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Paint your radiators.
Heat-resistant primer and finish — radiators on the wall, sanded, primed and 2-coat finished.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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Yellowing white radiators
Oil-based paints yellow with heat over years. Use water-based heat-resistant paint for non-yellowing white.
Rust under paint
Untreated rust bleeds through new coats. Always treat with rust-converter primer first.
Heat causing peel
Cheap paint flakes near the inlet pipe (hottest area). Use proper radiator paint, not standard emulsion.
Brush marks visible
Standard brush leaves marks on smooth panel radiators. Use foam roller for panels, brush for detailing.
Costs & timeline
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Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Standard radiator brushed500–1500mm single panel
£40–£100
Large radiator brushed1500–2000mm or double panel
£60–£150
Spray finish radiatorSingle radiator
£80–£200
Cast iron Victorian radiator brushedMulti-section, detailed
£100–£300
Cast iron sprayedOff-site for best result
£180–£500
Whole house (8–10 radiators)Bundled discount
£350–£1.2k
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
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Decorator explained
Refreshing radiators with new paint transforms a room without the cost of replacement. Expect to pay £40–£150 per radiator in the UK for professional repaint, depending on method (brush or spray) and prep.
What Does the Work Involve?
The radiator is turned off and cooled. Dust and grime removed with sugar soap. Existing finish lightly sanded with 240-grit to break the surface. Any rust or chips treated with rust-converter primer. Two coats of radiator-specific paint applied — typically heat-resistant water-based formulation. Brush gives traditional finish; spray (more masking needed) gives smoother factory look. Drying overnight between coats. Heat re-turned-on after 7-day cure.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard radiator brushed | 40 | 100 | 500–1500mm single panel |
| Large radiator brushed | 60 | 150 | 1500–2000mm or double panel |
| Spray finish radiator | 80 | 200 | Single radiator |
| Cast iron Victorian radiator brushed | 100 | 300 | Multi-section, detailed |
| Cast iron sprayed | 180 | 500 | Off-site for best result |
| Whole house (8–10 radiators) | 350 | 1,200 | Bundled discount |
| Radiator paint per tin | 10 | 25 | Covers 1–2 radiators |
How Long Does It Take?
Standard radiator brush: 2–3 hours plus drying. Spray with masking: 4–6 hours. Whole house: 2–4 days.
DIY or Professional?
DIY-friendly. The visible result depends on prep and choice of paint — quality radiator paint and proper sanding give a finish indistinguishable from professional.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
Any decorator. Confirm paint brand — Dulux Once Radiator paint, Hammerite Radiator Paint, or specialist Sandtex Radiator Enamel. Insist on heat-resistant rating (most modern radiator paints work up to 80°C).
UK Regulations
No specific regulations.
Common Problems
- Yellowing white radiators: Oil-based paints yellow with heat over years. Use water-based heat-resistant paint for non-yellowing white.
- Rust under paint: Untreated rust bleeds through new coats. Always treat with rust-converter primer first.
- Heat causing peel: Cheap paint flakes near the inlet pipe (hottest area). Use proper radiator paint, not standard emulsion.
- Brush marks visible: Standard brush leaves marks on smooth panel radiators. Use foam roller for panels, brush for detailing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I paint radiators any colour?
Yes — modern radiator paints come in any colour. Brilliant white still most popular but anthracite grey, black, and matching wall colours are increasing.
Will heat affect the paint?
Quality heat-resistant radiator paint handles 80°C+. Standard wall emulsion will eventually crack and yellow. Always use proper radiator paint.
Do I need to remove radiators?
No — paint in situ with the radiator off and cool. Masking floor and walls is enough. Removing the radiator is only needed for cast iron sprayed off-site.
How long until I can turn the heating on?
Touch-dry: 4–6 hours. Hard-dry: 24 hours. Full cure (heat-safe): 7 days for water-based paints; longer for oil-based.
Can I paint cast iron radiators?
Yes — heritage cast iron radiators paint beautifully. Spray finish (off-site) gives the period look. Specialist suppliers also offer custom colour matching.
Best paint for radiators 2026?
Dulux Once Radiator, Hammerite Radiator Paint, Rustoleum Radiator Enamel, or Sandtex Radiator Paint. Water-based formulations are now the standard.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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