Heating radiators are an inconspicuous element of our home and fit harmoniously into its interior if they are new, shining with fresh paint. But if the batteries are already old, the paint on them is faded and swollen, then in this state they are striking and are unlikely to decorate the house. The problem can be resolved by replacing the batteries. But this is expensive and not always justified, so there is another option - to repaint the batteries. For this purpose, special paint for heating radiators is used. Its purpose is to protect the surface of the batteries from corrosion, giving them the desired color, as well as a decent appearance. And if earlier pipelines were painted only white, now they are painted in the color that best suits the design of the room. Our article will discuss what paint to choose for heating radiators and how to paint them correctly.

Rules for choosing the right paint

The final result depends on the correct choice of paint. Here you should take into account the requirements for paint for radiators and heating pipes. This:

• high heat resistance (at least 100°C);
• abrasion resistance;
• resistance to aggressive environments;
• no toxicity.

Paints specifically designed for painting heating radiators are of the following types:

1. Acrylic enamels. They are produced using organic solvents, so their drying is accompanied by the release of a characteristic solvent odor. But the result is a pleasant glossy shine that lasts for many years.
2. Alkyd enamels. The surface painted with this paint is resistant to high temperatures and abrasion. This paint is available in a fairly wide range of colors; you can choose any color you like, so it is very popular among consumers. Another disadvantage is the unpleasant odor, which persists for several days after painting, but may renew at high temperatures.
3. Water-dispersion paints. This choice is considered optimal, since these compositions do not have a specific odor and dry much faster. You just need to pay attention that the packaging is marked: for painting heating radiators and pipelines.

There is also oil paint, but recently it has been little used for this purpose; this option has become obsolete. Which paint is best for radiators? Each of them has its pros and cons, so the choice ultimately remains with the consumer.

Paint for heating radiators must be heat-resistant, abrasion-resistant and free of harmful substances

Preparing batteries for processing

To achieve high-quality painting of batteries, you need to properly prepare their surface for painting. The preparatory work before painting takes longer than the painting itself.

Preparing batteries for painting is carried out in the following order:

1. Thoroughly clean the surface before painting: remove the old layer of paint, and clean the places where rust has appeared to a metallic shine. Dust and dirt are wiped off with a wet cloth, and old paint is removed using a spatula and special wash-off solutions.
2. The washing solution is applied to the surface of the battery and covered with a film to soften it. After this, the paint is easily removed with a spatula, a grinder or a metal brush attached to a drill. In this case, it is advisable to put on construction gloves and protect the respiratory tract with a respirator or gauze bandage.
3. Next, the surface of the battery is sanded with sandpaper, then degreased with white spirit or any slightly alkaline solution.
4. An anti-corrosion primer is applied to a well-cleaned surface, which will not only protect it from corrosion, but also increase the adhesion of the paint to the surface of the battery. An alkyd-based primer is best for this.

It is imperative to choose a primer that has anti-corrosion properties (this is usually indicated on the can), otherwise after a while rust will appear again. The paint will adhere perfectly to a well-prepared surface.

In order for the battery to be painted with high quality, it is necessary to carefully prepare its surface - wipe off the old paint, remove rust, wash off dust and dirt

Modern hardware stores offer a large selection of paints that already contain a primer and a rust converter. They are convenient because they are applied to heating radiators without prior preparation of the base.

Painting process technology

Now let's look at how to paint a radiator to achieve a good result. This must be done with the heating turned off, otherwise in some areas the paint will dry too quickly, lay down in an uneven layer, and smudges will form that look unsightly. Of course, there is a special paint on sale that is intended for use on hot radiators, but it can also go unevenly if the heating is not turned off.

Currently, heating radiators are painted in colors that best suit the overall interior design of the room.

If there is no other way out and you have to paint the heating device during the heating period, then you need to at least turn off the hot water supply yourself or make this request to the housing office employees. In this case, the temperature at the radiator will drop significantly.

So, if you have already decided which paint is best to paint radiators, you can proceed directly to the painting process:

1. First of all, you need to take care to protect the floor from contamination with paint stains. To do this, lay unnecessary paper or fabric under the batteries.
2. Choose small brushes with soft bristles, one straight and the other curved, to paint hard-to-reach areas.
3. Apply paint first to the top of the battery and move towards the bottom. Paint the battery on all sides: first the internal ceilings, then the external ones, to avoid staining hands and clothes. After the 1st layer of paint has dried, apply the second. You need to remember the rule that two thin layers of paint are better than one thick one. After all, only in the first case will a uniform and smooth paint coating be guaranteed.

The radiator can also be painted with a spray gun or from a spray can.

Painting a heating radiator with heat-resistant paint from a spray can is convenient and quick, while the paint lays down in a thin, uniform layer

When using a spray gun, it is recommended to remove the battery so that you can paint all hard-to-reach areas. Painting using a can filled with heat-resistant paint is done very quickly and efficiently. Typically, detailed instructions for painting surfaces with a spray can are given on its packaging. The basic rule: perform zigzag movements from top to bottom at approximately a distance of 30 cm from the surface to be painted.

Before painting heating radiators, it is important to study the technology of this process, because compliance with it will ensure the attractive appearance of the heating device and its reliability.

There are times when painting a heating radiator is not just a whim of the owners, but really a necessity caused by certain factors.

So, the unit should be coated with a coloring compound if:

• purchased a new heating device. Many residents often have a question about how to paint a cast iron battery, since devices made from this material are often supplied unpainted;
• it was decided to carry out renovation work to update the interior of the premises;
• During operation, the heating device lost its normal appearance and turned into an outdated unit with peeling paint. This is especially true for traditional cast iron batteries, which were so popular in the last century.

In addition, it is very important that painting cast iron batteries does not in any way affect the heat transfer performance of the device, otherwise the performance of the equipment will significantly decrease.

Before preparing the battery for painting, you should remember that preliminary cleaning requires not only the old, but also the new battery, where there will always be some unevenness and dirty areas. The surface of the radiator must be thoroughly cleaned and then degreased.

1. The old paint layer does not have any cracks or chips. This means that the previous painting radiators was performed as correctly as possible, so in this case you can proceed directly to applying a fresh coating.
2. If the surface of the battery has small areas with chipped and peeling paint, this means that these areas require sanding to obtain a smooth surface, and only then painting.
3. Provided that the old coating has come off almost completely, painting radiators can only be done with serious preparatory work, which will require the use of a brush equipped with iron bristles, or a special washing solution with the addition of a certain amount of alkali.

It happens that areas exposed to rust appear on an old radiator. In this case, you can use various kinds of compounds that destroy this plaque, which are always available in any hardware store.

The modern construction market offers a wide range of paints and color schemes for them, so the choice of what is best to paint heating radiators usually depends on the preferences of the owners themselves.

However, when choosing a coloring composition, the following recommendations should be taken into account:

• the selected paint must withstand high temperatures (from 80 to 90°C);
• when choosing, you should understand that the composition must have a homogeneous structure and have good wear resistance, so as not to lose its attractive appearance during operation;
• It is extremely important to make the paint resistant to the appearance of various harmful formations such as corrosion on the surface of the radiator.

Often, experts, answering the question regarding what and how to paint old batteries, advise using various types of enamels that meet all the above standards. At the same time, it is worth distinguishing the compositions according to their technical features.

After the surface of the battery has been properly treated, it is necessary to apply a primer layer to it so that the paint adheres better to the device.

If the paint is in normal condition without visible flaws, if there is only one layer (or two) and they lie flat, you can paint on top without removing the old coating. Only pre-treatment is required.

If you want to paint an aluminum or bimetallic battery, in which you are not satisfied only with the color, think carefully about whether it is worth spoiling the good coating. Maybe it’s worth covering the radiator with a screen in this case? And one more thing: if your radiators are under warranty, then after painting the factory (or seller) will refuse warranty repairs. Even if the reason is completely different.

If you want to get a color similar to the “factory” one, contact a specialized service station. They paint cars using the same technology. Maybe they will agree to paint your radiators

If you still need to paint an aluminum or bimetallic radiator, it is better to contact a specialized auto repair shop. Only they can help professionally. If you want to do everything yourself, you can use spray paint for cars. But with this option, there is a possibility that in those places where the radiator is often touched, the top layer will wear off, although it depends on the quality of the car enamel and the starting coating of the radiator.

If you still decide to use auto enamel, you need to work on hot batteries. And the hotter the better. Drying time at 130oC is 20 minutes, at 60oC - 40 minutes, and at 20oC - a month.

Important condition: during work and all the time while the paint dries, the window must be open, the doors to other rooms must be closed. Please wear a mask and gloves when working.

Everything around will have to be covered with paper and old rags. The can is a good thing, but it was almost turned in the wrong direction, and everything is painted to match the radiators... While working, keep the distance required for uniform spraying - it’s about 20-30 cm, but it’s written exactly on the packaging. And in general, even before purchasing, carefully read the instructions and recommendations for use. This way you will understand whether you can provide the required conditions for applying paint.

The order is the same: start with the inner surfaces, then go over the outer ones from top to bottom. Don't try to get the color perfect the first time. This is almost impossible, especially if the base color is white and some bright shade is applied to it. If you keep the stream in one place for too long, sagging and drips will appear. They are much more difficult to deal with than unpainted areas. It is better to apply one or two more layers after complete drying. The result will be better.

Most often, old-style cast iron batteries need painting. It is definitely better to carry out the work after the end of the heating season: it will be safer for you and the painting will be of better quality. Then the order is:

There may be two options here. If there is a factory sprayed enamel, it is better to use a can of auto enamel. If the paint is ordinary, the procedure is the same as for cast iron. The only difference is that it will be easier to paint the front panel with a roller rather than with brushes.

But in panel radiators you also need to change the color of the grilles. They will need to be painted with brushes. If there is rust on the gratings, they should first be cleaned, then treated with a rust converter, primed (with a composition with an anti-corrosion effect), and only then painted. The easiest way to buy all these products is at the car market - there are a lot of them in different packaging.

Use a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove accumulated dust and small debris.

All internal and external surfaces are thoroughly washed with detergent.

Remove the old paint layer in one of 3 ways:

• washed off with a chemical composition;
• removed mechanically using a drill and special attachments - brushes;
• soften old paint with a hair dryer or torch, remove with a spatula.

Chemical compositions for removing old paint (removal) are produced in the form of liquids or aerosols.

Important! When choosing a washing solution, pay attention to the composition: it should include components that prevent corrosion.

The softened paint layer is removed with a spatula, or a rag will do. Removing paint without softening is done using a drill with a brush attachment with metal teeth. After cleaning off the old paint, the surface is dusted: manually - with a brush, broom or vacuum cleaner.

The surface of the radiators is sanded down to metal. This work can be done manually with sandpaper, but cleaning with a sanding machine is faster and better.

The dust-free surface is degreased if it is planned to paint with alkyd compounds - gasoline or white spirit; when painting with acrylic - acetone.

Primer

Before priming, flaws and large irregularities are puttied. Use metal putty designed for high temperatures (from 80 °C) (epoxy, automotive). The dried layer is sanded, dusted and degreased.

The primer is selected in accordance with the paint. Some manufacturers allow the use of paint diluted with water or solvent (5% by volume) instead of primer. This point should be described in detail in the instructions for the paint.

Coloring

To properly paint a battery, you need flute brushes: medium width with a straight handle and narrow with a curved handle.

Attention! Instead of a flute with a curved handle, you can make a pad from a piece of foam rubber attached to a wire. It is easy to bend the wire at the desired angle, and it is easy to paint all hard-to-reach places.

The primed metal base practically does not absorb paint.

Therefore, to avoid drips, take a little paint onto the brush and carefully distribute it over the surface in a thin layer.

The spray paint can is held vertically at a distance of 30 cm from the surface, and the composition is applied in a zigzag motion.

The painting sequence is the back surfaces from top to bottom, then the top, sides and internal parts, and lastly the front side and bottom of the battery.

The second layer of paint is applied over the dried first layer.

Greetings, dear reader!

Many apartments still have cast iron radiators. This does not mean that “old”, “antiquity”, etc. and it is urgent to get rid of them. This is the simplest option. If you are not a supporter of primitive solutions and are ready to experiment, this article is for you.

Today I will try to convince you that you can make candy out of old things.

To do this, you just need to transform your heating devices and you can do it yourself. I’ll tell you how to paint radiators today. This is a difficult and time-consuming task, but it is worth it.

Before you decide to paint the batteries in your home yourself, remember that not all surfaces are suitable for this. Look around and find out what kind of radiators you have. If the radiators are cast iron or old style with many stacked fins - go ahead!

So, the hedgehog understands that before you start painting, you need to decide what to paint with. The final result of our work will depend on what we choose. If until recently only white was used, now the color range is very wide and varied. You can not only update the appearance of your battery, but also create a unique interior of the room.

Master of Architecture, graduated from Samara State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering. 11 years of experience in design and construction.

Painting heating appliances in an apartment will significantly improve their appearance and provide reliable protection against corrosion. However, the correct choice of paint, surface preparation and application method depend on factors such as:

• metal from which heating devices are made;
• presence and safety of factory paintwork;
• design of radiators;
• cost of paint and solvents;
• availability of manufacturer's warranty.

It should be noted that an excessively thick layer of paint can significantly reduce the heat transfer efficiency of painted batteries.

Features of the painting process

Manufacturers of heating devices consider painting them as a violation of the conditions for maintaining the warranty. Therefore, the presence of damage or peeling of factory paint during the warranty period is a manufacturing defect. In this case, instead of repairing it yourself, it is better to contact the seller to replace the defective batteries.

If the warranty period has already expired, and the surface of the radiators requires updating or restoration, then you should take into account the type of metal from which the devices are made. The fact is that aluminum, steel and bimetallic sectional batteries are painted at the factory with polymer paints, followed by heat treatment.

This coating is highly durable, but has very weak surface adhesion. It is almost impossible to paint such products at home without removing the factory paint, and cleaning the metal surface will require considerable effort.

The recommended option for restoring high-quality coatings on aluminum or bimetallic products is the use of epoxy primer and expensive enamels. However, this processing method requires significant financial costs and certain painting skills.

The easiest painting is for cast iron radiators like M-140 and steel convectors. In most cases, this equipment is only primed at the manufacturer and specially prepared for subsequent painting treatment. It is recommended to apply the paint 2 times to ensure a continuous coating to protect the device from corrosion.

Requirements for paints and varnishes

When deciding which paint is best to choose for radiators, it is necessary to determine the technical characteristics of the materials, which should provide:

• heat resistance of the coating is not lower than 80°C and resistance to color fading;
• resistance to mechanical abrasion;
• high thermal conductivity;
• moisture resistance;
• absence of toxic substances;
• quick drying.

The paint can be glossy or matte. When determining the required gloss of the coating, it is necessary to take into account that Even the smallest irregularities and defects are visible on the glossy surface.

For cast iron surfaces and complex convector designs, it is recommended to use matte compositions, and shiny paints are well suited for bimetallic and aluminum sections.

Types of paints used

To paint batteries, one of three types of paints and varnishes is most often used. This:

• acrylic paints for heating radiators;
• oil paints;
• alkyd compositions.

In addition, at home you can find the use of hammer enamels and “silver” made of aluminum powder. In factory production conditions, polymer and epoxy mixtures are used to protect the surface, followed by heat and air treatment.

Acrylic water-based compositions

Odorless paint for heating radiators is made on a binder base of PVA glue or polyacrylates. Since polyvinyl acetate glue is soluble in water, it is not recommended to use the first group of water-based paints for repairing batteries. The coating will have poor resistance to external influences and will require replacement within the first year of operation.

Acrylic enamels are an odorless paint for batteries that forms a thin, strong and durable layer on the surface. Typically the compositions are made white, which can be changed using water-based pigments. The dried layer of paint resembles matte plastic, which is easy to clean with water and does not crack under the influence of temperature.

Oily

Coatings based on drying oils and natural oils are considered traditional and have recently been used everywhere. They form a coating that is quite resistant to negative influences and is affordable for most owners of apartments and private houses. A large number of color shades allows you to solve design issues.

Among the disadvantages of oil paints, experts note:

• coating durability up to 5 years;
• presence of strong unpleasant odors during painting;
• long duration of complete drying;
• increased layer thickness, reducing thermal conductivity;
• drips may form.

When choosing oil paint, you need to pay attention to heat resistance indicators. Not all compositions of this type are designed for operation at elevated temperatures. Incorrect selection of paint can lead to a rapid change in color tone, cracking and peeling of the surface layer.

Enamels based on alkyd resins

In terms of their performance properties, alkyd coatings are superior to oil and acrylic compositions, but only if they are specially designed for painting heating radiators. Therefore, when purchasing, you must carefully study the instructions for use of the materials and only then choose the required shade.

The best heat-resistant alkyd paints are organic and silicone based. The addition of silicon increases the possible operating temperature and for some compositions it can exceed 400°C. They can be used for painting heated surfaces such as heating boilers, chimneys, furnaces, centralized heating pipes with superheated water.

The wide variety of solvents and modifiers used in the production of alkyd paints has provided the market with a large number of these polymer compositions.

When dry, these paints and varnishes release toxic substances. Therefore, when working, it is necessary to ensure the necessary ventilation of the room, and even better - to paint outside.

Aluminum powder

“Serebryanka” is one of the most affordable materials. To prepare it, you need to take bitumen varnish BT-577 and add aluminum powder. At the same time, an increase in the amount of powder reduces the mechanical stability of the coating and the maximum operating temperature.

Hammer

The peculiarity of such paints is the original color shade, imitating a heat-treated metal surface and high adhesion, guaranteeing the durability of the coating. The use of these materials eliminates the need for preliminary priming and reduces purchase costs. In terms of their composition, these paints and varnishes are practically no different from the described alkyd paints.

Aerosol packages

Selling paints in aerosol cans can be considered as an alternative to traditional methods of applying paints and varnishes to heating radiators. For their preparation, light solvents are used, which ensure the creation of a thin, quick-drying, even layer. During the painting process, do not bring the can too close to the surface to avoid drips.

When determining what paint to paint radiators with, pay attention to the inscriptions and containers printed on the packaging. Conscientious manufacturers will definitely indicate that this composition is intended for painting radiators and heating pipelines, as well as compliance with the State Standard.

The best paints and varnishes are made with the addition of titanium dioxide.

The presence of crushed chalk in the composition can cause a change in color shade as a result of constant temperature heating.

Thicker paints reduce material consumption when painting, while providing a continuous, even coating. That's why the mass or specific gravity of the composition is an important technical indicator, which you should pay attention to.

Choice depending on radiator material

Cast iron

The surface structure of cast iron batteries guarantees excellent adhesion to all types of paintwork materials. Therefore, when choosing a material, you should be guided only by data on heat resistance and external indicators of the coating.

Aluminum, steel and bimetal

Factory painting of such products involves powder coating followed by heat treatment. To improve the adhesion of the surface layer, you can use an epoxy primer or ensure that the section is cleaned as much as possible from the factory coating.

Powder coating.

Famous manufacturers

Among the most common brands offering paints and varnishes for heating radiators are:

• DUFA – Germany;
• TIKKURILA – Sweden;
• Radiator enamel TEX – Russia;
• SNIEZKA – Poland;
• BELINKA – Slovenia;
• LAKRA - Russia.

When choosing paint for several heating devices, it is recommended to buy products from one manufacturer and avoid mixing different varieties. Color changes can be achieved using special dyes added to the paint.

Required amount of paint

Almost every manufacturer of paints and varnishes indicates on the packaging the estimated paint consumption when applied to a flat, prepared surface. Thus, to calculate the required amount, you just need to get the area of ​​the surface to be painted before going to the store, and then correlate it with the information on the label. There is no universal flow rate value.

The amount of consumables will increase sharply in the absence of soil, dust and contamination. In addition, the use of a sprayer allows you to save paint and varnish compared to using a conventional paint brush.

During repairs, one of the tasks is to paint the batteries. In order for the result to please you later, the paint for heating radiators must be chosen correctly. It's not as easy as it seems - there are several pitfalls to be aware of.

The main thing is to choose the right paint for heating radiators

What paints are suitable for heating radiators

Our heating systems are unpredictable - the radiator can be cold, or it can heat up to high temperatures. And although most systems today operate at low temperatures, it is better to be on the safe side. Therefore, the paint for heating radiators must be heat-resistant - it must withstand heating up to 90°C. It should also be designed for painting metal.

There are universal compositions that meet these requirements, and there are special ones that say: “Paint for pipes and heating radiators.” If there is no large inscription, look for a similar line on the paint you like in the section where the area of ​​application is described. If there is nothing similar, it is better to look for another option.

What else you need to pay attention to is the presence of the manufacturer’s address and company name. There are many fakes on the market today. The label is very similar to some famous brand, but there is no address information. If this is the case, it’s better not to take risks - no one knows what’s in this jar.

Types and differences

In addition to the above requirements, it is desirable that the paint for heating radiators does not smell strongly, or better yet, is odorless. Another wish is the durability of the coating. The normal appearance of the surface should be maintained for several years. Well, for sure - the color should not change over time. Not many compositions meet all these requirements and wishes.

Alkyd enamel

Alkyd enamel forms a durable, shiny film on the painted surface. If the surface has been properly prepared (cleaned, degreased and primed), a double layer of alkyd enamel will last for at least 4 years. These paints are made on different bases, which is why they have different properties:

The form of release of this type of paint is buckets or metal cans of different capacities. Packing is usually from 0.5 kg to 3 kg in cans, in buckets up to 25 kg, then packaged in barrels. This paint is applied with a brush, roller, some types can be applied with a spray gun.

In the group of alkyd enamels there is a very interesting option - hammer. It contains special coloring pigments that create various visual effects. The surface they paint looks like it has been beaten with a hammer (hence the name). This texture perfectly hides the imperfections of the surface being painted. The resulting coating is very interesting.

If you need to paint old cast iron radiators or pipes with an imperfect surface, this is your chance to do without putty and sanding. It is not possible to find pure white in this group, but there are light tones, although not in such quantities as saturated ones - the surface looks more interesting if the color is bright or deep.

Acrylic enamel

These are water-based compositions with polyacrylates as a film-forming component. They have virtually no odor, and even that disappears in a matter of hours. They are usually called “odorless radiator paints.” Despite this, when working indoors, after work it is necessary to ventilate it - this is, after all, chemicals, so harmful fumes are present, although not on the same scale as in solvent-based enamels.

These paints are used for painting facades or interior walls; there are also acrylic paints for painting. Naturally, they are not suitable for painting radiators. Look for acrylic paint for metal, and with a temperature range of at least +70°C.

What makes them convenient is that they are diluted simply with ordinary water, but after drying they do not wash off or get wet. The created film is very similar to a plastic surface, remains elastic, does not crack, and washes well. It is usually semi-gloss or matte.

Acrylic paint for heating radiators can be sold packaged in buckets or paints; at authorized sales points you can order any color from the RAL palette. They are tinted using special pigments.

What is the disadvantage of these paints? Like all water-based compounds, it requires careful surface preparation. First, you need to remove all the rust, then treat the surface with a rust converter, degrease, if necessary, repair any unevenness, and then prime it. Only after this can radiators or heating pipes be painted. If this is not done, rust will very soon appear through the paint layer.

There are acrylic enamels that do not need a primer, but all other preparation must be carried out in full. For example, acrylic water-based primer-paint Aquametallic (cost per 1 kg is about 250-350 rubles, depending on packaging). It is suitable for painting cast iron and ferrous metal, not used for painting non-ferrous metals or galvanized surfaces.

A good option is acrylic enamel PROFI VD-AK-1179. This option is glossy, has good coverage and adhesion. A primer is required for this coating. In general, the range of these paints is wide, there are a lot of them in stores.

Powder coating

This type is perhaps the most durable and damage-resistant at the moment, but its application requires the creation of certain conditions. You need a special gun for spraying the powder, a low-voltage power source, and the ability to heat the surface to high temperatures.

The coloring composition of these paints is powder. They need to evenly cover the surface to be painted. To do this, the powder is given a positive charge, and the part being painted is given a negative charge (this is why a current source is needed). After this, the paint is heated, as a result of which the powder polymerizes (sinters), forming a durable film.

Powder paints are available with different polymerization temperatures - from +200°C to +350°C. As you understand, heating a cast iron battery to 200 degrees is not at all easy. This requires a camera. Therefore, this type of painting is practically never found at home. If you really want this particular paint for your heating radiators, you can contact a service station that specializes in painting cars. They do it using exactly this technology. You may be able to negotiate with them.

Oil paints

Most old batteries are painted with oil paints, but today it is completely unpopular - there are too many shortcomings. Firstly, the smell is very strong and does not disappear for a long time, and secondly, the paint cracks and, over time, changes color. With the availability of equally priced special paints for heating radiators, this choice becomes very rare. The only thing that is difficult is cleaning already painted old batteries, since the surface is usually cracked and applying another coating on top, even if it is compatible, does not make sense - it will still be ugly.

Spray paint

In recent years, many paints have appeared in aerosol packages - spray cans. There are such paints for heating radiators. The principle of choice here is similar: you need to pay attention to the temperature regime.

The process of applying such paint can be somewhat difficult without experience. In fact, everything is simple here: you need to spray from a distance of at least 20 cm from the surface to be painted, conduct the stream quickly, evenly, without stopping for a long time in one place.

Spray paint is applied in several passes. You may need two, three, or maybe more layers, depending on the complexity of the terrain. To obtain a uniform color, the direction of the jet movement changes. If in the first passage they moved from top to bottom and from bottom to top, then in the second - from right to left and back.

One more thing: cover the place where you will work with paper or newspapers, and cover a fairly large area. At first it is difficult to control movements.

Glossy or matte

When choosing paint for heating radiators, you need to choose what type of surface you want to get - matte or glossy. You need to choose based on the type of surface. The fact is that glossy paint emphasizes surface unevenness. Cast iron batteries are most often painted, but their surface is far from ideal. By covering it with a glossy composition, you will only emphasize its imperfection.

Matte compositions are better in this regard - they visually hide many irregularities. So this is a good option. But there is also a drawback: matte white paint quickly acquires a grayish tint. This happens due to the fact that dust and dirt get clogged into the pores, and they are wide in matte paint. This dirt is not washed out from there. The solution is a fresh coat of paint or painting in a color other than white. A smart choice is to match the paint to the color of the walls. From a design point of view, this is a better solution than white radiators.

There is another way out - to repair the unevenness of the radiator. This is done using metal putty, you can use automotive putty. First, old paint, rust and other contaminants are removed, then the surface is degreased and then all irregularities are sealed with putty. After it dries, use sandpaper with medium, then fine grain, and sand the surface until smooth. Then it is dusted, primed and painted. In this case, you can safely use glossy enamels for heating radiators. If the surface is leveled carefully, you will be pleased with the result.

Procedure for painting heating radiators

Just a few phrases about the most convenient order in which to paint heating radiators. To make work easier, paint the inner surface first. If you are right-handed, it is better to move from right to left, if left-handed - vice versa. This way there is less chance of getting dirty. Then the outer surface is painted in the same direction.

Apply the composition from above and rub it in up and down movements. Rub the paint thoroughly, without trying to immediately achieve a perfectly painted surface. After the first layer, slightly less colored areas are acceptable. This is much better than drips. They will close when applying the second layer, and drips will have to be cleaned off with sandpaper after they have completely dried.

How to paint a heating radiator? - Those who have old cast iron “accordions” worry about this question literally every 2-3 years. Sometimes people think about this when, during ongoing repairs, they suddenly discover that the color of the radiator does not fit into the color concept of the room at all. Every year the range of paint and varnish products on the shelves of construction stores increases and it becomes increasingly difficult to make the right choice. In this article you will find all the necessary information about what paint to paint radiators over old paint, how to do it, and whether this decision is always the right one.

• It is not advisable to paint modern aluminum and bimetallic batteries. Initially, they are painted at the factory with durable powder paint, which, thanks to the peculiarities of the technology, lies perfectly evenly. If you decide that the original color of the radiator (usually white) does not suit the interior of the room, and you want to repaint it, then you are unlikely to be able to achieve the same perfectly even coating. Even if you remove the battery and paint it horizontally. In addition, an additional layer of paint will reduce heat transfer, which is a significant disadvantage for regions with harsh winters.
• It is not advisable to paint plate radiators, especially those with a large surface area. They are installed in houses where there is a network with increased internal pressure. They have low convection but high heat transfer. As for our question, due to its design, it is difficult to properly paint a heating radiator of this type, especially with a brush. If this is really necessary, then you will have to remove it, clean it thoroughly (which is very difficult) and paint it in a horizontal position with a spray gun or car paint in the form of a spray. But even this way, you may not achieve a perfect application. There may be missing areas in hard-to-reach places, because the elements of the plate radiator are located too close to each other.

• Convectors and pipes with fins (especially with frequent aluminum fins) are not painted, since painting can negatively affect their heat transfer. The design of the convector, in addition to the heat source, includes a removable casing. It can be painted to enhance the overall look.
• It is recommended to paint cast iron batteries. This is not difficult to do, different paints are suitable and they do not affect the heat transfer. The choice of colors is huge.
• It is possible to paint steel panel radiators. But there is a nuance here - it will not work to evenly cover the surface of the battery with a brush. You will have to use car paint in a can, and it is advisable to paint in a horizontal position.

Important! In order to bring the battery as close as possible to the desired color and color scheme of the room, it is recommended to use decorative panels. They are sold in construction stores and online stores. They can be made of wood, metal, plywood, plastic and even glass. These screens come in different shapes, colors, and sizes. They can be covered with figured carvings, patterns, photo printing, etc. So the choice is great, and you can choose them for any, even the most sophisticated interior.

1. To paint a cast iron radiator, use straight and curved soft brushes, no more than 5 cm wide.
2. To paint a panel radiator, use a small-width foam roller.
3. Paint in cans or spray.
4. Paint bath (if the paint is not aerosol).
5. A special paint remover (if you decide to get rid of old paint chemically) and a metal spatula.
6. A drill with a metal brush attachment for cleaning the battery from paint residues.
7. Solvent.
8. Gloves, safety glasses, respirator or gauze bandage, protective clothing.
9. Newspapers, oilcloth, cardboard, masking tape to protect surfaces.
10. Rags.

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What paints are suitable for painting a radiator?

During the repair process, we think about how to paint the radiator without smell, without streaks and drips, so that the paint dries quickly and the beautiful appearance of the device is preserved for a long time. At the moment, there is no such ideal paint yet. However, there are several options to achieve optimal results.

The following may be suitable for painting a radiator:

• water-dispersion and water-based paints;
• alkyd enamel and auto enamel;
• acrylic paint;
• oil;
• silicone-aluminum paint;
• silverfish

Let's look at each option in more detail.

Oil paint

Regarding this type of paint, let’s immediately say that theoretically it is, of course, suitable. But in practice, it is almost never used for painting batteries:

• Its biggest disadvantage is that it takes a very long time to dry. This process can take up to a month; you must admit, it is not very convenient.
• In addition, oil paint has a rather unpleasant odor.
• It is difficult to paint the surface evenly, without drips and sagging.

Important! In view of such significant shortcomings, it is recommended to choose another option for these purposes.

Water-dispersion and water-based paints

Water-dispersion paint is made on the basis of polymers and water dispersion. Its main features:

• It is moisture resistant and can be washed.
• Diluted with water.
• Mainly available in white.

The water emulsion is made on a water basis, and it:

• Can have many colors and shades.
• Not so resistant to abrasion, it can slowly wash off upon contact with water.
• Can be diluted with solvents (eg white spirit).

Important advantages of this type of paint are:

• their environmental friendliness and safety;
• no chemical odors during application;
• ease and simplicity of painting;
• possibility of tinting;
• wide selection of application tools and affordable prices.

Important! The only negative is that before painting you must prime the surface, otherwise the water in the composition will cause rust.

Alkyd enamel and auto-enamel

Alkyd enamel is one of the best options for painting a heating radiator. It behaves well at high temperatures (withstands up to 100 degrees), with temperature changes, is resistant to abrasion and comes in many colors.

Regarding its capabilities:

• This type of paint is sold everywhere and is relatively inexpensive. This is the familiar PF-115 and its imported analogues (produced by the brands ACE, Dulux, Sigma Coatings and others).
• A significant disadvantage is the persistent chemical smell, which disappears for a long time after applying this paint to the battery.
• In addition, low-quality enamel may turn yellow over time.

Auto enamel also has a persistent unpleasant odor, so the room will then have to be ventilated for a long time. There are other application nuances if you need to paint a heating radiator:

• Applying paint from a can is quick and easy, but this, of course, requires skill so that the paint layer applies evenly.
• This application may leave unpainted areas, and it is also necessary to carefully protect all surfaces surrounding the radiator from splashes.
• Auto enamel has a glossy shine; it will highlight and highlight all surface irregularities.

Acrylic paint:

• Acrylic paint is also water-based.
• It has practically no smell and has an affordable price.
• The base base is white, but if this color doesn’t suit you, you can tint it in any other shade.
• The temperature limit of acrylic paint is +80 degrees - this is quite enough for average radiators.
• It dries quickly. It takes less than a day to apply 2 coats and have it all dry.
• It does not turn yellow over time, but also requires preliminary priming in order to avoid rust.
• After drying, acrylic paint forms a polymer coating that is wash-resistant.

Silicone-aluminum paint:

• It fits perfectly on any surface, forming a dense layer that contracts and expands with the metal.
• It can withstand temperatures up to 500 degrees, does not require preliminary priming, is easy to clean with any means and does not lose its visual appeal for a very long time.

Important! This paint is one of the most expensive. Another disadvantage is the pungent odor, which takes a long time to dissipate.

Serebryanka

Known since Soviet times. Its modern analogues are on the shelves of hardware stores. For example, heat-resistant paint BT-177.

How is it different:

• It consists of varnish mixed with aluminum powder.
• Silver grass is inexpensive, but also has an unpleasant odor.

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Color selection:

• If you just want to update the appearance of the radiator without significant costs, then paint it white. White and silver are classics of the genre.
• If you want the radiators not to be conspicuous and to fit into the decor, you can paint them to match the walls.
• In a children's room, the radiator can be made part of a cheerful interior - cover it with bright paint or even make the sections multi-colored. You can apply patterns to the batteries with a brush by hand or using a stencil. It is possible to decorate the radiator using decoupage.

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You already know what paint to paint radiators with, now let’s get down to the process itself. It can be divided into two stages:

• preparation (cleaning off old paint);
• applying paint.

Cleaning

Ideally, for proper cleaning, the radiator needs to be disconnected and the remaining water drained, since getting from the back side will be difficult. We will skip how to clean the battery from dust and dirt; everyone can handle this without additional advice. But there are several ways to clean old paint.

Method No. 1

The simplest and least labor-intensive method is to use a special remover. This chemical is sold in all hardware stores. But it is suitable for processing only cast iron radiators, since cast iron is inert to this substance.

Procedure:

Method No. 2

The second cleaning method is carried out using a hair dryer or a gas burner.

Important! This method is not suitable for cast iron, as the process will take a long time and will be ineffective.

Procedure:

1. The essence of the method is to use a device to heat a layer of paint to high temperatures, and then scrape it off with a spatula or a stiff brush without waiting for it to cool.
2. It is advisable to carry out such work outdoors, so, of course, the battery must first be removed. If this is not possible, protect the surrounding surfaces with plywood and open the windows.

Important! This method can damage the gaskets in the radiator, so be prepared for the fact that they will have to be replaced with new ones.

Method No. 3

Another thermal method is to treat the battery using a fire. The old “old-fashioned” method is labor-intensive, but allows you to clean the battery not only outside, but also inside.

Procedure:

1. Remove the radiator, unscrew all plugs and other parts.
2. Disassemble the battery into sections using a radiator wrench (the sections are connected by nipples with oppositely directed threads).

Important! If this does not work out right away, then you can do it after firing.

1. Make a good fire in the yard and put a radiator in it. Keep the fire going for about an hour, longer if possible.
2. After removing the battery from the fire, clean it with a wire brush; this process will be easy and quick.
3. After this, tap each section with a mallet to shake out all the rust that has accumulated over the years from the internal channels.
4. Now all that remains is to reassemble everything using new rubber gaskets.

Important! Gaskets can be cut from an unnecessary car inner tube.

1. Wipe the radiator from dirt and degrease.

Method No. 4

You can also use the mechanical method:

1. Place an attachment on the drill (grinder) - a metal brush or an emery wheel.
2. Treat the surface of the radiator.

Important! The disadvantage of this method is that many places are difficult to reach with a tool, so the work will have to be completed manually, using a stiff brush and sandpaper.

1. As in previous methods, the surface should then be cleaned of debris and degreased.

Painting

When asked whether it is possible to paint heating radiators while they are hot, experts answer in the negative, because most paints will not adhere well to a hot radiator. It is better to paint outside of the heating season. If there is no way out, then paint quickly, without putting a lot of paint on the brush and immediately blending it in a thin layer. Or turn off the supply of boiling water to the radiator and wait until it cools down, then paint.

Important! During the painting process, remember to protect your eyes, hands and respiratory system from paint splashes and toxic odors.

After cleaning and degreasing, we proceed to the most important thing - painting. The procedure will depend on the type of dye chosen.

Acrylic and water emulsion

If your choice falls on acrylic or water-based paint, the radiator should be primed with an anti-corrosion compound, otherwise rust will appear over time.

Important! There are paints on sale that already have primer added to them.

Paint from a can

If you paint the battery with spray paint, then the technology is as follows:

1. Start with hard-to-reach areas and then move to the front.
2. Move from top to bottom in a zigzag motion, without stopping in one place, otherwise the layer will lie unevenly.
3. It is recommended to cover the surface with two layers, so after the first has dried, proceed to the second.

Important! You can take the radiator to a service station for painting, where specialists will do it professionally.

Using a spray gun

Painting with a spray gun occurs in the same way as in the case of aerosol paint.

Important! To reach all areas, it is better to paint the battery while it is removed.

Liquid solutions

If you paint with liquid paints, then protect the surrounding surfaces with oilcloth and newspapers:

1. Pour paint into a paint tray and use an angled brush to cover all interior and hard-to-reach surfaces first.
2. After this, use a straight brush to begin working on the front part, moving from top to bottom.

Important! Take a little paint on the brush, the layer should be thin, otherwise drips will form.

1. After the first layer has dried, cover with the second. Two layers are usually sufficient.

Important! Acrylic paint and water-based emulsion dry quickly and without much odor, so you can finish it in a few hours without any problems. But alkyd enamel will dry for more than a day and emit an unpleasant odor for a long time, so we recommend painting the radiator in the summer, when it is possible to open the windows for a long time.

That's all the wisdom regarding the choice of paint for a heating device and the process of applying the dye itself. Using the useful information from the article, you can do everything correctly and with minimal losses. You can be sure that by successfully updating the old battery, the interior of the room will improve.

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What kind of paint should be used for batteries?

A feature of any battery is that during operation it always heats up to a high temperature. Of course, the degree of heating depends on the temperature of the coolant and other additional factors. Regardless of whether, along with cast iron, steel or non-ferrous metal, the paint that is planned to be applied to the heating device will also heat up.

And so that the paint for heating radiators does not “please” with an unpleasant odor, harmful substances released into the air, as well as loss of its solidity, it must:

• withstand high temperatures;
• do not contain toxic substances;
• do not emit an unpleasant odor when heated;
• be resistant to aggressive environments and abrasion.

Types of dyes for batteries

Many types of paints, or rather individual representatives of these types, meet the above requirements. After all, most paints are designed for temperatures below +80 ° C. Therefore, manufacturers produce special modifications of their products.

In general, painting batteries yourself can be done with the following types of paints:

1. Acrylic enamels. They are based primarily on organic solvents. This feature causes the release of a solvent odor during the application of the acrylic mixture to the battery. However, once it dries, the smell becomes history and the room is left with a radiator with a nice glossy shine. This shine lasts for many years.
2. Alkyd enamels. They are known for their excellent resistance to wear and high temperatures. The range of colors of these enamels is very large, so many people choose such paints. These paint solutions also emit an unpleasant odor as they dry. It can also be felt in cases where the heating radiator gets very hot.
3. Water-dispersion paint. Many experts note that such paint for radiators is optimal. This is because it does not upset the nose with a specific smell, and the drying time is very short. True, not every water-based mixture is suitable for batteries. Only those that have the appropriate designation on the packaging are suitable. Its color can be any.
4. Oil paints. They were very popular in the past. Known for emitting a solvent odor upon drying and long curing times.

It is worth adding that radiator paint may contain elements that resist corrosion and improve adhesion (they are constantly used in primers). Such mixtures have different colors and do not require primers or cleaning the radiator from corrosion.

At least that's what the manufacturers note. In practice, it is better to remove rust from the heating device and use a primer. The processes are lengthy, however, the results are reliable. This is often noted in various videos.

Applying paint to a heating device

This process appears to be quite simple, but it requires proper execution. Painting radiators includes the following steps:

1. Removing old paint.
2. Removing corrosion.
3. Treatment with degreaser.
4. Applying primer.
5. Do-it-yourself application of several layers of dye of a certain color.

The first four points are preparatory.

Features of preparation

There are two ways to remove a layer of old paint:

1. Mechanical.
2. Chemical.

The first involves using a spatula or round metal brush attached to an electric drill. Using a spatula requires physical effort as you need to move it with your hands. Moreover, it will take quite a long time to wash off the paint. This must be taken into account when calculating the total painting time. The disadvantage of this option is that it is difficult to reach the bottom of thin cracks.

A round metal brush attached to an electric drill is a more versatile method. It is capable of treating almost the entire radiator area, including many hard-to-reach places. In this case, the work time and physical effort spent will be very small. Most people like this, including those who calculate the repair time and shoot a video of the process.

The chemical method involves the use of special solvents or fatty acids. They treat the entire area of ​​the battery and cover the treated surface with film. Then they rest. The duration of rest is indicated on the packaging. It may be different. During this time the paint becomes soft. Of course, it does not slip (which would be very good), but its removal with a spatula, a grinder or a wire brush becomes very easy.

It is worth remembering that solvents emit substances harmful to the body. Therefore, when using a chemical method, you need to protect your hands with construction gloves, your respiratory tract with a gauze bandage, or even better, a respirator.

The surface of the radiator, cleared of paint, is treated with sandpaper. They work especially carefully in places where there is corrosion. It needs to be completely removed. Only a pure metallic sheen should remain.

For degreasing, use white spirit or any other alkaline solution.

The radiator is primed with a solution that meets the following requirements:

• is a product of the same manufacturer that produced the paint. In this case, the primer and paint work best together;
• contains substances that can resist corrosion.

Features of paint application

Before painting, the heating radiator must be cooled. This is because most paints are designed to be applied to a cold surface. If they are applied to hot metal, they will dry quickly. And this will not allow you to apply an even layer and correct smudges, stains and stains in a timely manner. In any case, when working on hot batteries, there is very little time for applying paint. In this case, the mistake made may remain uncorrected. This is often noted in various videos.

True, there are some exceptions. So, people who ask the question whether it is possible to paint hot batteries should pay attention to paints specially designed for this purpose. They are able to dry on heated metal very slowly. However, such paints are quite expensive, and the final result of calculating a small repair will be a considerable amount. Therefore, before painting the heating radiator in winter, it is better to turn it off and wait for it to cool. It is best to change the color of the heating device in the summer season. Then it is convenient to ventilate the room and the radiators are cold.

If you have to paint a cast iron heater with ordinary paints during the heating season, then you need to apply a very thin layer of paint. Apply two such layers.

The application of a color mixture of a certain color occurs in the following sequence:

1. Place oilcloth or old pieces of newspaper under the radiator.
2. Applying paint to the top of the product. Then they gradually go down. Thanks to this, such a problem as smudges is eliminated. First, the color mixture is applied to the internal parts of the device, and then to the external parts. The entire surface needs to be painted.
3. Drying of the first layer of paint.
4. Apply the second layer in the same way as the first.

The battery is coated with paint using various tools, namely:

1. Brush.
2. Spray gun.
3. Spray can.

If you plan to use a brush, then you should take several options. The first should have soft, straight bristles. The other has curved stubble. Thanks to the second, you can work with your own hands in those places to which access is limited.

If painting with a spray gun, it is better to remove the battery. This way, excess paint will not get on the walls. In addition, there is a great opportunity to paint the most inaccessible places. Spray painting is very quick. In this case, you need to perform zigzag movements. They move from top to bottom. The distance from the surface to be treated to the can should be 30 cm.

How to paint a heating radiator: recommendations and photos

It’s worth clarifying right away that painting heating radiators is not possible in all cases. First of all, it is advisable to perform this operation for cast iron radiators, a thick and uneven layer of paint on which not only spoils the exterior of the battery, but also greatly impairs the quality of heat transfer. The second type of batteries that can and should be painted are convectors, made in the form of a bent riser pipe with fins pressed onto it.

Painting cast iron radiators

If you own modern models of radiators with aluminum sections, then it is better to abandon the idea of ​​painting. Of course, you can paint it, but you will have to apply many layers of paint, and you are unlikely to achieve the expected effect. The fact is that the battery is painted with a brush, and this method is by definition worse than the factory one, so it is better to leave new battery models alone and, if necessary, cover it with a decorative screen.

How to paint a heating radiator: choosing paint and tools

Brushes for painting radiators

Before you begin the main stage of work, you need to prepare. First, let's prepare soft brushes, which should be small in size and of two types - straight and curved. The straight brush is intended for painting external, easily accessible areas, and the curved brush is for painting the rear and internal surfaces of the radiator.

Anza flat brush for painting heating radiators

Which paint to choose

The main role in this work is played by paint for radiators, which can be of the following types:

• water-dispersed;
• alkyd;
• acrylic;
• oil

Any paint for heating radiators must be resistant to abrasion, withstand high temperatures (up to 100 degrees) and not release toxic compounds when heated. According to these parameters, the above options differ significantly from each other. For example, water-dispersion paints do not have an unpleasant odor and dry quickly, but this type of coating is less resistant to abrasion than others, meaning it will have to be renewed more often.

Special alkyd enamel VD-AK-1179 for radiators

Acrylic paint contains a chemical solvent, so when used, an unpleasant odor is released, which takes a long time to ventilate from the room. The advantages of this coating are high abrasion resistance and an attractive glossy appearance.

Alkyd paint for radiators also has an unpleasant odor, but is in high consumer demand due to its high abrasion resistance and a huge range of shades. In addition, the smell from modern building materials is not so strong.

As for oil paint, it is being used less and less as a coating for radiators and pipes. The reason for this is the unpleasant odor, long drying time and difficulty in applying an even layer.

How to paint radiators is up to you, but it is best to use alkyd paints from well-known manufacturers. You just need to choose the appropriate coating color.

What paint to paint radiators video

How to paint radiators: preparatory stage

So, the materials have been selected. Now you can move on to the preparatory stage. Old cast iron radiators may have chipped paint and many layers on top of them, so you need to completely clean the radiator from the old paint to the metal. This operation can be performed using a hair dryer, which melts the old paint with a stream of hot air, after which it can be removed using a spatula.

Cleaning pipes and batteries with a grinder with a special nozzle

If you don’t have a hairdryer at hand, you can use an alternative option - a washing solution. This solution is applied to the entire surface of the radiator, after which the heating device is covered with a film. After the washing solution has been in action for an hour, the paint can be removed using a spatula.

The main layer of paint has been removed, now we clean the battery from its remnants using fine sandpaper or a special wire attachment for a screwdriver. Then degrease the surface of the radiator using a rag soaked in a special solution, such as white spirit. The final stage is to coat the radiator with an anti-corrosion primer; it will protect the radiator from corrosion, but will also improve the adhesion of the paint to the surface.

Removing old paint from a cast iron radiator: video instructions

Painting a radiator: basic rules

It’s worth clarifying right away that painting the batteries should be done with the heating turned off. This limitation is due to the fact that paint dries very quickly on a hot surface, which can lead to an uneven coating layer and the formation of smudges.

How to paint a radiator after stripping

Before painting the heating radiator, place an oilcloth or rag under it, which will protect the floors from paint getting on the floor. Start painting the radiator from hard-to-reach parts with a curved brush, and cover the front side with paint at the last moment. This approach will allow you not to smear the newly applied layer of paint, and your hands will remain clean.

Painting aluminum radiators with a spray can

In order for the radiator paint to lay flat, it must be applied in two thin layers. To apply the second layer, you need to wait until the first one has completely dried.

How to paint a battery video instructions

Possible problems when painting

When implementing each stage of work, unexpected difficulties may arise - the paint does not apply evenly or the old coating is not removed. In order not to spoil the materials, you can pause work, wait for complete drying and start again by cleaning and degreasing the surface.

You can find out what paint to paint heating radiators from consultants in a specialized store; they will help you decide on a specific brand that is most popular among customers.

To avoid additional difficulties, pay attention to the video instructions, where experts will help you study the painting algorithm in detail and follow the detailed steps.

Bottom line

Painting radiators plays an important role, since this heating element attracts attention and is a subject of interior design and design. Using the above tips, you can ensure that an old cast-iron battery after treatment will look no worse than a new one, and the coating will last for many years.

vsadu.ru

Choosing odorless paint for radiators

The choice of paint and varnish coating for a heating system is a fairly pressing and undoubtedly important issue. The paint must meet the objectives: withstand high temperatures, maintain gloss for a long time and not peel off. But this is its functional and aesthetic load. But the question of what odorless paint for radiators and how to paint them sometimes remains open. An educational excursion into the world of paints and varnishes will help you figure it out.

Which one is better to choose?

The choice of paint for the heating system of an apartment or house is closely related to the material from which the batteries are made. Each type has certain properties that are friendly to the paintwork or conflict with it. The main types of materials used for the production of radiators:

• cast iron;
• bimetal;
• steel;
• aluminum.

For painting heating radiators, the manufacturer market offers a wide range of types and a rich palette of coatings:

№	Types of paints and varnishes	Kinds paintable radiators	Advantages	Flaws	Firm- manufacturer
1	Oil paint	Cast iron	Wide color palette	It takes a long time to dry, has a persistent odor, quickly fades, cracks, and loses its shine.	"Tikkurila" etc.
2	Serebryanka	Cast iron	Excellent high temperature resistance	Persistent odor	“Lakra”, “Gloss”, etc.
3	Silicate paint	Cast iron	Designed for high temperatures	Long lasting odor	“Nevbytkhim”, “Ceresit”, etc.
4	Powder paint	Any kind	Durability, resistance to damage and high temperatures	Coloring in professional cameras	"Triton", "Ral", etc.
5	Alkyd enamel based on organic solvents	Cast iron, steel, bimetal	Wide range of applications	Characteristic odor, color varies by pigment	“Olecolor”, “Enamel”, “Tex”, etc.
6	Water-based alkyd enamel	Any kind	Barely noticeable odor, no loss of color	The high-temperature paints of this series contain titanium white, which is not cheap	“Tex”, “Lakra”, “Enamel”, etc.
7	Alkyd hammer enamel	Cast iron, steel, bimetal	Hides imperfections of the painted coating	There is a slight odor that disappears after drying	“Olecolor”, “Tex”, “Enamel”, etc.
8	Acrylic enamel	Cast iron, steel, bimetal	Almost no smell, dries quickly, wide range of colors, durability	It is necessary to carefully prepare the surface to be painted: sand, prime	“Lakra”, “Rainbow”, “Tex”, etc.
9	Spray paint	Any kind	Wide range of colors, ease of dyeing process	Strong smell	"Kudo", "Decorix", "Newton", etc.

Is it possible to paint hot?

Experts have different opinions on the issue of painting radiators: some argue that they need to be painted to protect them from corrosion. Others counter that applying one or another type of enamel to radiators does not perform any protective function and is purely aesthetic in nature. Another thing is painting pipes in winter, when the radiators are hot.

Paints and varnishes suitable for heating systems and withstanding high temperatures require painting over cold radiators. If radiators are coated with enamel on a hot surface, the paint will dry out “on the fly” and the quality of painting will get out of control: sagging and unsightly spots will appear.

It would not be amiss to remind you that when applied to a hot radiator, the smell of paint will intensify, and opening windows in winter for ventilation is problematic due to the cold.

Important! Consumers most often choose white color for batteries, but experts say that the dark color of radiators contributes to better heat transfer.

Painting process

Before you begin the paint application stage, you need to stock up on the necessary equipment:

• radiator brush (curved, with a long handle);
• regular brush (100 mm wide);
• rubber or silicone gloves;
• respirator (if the paintwork is odorous);
• newspaper (to protect the floor from paint stains);
• sanding sheet No. 2 (if necessary, cleaning batteries from uneven surfaces);
• rag;
• primer;
• dye;
• white spirit (for unexpected contact of paint with the skin).

Sometimes, the preparatory work takes longer than the painting process itself. This is not surprising, because the radiator has a lot of hard-to-reach parts that need to be washed, and in some places peel off the peeling paint and sand it.

Important! If you want to remove the old coating completely, you can use a special remover.

1. Prime the prepared surface.
2. In order to avoid drips, painting begins from the top of the heating system.
3. The internal parts of the batteries are also covered first.
4. Layers of paint are applied evenly in a thin layer.
5. As the paint and varnish material dries, the radiators are repainted.

Radiator painting steps

Technology of painting over old paint

The condition of the paint on the heating system may vary:

1. The coating, although old and faded, has a monolithic adhesion to the base. It is enough to just lightly sand the surface with sandpaper for reliable adhesion of the next layer of paint.
2. The old coating has worn out in places, peeled off, and metal is visible in places. Here, more thorough grinding of the surface will be required so that chips and irregularities are not visible under the new layer.
3. The paintwork is crusty, peeling off in large areas, and rust appears in places. Such paint must be mercilessly removed with a wire brush or special removers. The prepared surface is primed before applying the first layer of paintwork.

Important! You can simply renew the old paint: apply a fancy pattern to it, after sanding it for better adhesion.

In cans

For the convenience of consumers, paint and varnish manufacturers produce aerosol coatings for radiators. It has excellent properties:

• withstands high temperatures;
• easy and quick to apply;
• dries almost instantly;
• has a pronounced gloss;
• fits perfectly on any surface.

The only negative is the strong smell, but it will disappear in just an hour.

Balloon paint is sprayed onto the surface to be painted from a distance of 30 cm. Movements should be smooth, but fast, zigzag. Depending on the quality of the surface of the heating battery, painting in several layers may be required.

Important! When working with aerosol enamel, it is necessary to cover a large area around the radiator with newspapers, because The skill in painting with spray paint will not come right away.

Having the necessary information about heating radiator coatings, you can get useful advice and learn the features of technologies for using paint and varnish products.