; choose colours that make you excited to see the end product.
Should You Paint Radiators The Same Colour As Walls?
If you want to create a sophisticated, coordinated look in your home then choose a coloured radiator in the same colour as your wall.
If you want your painted radiator to ‘pop’, then place your radiator on a neutral coloured wall like white, cream or grey.
What Is The Most Efficient Colour For A Radiator?
The colour you paint your radiator has a negligible effect on the heat output of a radiator.
When planning the colour of your painted radiator, don’t let heat efficiency or BTU output have any impact on your choice.
