Choosing the right radiator paint can transform your home’s heating into a design asset. With years of expertise in home improvement, I’ve rigorously tested various radiator paints to identify the best for UK homes. This article guides you through selecting a paint that’s not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and safe, ensuring your radiators enhance your space effectively.
Our Picks
We have compiled a list of the best radiator paints available in the UK for you. These high-quality choices have been selected based on their performance, durability, and ease of application. Let’s explore our top picks below.
RUSTINS Quick Drying Radiator Enamel Satin 250ml
This RUSTINS radiator paint is an excellent choice for those seeking a quick-drying and heat-resistant solution for their radiator makeovers.
Pros
- Heat resistant
- Touch dry in 30 minutes
- Can be used for touching up fridges and white appliances
Cons
- Thinner than some other radiator paints
- Might need multiple coats for full coverage
- Small tin size, but the paint goes a long way
We recently used the RUSTINS Quick Drying Radiator Enamel and found it to be an efficient and convenient option for refreshing our radiators. The heat resistance ensures that the paint maintains its satin finish, even when the radiators are in full use.
The paint dries impressively fast, as it became touch dry in just 30 minutes, allowing us to move on to other tasks in our home improvement project. The fact that it can also be utilised for touching up fridges and other white appliances makes it a versatile option for various household fixes.
Despite the paint being thinner than some other radiator paints we’ve tried, it does look great when the job is done. We did need to apply two coats for that perfect finish, but the small 250ml tin was sufficient to cover four large radiators and one small radiator. Overall, we highly recommend the RUSTINS Quick Drying Radiator Enamel Satin for an efficient and top-quality result.
Hammerite 500ml Radiator Enamel Paint – Satin White
Hammerite Radiator Paint is the ideal choice if you want a durable and attractive white finish on your household radiators and hot water pipes.
Pros
- Heat resistant and brilliant white finish
- Resists yellowing and prevents rust formation
- Low odour and touch dry in 4-6 hours
Cons
- Paint may be thin and can run if applied too heavily
- Intense smell during the application may cause discomfort
- Proper surface preparation is necessary for optimal results
We recently used Hammerite 500ml Radiator Enamel Paint on our water-filled radiators at home. The paint was easy to apply, and we were pleasantly surprised by the low odour, considering previous experiences with other radiator paints. Hammerite’s Radiator Paint dries quickly, becoming touch-dry in just 4-6 hours.
The heat resistant and brilliant white finish of the paint adds an appealing and fresh look to our radiators. Notably, Hammerite Radiator Paint resists yellowing, which is a significant issue with other radiator paints. Also, the paint prevents rust formation, prolonging the life of our radiators and pipes.
However, we found that the paint can be a bit thin and may run if applied too heavily. It’s essential to apply the paint in thin layers to avoid streaks or drips. Additionally, some users may experience headaches due to the intense smell during application. To avoid this, we made sure to keep the room well-ventilated. Finally, adequately preparing the surface is necessary for best results, so take the time to do it right before starting your paint job.
In conclusion, Hammerite Radiator Paint is a great choice for those looking to give their radiators and pipes a durable and visually appealing finish. With heat resistance, rust prevention, and a brilliant white finish, it’s an excellent product for this purpose. Just make sure to apply it correctly to enjoy its full benefits.
Hammerite Radiator Paint
We highly recommend Hammerite Radiator Paint for those looking to give their radiators a fresh, long-lasting finish and protection against rust.
Pros
- Long-lasting glossy finish
- Heat resistant
- Easy to use
Cons
- Requires multiple cans for full coverage
- Might spray around the surrounding area
- Adequate ventilation needed
We recently used the Hammerite Radiator Paint on our old, discoloured radiators, and the results were impressive. The paint is specially formulated to withstand high temperatures and resists yellowing over time. We didn’t notice any harmful fumes when heating the radiators, which is essential for indoor use.
Applying the paint was a breeze; we just brushed off any loose or flaky paint and sprayed two coats, waiting for 15 minutes between them. The smooth glossy finish made our radiators look brand new. However, we needed a couple of cans to cover the entire radiator, so plan accordingly.
One minor issue we faced was some paint spraying around the surrounding area. To prevent this, we recommend using a drop cloth to cover nearby surfaces while using the aerosol. Also, make sure to adequately ventilate the room during application.
In conclusion, Hammerite Radiator Paint is an excellent option for revamping and protecting your radiators. With its long-lasting glossy finish and heat-resistant properties, it offers great value for money and ensures your radiators stay looking fresh for years. Just be prepared to purchase multiple cans for full coverage and take precautions to minimise paint overspray.
Johnstone’s Quick Dry Satin, Manhattan Grey, 750ml
We highly recommend Johnstone’s Quick Dry Satin for those seeking a durable, non-yellowing paint with a contemporary finish.
Pros
- Water-based, low odour formulation
- Quick drying (1-2 hours)
- Non-yellowing
Cons
- Intense odour for a few days
- May require reapplication over time
- Can show brush strokes if not applied with a quality brush
Johnstone’s Quick Dry Satin, Manhattan Grey, 750ml offers a water-based, low odour formulation that is perfect for interior wood and metal surfaces such as skirting boards, doors, radiators and staircases. We tried it on our doors, and the colour turned out fresh with a glossy effect. The quick-drying feature allowed us to complete our painting task in no time.
While the paint covers well initially, we noticed that it tends to discolour with time, just like most easy wash paints. This means you might need to reapply it in certain areas as time goes by. However, if applied correctly, it leaves a durable finish which should last well.
When using Johnstone’s Quick Dry Satin, it is essential to use a high-quality paintbrush to avoid visible brush strokes. Although the paint is labelled as low odour, we found the smell quite intense for a few days before it eventually dissipated. Nonetheless, considering its ease of application and overall quality, we believe this paint is worth trying for those in search of a reliable radiator paint in the UK.
Rust-Oleum Blue Heat Resistant Radiator Paint – Nan’s Best China 750ml
This Rust-Oleum radiator paint is a fantastic option to rejuvenate your dated or discoloured radiators, giving them a glossy and vibrant finish.
Pros
- Incredibly vibrant colour and glossy sheen
- Non-yellowing and mould-resistant
- Easy to apply by brush, roller, or electric sprayer
Cons
- Requires pre-primed or previously painted radiators
- Maximum heat resistance up to 60°C
- Limited to 14m² coverage per litre
We’ve recently used this Rust-Oleum radiator paint in the beautiful Nan’s Best China shade, and we’re quite impressed by its performance. The dazzling blue colour truly transformed our old radiators, and the glossy finish just adds that extra touch of elegance to our rooms.
What we liked about this paint was how easy it was to apply. We could use a brush, roller, or even an electric sprayer without any issues. The water-based formula keeps the odour low, and it’s resistant to yellowing and mould, ensuring a long-lasting, fresh look for our radiators.
As great as this product is, there are a few things we feel are worth mentioning. Firstly, the paint is best suited for pre-primed or previously painted radiators. As for heat resistance, it withstands temperatures up to 60°C, which may be a concern for those with high-temperature radiators. Lastly, the coverage is around 14m² per litre, which might necessitate buying additional cans for larger painting jobs.
Overall, we believe the Rust-Oleum Blue Heat Resistant Radiator Paint is a quick and effective way to revamp your dated or discoloured radiators. With its vibrant Nan’s Best China colour, glossy finish, and easy application process, your radiators will look good as new in no time.
Johnstone’s Speciality Gloss Paint for Radiators – Brilliant White 250ml
We believe Johnstone’s Speciality Gloss Paint is a reliable option for those looking to revamp their radiators and hot water pipes.
Pros
- Quick drying
- Non-yellowing
- Suitable for use on hot water pipes
Cons
- Small container size
- May require multiple coats
- Not the best for heavily marked radiators
We recently used Johnstone’s Speciality Gloss Paint on our radiators and found it to be a practical solution for a quick refresh. The paint is water-based, making it quick to dry and easy to apply. Additionally, it’s non-yellowing, so it retains its brilliant white gloss finish over time.
Despite having a 250ml container, we realised that it might not be suitable for larger projects. If you are planning to paint multiple radiators or need to cover a larger surface area, you might find the 250ml container a tad too small. It could also be worth considering purchasing a bigger tin to have enough coverage.
On less marked radiators, this paint worked perfectly; however, we discovered that it took three coats on heavily marked ones to get the desired finish. This might not be ideal if you are in a hurry or wish to complete your project quickly. Nonetheless, the paint’s quick-drying feature somewhat compensates for the extra time needed to apply multiple coats.
In conclusion, Johnstone’s Speciality Gloss Paint is ideal for sprucing up radiators and hot water pipes while providing a durable and gloss finish. However, bear in mind the potential need for multiple coats and container size based on your project needs.
Johnstone’s Quick Dry Gloss Radiator Paint
This paint is an excellent choice for those looking for a quick-drying, high-quality paint for their radiators.
Pros
- Fast drying in 1-2 hours
- Low odour and water-based
- Wide range of colours
Cons
- Less glossy than oil-based paint
- Could be more durable
- Can be runny, might drip when applying
As we applied the Johnstone’s Quick Dry Gloss Radiator Paint, we found it to be very easy to work with, providing a smooth finish to our radiators. Its high-opacity covers surfaces evenly, making our radiators look refreshed and updated. Thanks to its water-based formula, this paint dries quickly, allowing us to get on with other tasks without waiting for long durations.
Furthermore, this paint is available in a wide range of colours, giving us the opportunity to choose the perfect shade to suit our interior design. We particularly appreciated that the paint is low-odour, allowing us to work with it comfortably without any strong fumes that can be found with many traditional paints.
However, while the paint dries to a high-sheen finish, it is worth noting that it is less glossy than some oil-based paint alternatives. In terms of durability, it could be improved as it may not last as long as one would expect. Lastly, during the application process, we noticed that the paint can be a bit runny, so extra care is needed to avoid drips.
Overall, Johnstone’s Quick Dry Gloss Radiator Paint offers an accessible, rapid-drying solution for those looking to revamp their radiators, but be prepared to pay extra attention to drips and consider whether its finish and durability will meet your specific needs.
M1SS 151 Radiator Enamel White Gloss Paint
This M1SS Radiator Enamel offers excellent performance with a long-lasting, heat-resistant finish for radiators and pipes.
Pros
- Heat resistant and low odour
- Prevents rust and provides a tough finish
- Suitable for water filled radiators, pipes, fridges, and white appliances
Cons
- Not for use on oil-filled electric radiators
- Strong smell during application
- Small tin – may not be enough for multiple radiators
We recently used the M1SS 151 Radiator Enamel White Gloss paint to rejuvenate a yellowing radiator, and we were quite impressed with the result. The paint was easy to apply, and we noticed that it was low in odour, which is perfect for working in smaller or enclosed spaces, though it’s essential to maintain proper ventilation.
One thing we appreciated about this paint was its rust prevention properties. We were happily surprised by the long-lasting, tough finish it provided. Since it’s also heat resistant, the paint maintained its fresh appearance even after using the radiator for an extended period.
However, we did encounter a few drawbacks. The paint is not suitable for oil-filled electric radiators, limiting its versatility. The strong smell during application required us to wear a mask, so make sure to keep the area well-ventilated when applying this paint. Additionally, the tin’s size was relatively small, so it might not be enough if you plan to paint multiple radiators or larger surfaces.
In conclusion, the M1SS 151 Radiator Enamel White Gloss Paint is a great choice for updating your water-filled radiators, pipes, and certain appliances. The heat-resistant, low odour formulation makes it easy to work with, and the durable finish ensures your radiator will look fresh and well-maintained for a long time. Despite the few drawbacks, it’s definitely worth considering for your radiator paint needs.
Polar Gloss White Radiator Spray Paint
The Polar Gloss White Radiator Spray Paint is a reliable choice for anyone looking to refresh and protect their radiators with ease.
Pros
- Heat resistant up to 100ºC
- No primer needed and quick drying
- Suitable for various surfaces
Cons
- Suitable for interior use only
- Spray may run out after a single coat
- Fumes can linger for a while
We recently used the Polar Gloss White Radiator Spray Paint to refresh a couple of radiators in our home and were pleased with the results. The specially formulated paint is heat resistant up to 100ºC, making it perfect for radiators, hot water tanks, and other heat-related items. We found that it adhered well to various surfaces, such as wood, glass, plastic, and metal, without needing a primer. Additionally, the paint dried incredibly quickly, taking only 10 to 20 minutes.
However, there are a few downsides we encountered while using this product. The paint is designed for interior use only, limiting its versatility. We also noticed that the spray can may run out after just one coat on a regular-sized radiator. The paint itself can be slightly prone to chipping over time. Another thing worth mentioning is that the fumes from the spray can linger for some time after application, which could be unpleasant for some users.
In conclusion, the Polar Gloss White Radiator Spray Paint is a solid choice for those looking to quickly and easily refresh the look of their radiators and other heat-related items. The easy application, quick-drying feature, and compatibility with various surfaces make it a convenient solution. However, be prepared for possible chipping and lingering fumes during and after use.
Hammerite Paint Direct to Rust
Invest in the Hammerite Paint Direct to Rust for an easy-to-use, long-lasting protection on all your metal surfaces.
Pros
- Paint directly onto rust
- Simple preparation and application
- Suitable for various metal surfaces
Cons
- Coverage may vary depending on surface conditions
- Longer drying time (2 hours) compared to some alternatives
- Limited size option (250ml tin only)
We recently used the Hammerite Paint Direct to Rust on some of our exterior metalwork, and we were delighted with the results. The preparation process was hassle-free; we just brushed away any loose paint or rust, then applied two coats of the paint directly onto the metal without the need for sanding, undercoat, or primer.
The alkyd-technology formula not only grants a satin finish to the surface but also acts as a rust converter. This ensures that the paint lasts for years and helps prevent rust and corrosion from forming. We found it perfect for gates, railings, garden furniture, and even garage doors.
One thing to consider is the drying time, which may be longer than some other options at 2 hours. However, we were delighted with the coverage provided by the 250ml tin, which covered up to 1.25m2. This was perfect for smaller projects like refreshing our garden furniture. Hammerite Paint Direct to Rust offered a quality, durable finish, and we were pleased to have chosen it for our metal painting needs.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best radiator paint in the UK, there are a few key factors to consider. We want to make sure that we choose a product that not only looks good but also offers long-lasting protection and efficiency.
Colour and Finish
One of the first things to consider is the colour and finish of the paint. Radiator paints come in a variety of colours and finishes, including gloss, satin, and matt. To find the perfect match for your interior design, consider the other colours and finishes used within the room. For a more discreet look, opt for radiator paint that closely matches the wall colour.
Heat Resistance
Another important factor is the paint’s ability to withstand high temperatures. Since radiators emit heat, it’s essential to choose a paint that’s formulated to resist high temperatures and prevent discolouration, peeling, or blistering. Always check the product description to ensure that the paint is heat-resistant and suitable for radiators.
Application
We suggest looking at the application process for the radiator paint. Some paints require a primer, while others can be applied directly to the radiator’s surface. Additionally, consider whether the paint is water-based or oil-based. Water-based paints usually have less odour, dry faster, and offer easier clean-up. On the other hand, oil-based paints are typically more durable and have a smoother finish.
Drying Time
When painting your radiator, you’ll want to minimise the downtime and get it back in use as soon as possible. Opt for radiator paint that has a quick drying time. Most products will provide an estimated drying time within the product description.
It’s important to remember that these factors will vary depending on individual needs and preferences. By taking these key features into account when searching for the best radiator paint, you can be confident that you’re making an informed decision and investing in a product that meets your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of paint should I use for my radiator?
We recommend using a paint specifically designed for radiators. These paints can withstand high temperatures and are long-lasting. They come in various finishes, such as gloss, satin, or matt, allowing you to choose the look that best suits your interior.
Can I paint my radiator with regular paint or do I need a special one?
It is best to use a special radiator paint instead of regular paint. Radiator paints are formulated to withstand the heat produced by the radiator without peeling, cracking, or discolouration. Regular paint may not hold up well to the heat and could result in a poor finish.
Which brands offer the best radiator paint?
Some popular and reliable brands for radiator paint in the UK include Hammerite, Rust-Oleum, Blackfriar, and Ronseal. These brands offer good-quality products that have been specifically formulated for radiators, ensuring a durable and long-lasting finish.
How can I ensure proper paint application on my radiator?
For proper paint application, first clean the radiator surface, removing any dust or debris. Sand the surface lightly if needed, and make sure it is completely dry before applying paint. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the radiator paint regarding application method, drying time, and the number of coats. Use a paintbrush or roller designed for radiator painting for smooth and even coverage.
What is the most effective way to paint a rusty radiator?
To paint a rusty radiator, first remove any loose rust with a wire brush or sandpaper. After cleaning and sanding, apply a rust converter or rust-inhibiting primer to prevent further rusting. Once the primer is fully dry, proceed with applying your radiator paint, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Are there any heat-resistant paints suitable for radiators?
Yes, radiator paints are typically formulated as heat-resistant, meaning they can withstand the high temperatures produced by radiators without degradation. Look for paints labelled as “radiator paint” or “heat-resistant” when purchasing to ensure you choose a suitable product.