Radiator Covers: Cost and Proper Installation

Radiator Covers: Cost and Proper Installation

Radiator covers, when well-designed, can serve a practical purpose beyond just aesthetic enhancement. But how are radiator covers installed? What is the cost of installing radiator covers? What materials can they be made from? What installation guidelines should be followed?

In older buildings undergoing renovation, one significant issue is what to do with the radiators. Even after painting, radiators can still appear unsightly. Radiator covers offer a solution that is more than just cosmetic.

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A well-placed radiator cover can not only hide an unattractive detail but also enhance the space. From a practical standpoint, the area can be transformed into useful storage with a shelf for small items. During summer, when the radiator is not in use, the cover can serve as a perfect spot for flower pots. For low radiators, a well-crafted cover can even double as a bench.

Materials for Radiator Covers

There are various options available when it comes to radiator covers, offered by both large companies and small carpentry workshops. These covers are custom-made, and the price varies depending on the dimensions and materials used. Common materials include wood, particle board, MDF, plywood, metal, and glass, catering to different preferences and budgets.

This guide is particularly useful for those with some carpentry experience and the willingness to DIY their radiator covers. However, even if you hire someone, knowing the basics of proper installation can be beneficial. The cost of custom-made radiator covers ranges from $60 to $150 per linear foot, depending on the material. This price range might encourage those with the skills to undertake this relatively straightforward project themselves.

Key Installation Guidelines

Besides aesthetics, a few essential rules must be followed to ensure the radiator’s heating efficiency is not compromised. An improperly installed radiator cover can significantly reduce its heating capability. With minimal modifications, the radiator’s efficiency can remain unchanged or only slightly reduced. In some cases, a well-designed radiator cover can even enhance the airflow, improving heating efficiency.

Ensuring Efficient Heating

Understanding how a radiator heats a room is crucial. A common misconception is that a radiator emits all its heat from the front. While the front does emit some heat, it is minimal. Radiators primarily heat a room through air circulation. Heated air rises from between the radiator fins, drawing cooler air from below and releasing warm air from above.

To accommodate this airflow, the front of the radiator cover can be a solid panel that completely hides the radiator. However, it’s vital to leave a gap at the bottom for cool air to enter and at the top for warm air to exit. This top opening can be a simple slit or covered with a panel that doubles as a shelf. Alternatively, a wooden panel with holes or a metal grille can be used on top.

Another design option is to use a front grille made of metal or wooden slats, which might enhance aesthetics more than functionality. The key is to ensure continuous air movement with openings at both the bottom and top of the cover.

Design Considerations for Cleaning

Regular cleaning access is essential when installing a radiator cover. The cover should be easy to remove or open for cleaning dust and cobwebs, which accumulate during the heating season. This can be achieved by designing the front panel to be easily detachable or using hinges to allow the cover to open like a cabinet.

For example, some people opt for a combination of drywall and wood panels to cover the radiator, which can be visually appealing. However, it’s important to plan for annual access for cleaning. Otherwise, dust and debris will build up inside the cover, reducing the radiator’s heating efficiency over time. Additionally, ensure easy access to the radiator’s shut-off valve and air vent.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your radiator cover enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of your space without compromising the heating efficiency of your radiators.

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