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Why Would You Want to Cover a Radiator?
There are a few main reasons why you might want to cover an old radiator in your home:
- Aesthetics – Old cast iron radiators can be large, bulky and not very decorative. Covering them up can help improve the look of a room.
- Safety – Old radiators can have sharp edges and get very hot. Covering them prevents accidental burns, especially for kids and pets.
- Efficiency – Covering radiators with insulated or reflective materials can help direct more heat into the room instead of letting it dissipate into the walls and air.
- Noise – The knocking and clanging sounds from an old steam radiator can be distracting. A cover helps muffle radiator noise.
Radiator covers essentially create a barrier between the radiator and the rest of the room. This allows you to conceal an unsightly radiator while still allowing it to heat the room effectively.
What Materials Can Be Used to Cover a Radiator?
There are a variety of different materials that can be used to cover or build an enclosure around a wall-mounted radiator:
- Wood – Wood panels or planks are a popular choice for DIY radiator covers. Pine boards, plywood, MDF or other wood materials can be cut to size and mounted around the radiator. Wood can then be painted or stained to match the room’s decor.
- Metal – Aluminum sheets or perforated steel can be used to create sleek, modern cover panels for radiators. Metals conduct heat well while still concealing the radiator itself.
- Radiator Covers – Pre-fabricated radiator covers made of wood, metal or plastic are available. These snap or mount directly onto existing radiators.
- Fabric – Radiators can be boxed in using rigid frames wrapped in fabric covers. Burlap, cotton, canvas or other heat-safe fabrics create a soft, tailored look.
- Decorative Screens – Radiator screens made of perforated metal or carved wood sit in front of the radiator to conceal it while allowing heat to pass through. Screen panels are another DIY-friendly option.
The key is to find or create a cover that provides enough ventilation to prevent the radiator from overheating. The cover material itself should also be heat-resistant.
How to Cover a Cast Iron Radiator
Here are some step-by-step instructions for two different ways to cover up an old cast iron radiator:
Method 1: Simple Wood Frame and Fabric Cover
- Measure the dimensions of the radiator and cut four planks of wood to match (include clearance for heat circulation).
- Secure the wood pieces into a rectangular frame using screws or nails. Make sure the wood frame fits snugly around the radiator.
- Cut a piece of cotton fabric to match the size of the frame, allowing several extra inches on all sides.
- Stretch the fabric over the back of the frame and staple it securely in place on the backside.
- Use scissors to trim off any excess fabric at the corners and edges for a clean look.
- Attach mounting brackets to the back frame, then securely attach the fabric-covered frame to the wall around the radiator.
This simple fabric box conceals the radiator while still allowing heat to radiate through the fabric. Choose a thick, heat-safe fabric like cotton, canvas or denim.
Method 2: Custom Wood Radiator Cover
For a more seamless and integrated look, you can build a custom wood cover that wraps around the radiator:
- Measure the radiator and cut boards to size – allow for a few inches clearance on all sides.
- Cut wood panels to cover the front and back of the radiator. Cut additional vertical side pieces to box in the radiator.
- Use wood glue and nails, screws or brackets to assemble the pieces into a box frame around the radiator.
- Use filler strips or sealant to seal any gaps between the wood and the wall.
- Add optional decorative trim pieces along the edges for a finished look.
- Prime, paint or stain the wood cover to match your room. Leave ventilation gaps between boards.
- Allow the wood finish to fully dry before remounting the cover over the radiator.
This built-in style cover provides a seamless, integrated look, as if the radiator cover is part of the wall itself.
Radiator Cover Ideas and Design Tips
Covering a bulky old radiator doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. With some clever design choices, you can actually turn a radiator cover into an eye-catching focal point:
- Incorporate shelves above the radiator for displaying plants, decor or books.
- Use neutral fabrics like burlap or cotton for a modern, minimalist look.
- Paint or finish the cover in bold, contrasting colors to accentuate it.
- Add molding trim and decorative legs for a classic, built-in feel.
- Use whimsical fabric prints or textures like tweed or tartan for fun.
- Attach creative radiator covers like shutters, hinged panels or sliding barn doors.
- Incorporate useful storage with drawers or cabinets built into the cover.
You aren’t limited to just simple boxes or flat panels. With some additional carpentry skills, you can create covers with lots of personality.
DIY vs Professional Radiator Covers
Is it better to DIY or hire a professional when installing radiator covers? Here’s a quick comparison:
Benefits of DIY Radiator Covers
- Much less expensive than custom fabrication
- Ability to customize the design, size, materials etc.
- Fun weekend project for handy homeowners
Benefits of Professional Radiator Covers
- Perfectly fitted to radiator and wall dimensions
- Higher quality materials and construction
- Get professional design input and installation
- Don’t have to do the work yourself!
If your radiators are unusually sized or shaped, hiring a metal or wood fabrication shop to create custom covers may be worth the additional expense for a seamless fit.
DIY covers are a great budget-friendly option for standard radiators. You get to control the design choices too.
How Much Does it Cost to Cover a Radiator?
Radiator cover costs can range widely depending on whether you buy a pre-made cover, build your own or hire a professional:
- Prefab covers – $50 – $300+ depending on size, material and style.
- DIY covers – Under $50 for simple fabric covers. $100 – $500+ for more complex wood or metal builds.
- Professional installation – $200 – $1000+ per radiator depending on labor, customization and materials.
Here are some ways to reduce costs if you’re covering multiple unit heaters:
- Use simple, uniform DIY designs across all radiators.
- Buy in bulk – purchase enough materials for all covers at once.
- Hire labor just for installation rather than full custom fabrication.
- Use less expensive materials like plywood instead of hardwoods.
Covering over old, ugly radiators is one of the most affordable ways to instantly upgrade the look of a room. With a little time and DIY skills, you can completely transform your radiators on just about any budget.
Conclusion
Radiator covers allow you to conceal unsightly heating units in your home while still allowing them to work effectively. A simple fabric cover box can be made easily with just a wood frame, fabric, and staple gun. For a more integrated look, custom built-in covers with wood panels and trim provide a seamless finish. DIY covers are budget-friendly, while professional fabrication ensures a perfect fit. With some clever design choices, you can even make your radiator cover into an eye-catching focal point in any room. Take your pick from the many materials and design options to create the perfect cover solution.