Cast iron radiators can look fantastic in any room, adding a slight hint of elegance in spaces that are usually reserved for basic looking radiators. While it is nice to have a high-quality cast iron radiator take pride of place on the wall, it is all too easy to trip up on common pitfalls which would see you making easy mistakes when buying and installing cast iron radiators.
So what should anyone know to avoid making mistakes and ensure that when they buy a spanking new cast iron radiator that they’ve made the right decision? Let’s look at three very simple mistakes to avoid that should help you find the right radiator.
Mistake 1: You’ve not sectioned correctly
If you’re sitting in a room right now with a simple flat panel radiator, take notice of how it is all one panel. Traditionally, cast iron radiators are made to look like one unit but are actually made up of sections which are joined (not welded) together.
A very simple mistake to make is underestimating the number of sections needed, as it will greatly affect the length of the radiator, and invariably make it difficult to connect to your heating system. Always check that any cast iron radiator you’re thinking of buying is either the same length or smaller than your current radiator (cast iron radiators typically have a slightly higher heat output). Depending on the specific style you want, you’re looking at 50cm-100cm difference going up one section at a time.
Mistake 2: You don’t know your finishes
While radiator design certainly helps your installation look the part, get the wrong finish, and you’ll have a cast iron radiator which stands out for all the wrong reasons. When you buy a cast iron radiator, it will usually have a finish applied over the top. In the rare case where the radiator hasn’t been painted and appears “bare” it is the case that the radiator will have clear lacquer applied to help prevent oxidisation on the surface.
Make sure you seriously consider whether you want a dull or polished finish applied. While you might instinctively think that polished is the way to go, it is a very bright and shiny finish which only really works in rooms where you have a lot of natural light, i.e. if you have an airy open-plan kitchen it looks great, but if you have a carpeted bedroom, it will look out of place.
If you’d like a clearer idea of the types of cast iron radiator finishes available, and what the different types of polish entail, I recommend visiting Trade Radiators, who have dozens of cast iron finishes available.
Mistake 3: You forgot to complete your installation
A bit like wearing white socks with black trousers, if you don’t get the right accessories when buying a cast iron radiator, the installation may look odd. This mistake mainly refers to forgetting to have matching radiator valves in place. However, you can avoid all such mistakes if you have detailed knowledge about this specific radiator. You can visit Radiator Outlet to learn everything about the radiators.
Try and source cast iron valves which have a matching finish, or which have a similar look. The simple white plastic caps should be avoided, especially if you’re buying an expensive radiator you want to look the part. And if you’re someone who wants to keep an eye on how hot a room gets, you should be looking for cast iron style thermostatic valves, which will usually be plastic valves with the cap painted to mimic cast iron.
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Special mention: Check out the iron works in modern designs from naddourscustommetalworks
