Recommendations for choosing paint for radiators

Selecting the appropriate paint is essential when painting radiators. The correct paint can prevent rust and wear on your radiators while also improving the look of your house. But not every paint can withstand the high temperatures that radiators can reach. Your radiators’ lifespan and appearance can be greatly improved by knowing what to look for.

First and foremost, choosing a paint that resists heat is crucial. When regular wall paint is exposed to the heat generated by radiators, it may peel or become discolored. High temperatures are not going to affect the color or finish of specialized radiator paints. In order to withstand the heat, these paints are typically oil-based or made with particular additives.

Next, think about the paint’s finish. Radiators with glossy finishes are more common because they are typically more durable and easier to clean. Nonetheless, some people like a matte finish for a more somber appearance. Whichever paint you select, make sure it is labeled specifically for radiator use.

The color is another thing to consider. Radiators are most commonly white, but you may want to match the color of your radiator to the rest of your décor. Just make sure the paint you select has the necessary durability and heat resistance.

For a smooth, durable finish, the radiator surface must be properly prepped before painting. Sand down any rough spots on the radiator and give it a thorough cleaning. Using a primer made specifically for metal surfaces can also improve paint adhesion and result in a more uniform finish.

You can make sure your radiators not only look fantastic but also stay safe and functional for many years to come by adhering to these recommendations. Long-term benefits include a polished and well-kept appearance for your house from taking the time to select the ideal paint and prepare the surface.

What paints are suitable for batteries?

You must be aware of the selection criteria in order to choose the appropriate paint to paint radiators. Operating conditions and application technology control them. Paint and varnish materials therefore need to be:

• heat resistant. Heating radiators can heat up to +80 o C and above. Accordingly, paintwork materials must withstand the same temperature conditions: retain their original shade (they may turn yellow), not peel off or crack;
• with a high level of thermal conductivity. To maintain the heat transfer of the heating system, the paint layer on the batteries must allow heat to pass through well. Otherwise, in severe frosts, the room will not warm up to a comfortable temperature – additional heat sources will be required;
• resistant to mechanical stress — in the event of an accidental impact with a heavy toy, chair leg or other object, the paint layer must maintain its integrity;
• quick drying. When applying several layers, it is important that they dry quickly (when painting hot batteries, this requirement is not relevant);
• moisture resistant. One of the functions of painting is to protect the metal from moisture to prevent corrosion processes;
• without smell. The requirement is not so much for the time of painting (the room can be ventilated), but for the period of operation. In winter it is difficult to get rid of unpleasant “odors”;
• safe — during drying of the applied paint layer and heating of radiators, no harmful substances should be released.

Furthermore, paint materials need to adhere strongly to the surface to be painted, lie evenly on the metal, and retain their original shade for the duration of their use. For instance, wood paint is totally inappropriate for use with heating systems.

Types of paints

There are many domestic and foreign manufacturers of paints for heating radiators with various solvents and bases on the paint and varnish market. This indicates that the technical and operational indicators of the coatings available for purchase differ. An average consumer finds them difficult to understand. As a result, we will outline the key traits of the most common varieties.

Acrylic

Acrylic paint is a synthetic polymer used in the manufacturing of paint for heating radiators. It can mix with coloring pigments due to its chemical makeup. The mixture preserves the color obtained after mixing with dyes, forming a dense waterproof film after the solvent dries. To achieve liquid consistency, use:

• solvent, gasoline, white spirit – evaporate very quickly, due to which the drying process of the enamel layer does not exceed 2 hours;
• kerosene – evaporates at an average speed;
• turpentine – the drying process takes the longest;
• water. This is a classic water emulsion. About her below, t.To. technical and operational characteristics are very different from paints based on organic solvents.

When the acrylic enamel dries, it leaves behind a film that feels and looks like plastic.

• can be applied to hot batteries;
• adheres well to the surface to be painted;
• has good thermal stability – can withstand temperatures of more than +80 o C (some types up to +120 o C);
• creates a water- and vapor-proof film, perfectly protecting batteries from corrosion;
• minimum consumption;
• sufficient mechanical strength to withstand fairly strong impacts;
• elastic structure, due to which it practically does not form streaks;
• does not turn yellow over time;
• easy to clean;
• tinted well;
• acceptable price.

• some solvents smell unpleasant during painting;
• low abrasion resistance;
• requires mandatory priming of the surface with a primer for metal, in two layers.

Acrylic enamels come in a variety of varieties. You can always make a decision based on your needs.

Alkyd enamels

Alkyd paint’s ingredients include:

• alkyd varnish (glyphthalic or pentaphthalic);
• microfillers (granite, quartz sand or marble);
• pigment dispersions;
• film formers;
• solvents. Can be water (water-based enamels), white spirit and other organic solvents.

Alkyd enamels with an organic thinner base have advantages and disadvantages.

• can be applied to batteries during the heating season;
• high level of adhesion to metal radiators;
• can withstand temperatures up to +100 o C;
• have good elasticity, due to which the dried surface has a uniform structure;
• resistant to mechanical stress, including abrasion;
• do not allow water and steam to pass through;
• minimal consumption;
• affordable price for the majority of the population;
• withstand ultraviolet irradiation – do not fade in the sun;
• maintain color stability throughout the entire service life.

• give a glossy surface, which is not the best option when painting cast iron radiators;
• have a specific pungent odor – ventilation is necessary during operation and for several days after drying.

Thermoenamel, which is based on organosilicon compounds, is another paint in the same class. They have the maximum heat resistance of any material; they can tolerate temperatures as high as +600 o C. Batteries should not be used with them; the manufacturer forbids painting indoors because of the fumes that are harmful to human health.

Oil paint

When painting heating radiators, oil paint was the only option available a few decades ago. It is incredibly infrequently used now. It’s all about how much worse she is than better.

• withstands the operating temperature of the heating system;
• batteries can be painted while hot;
• a large selection of colors, which is irrelevant for a central heating system;
• applied in an even layer;
• has good adhesion to any metal;
• increased level of strength;
• moisture resistance;
• refers to the budget type of paintwork materials.

• forms a thick layer of coating on radiators, reducing heat transfer;
• when painting, drips actively form;
• service life is 5-7 years, after which it begins to crack;
• turns yellow over time;
• poorly protects metal from corrosion;
• it is difficult to remove the old layer for the next painting;
• dries in 2-3 days;
• smells bad for a long time. At the same time it does not weather well.

Water emulsion

Customers are aware that water-based paint can also be used to paint batteries. but solely made of acrylic. Some film-forming materials do not permit the creation of a long-lasting coating because of their technical limitations. There are numerous benefits to this kind of painting. The primary one is paint for heating radiators that has no smell. Additional advantages are as follows:

• possibility of painting the heating system while hot;
• environmentally friendly – the paint is safe both during application and during operation;
• thermal stability – withstands temperatures up to +90 o C;
• water-repellent effect;
• reasonable price;
• high drying speed – 30 minutes is enough for one layer. For two layers – four hours.

• tendency to form streaks;
• rather low resistance to mechanical stress;
• the need to carry out a full cycle of preparatory work;
• gets dirty quickly, turning gray.

Hammer enamel

The painted surface of hammer enamel has a texture akin to being pounded with a hammer, hence the name. Today, additional intriguing effects can be achieved, like coinage, with the help of different additives. Many of the drawbacks of cast iron batteries can be hidden by the uneven decorative surface.

Hammer enamel’s composition is comparable to that of alkyd paints, which are thought to be one kind of them. Fine glass and aluminum flakes are two additives that create an unusual decorative effect. There are variations in benefits in addition to variations in texture. Without the need for a primer—just clear away the dust—hammer enamel can be applied to rust, streamlining the prep process and saving the family money because removers and primer don’t need to be purchased. It also dries quickly—two hours is plenty of time.

After completing the entire painting preparation cycle (sanding, priming, and removing the previous coat of paint), the enamel eats into the metal to such an extent that subsequent removal becomes very challenging (you have to use the remover multiple times).

"Serebryanka"

You can use heat-resistant varnish containing aluminum powder to give batteries and pipes a distinctive silver hue. Simultaneously, you can make your own or purchase it already made under the brand name "Serebryanka."

In order to make enamel at home, you must combine aluminum powder PAP-1 with bitumen varnish BT-577. The composition has a few advantages and very few drawbacks, depending on the component proportions.

• heat resistance reaches +300-400 o C;
• service life – 10 years or more;
• good resistance to various types of external influences, including moisture;
• not subject to corrosion;
• retains the original color throughout the entire period of operation;
• easy to clean;
• dries quickly;
• has good adhesion to metal;
• price affordable for most consumers.

• incompatible with many types of paintwork materials, which requires complete cleaning of the battery surface from the old paint layer;
• can only be applied to a fully prepared surface (you can see how to do this here);
• it can smell for a long time, but it is unpleasant;
• cannot always be found on sale (the solution is to make it yourself).

Silicate compounds

Liquid glass serves as the basis for silicate coating production. includes powdered metal pigments and ethyl silicate as well. Paints can be: depending on the kind of binder (film-forming) material

• polyorganosiloxane, better known as organosilicon;
• dispersive silicate – one-component, ready-to-use;
• silicate-silicone – two-component enamels that require mixing before painting.

• the highest level of fire resistance;
• unsurpassed strength.

• toxicity;
• high price.

Powder paint

Powder coating is used on steel, aluminium, and bimetallic batteries. but only under factory settings. Replicating the technology at home is very hard. However, given the advancement of technology, this won’t probably be an issue in the near future.

Using a paint gun (which can be rented for $60 per day), colored powder is applied to the surface to be painted. A positive charge is applied to the coloring pigment in order for it to lay on the metal in an even layer; the batteries (the area that needs to be painted) receive a negative charge (a voltage of 25–30 kW and a current of several mA are required).

For information, it doesn’t matter where the charge is when painting in a factory. Batteries can be grounded at home. It is therefore not possible to use a positive charge on them.

The powder polymerizes to finish the painting process. There are two methods you can do this:

• heat to a certain temperature (from +200°C to +350°C);
• irradiate with ultraviolet light.

Using an ultraviolet lamp makes it simpler. However, we require substances that sinter when exposed to UV light. And it’s still challenging to locate them for sale.

Silicone paint

When it comes to technical and operational indicators, silicone-based paint is among the best for painting radiators. However, many buyers are put off by the high price.

Silicone-aluminum enamel

Excellent outcomes are obtained when silicone resin and aluminum are combined to produce paint:

• the painted surface can withstand temperatures up to +500 o C;
• service life more than 5 years;
• high level of elasticity during expansion and contraction makes the enamel practically invulnerable.

• high price;
• unpleasant odor that does not disappear for a long time.

Recommendations for selection

Prior to buying paint for radiators, you must determine what the basic needs are. Many of them. It is up to the consumer to determine what matters and what can be disregarded. We’ll let them know (as previously mentioned).

Resistance to heat. In rare circumstances, if the boiler room automation fails, heating radiators can reach temperatures of up to +100 o C. As a result, the paint layer needs to resist this heat in order to keep its color and avoid cracking when it starts to peel. As a result, enamels are required for heating radiators. The packaging should have a similar statement. Purchase nothing if it isn’t there.

The potential for painting heated batteries. Cosmetic repairs are typically completed in the winter months. As a result, you must be aware of the paint application conditions. The criterion can be disregarded if the heating system is painted during the warm season.

Drying rate. Working with fast paint drying times is always convenient. This indicator is particularly crucial when painting in multiple coats. As a result, it is essential to check the enamel’s drying time on the package.

Qualities that resist corrosion. The batteries’ metal is consistently shielded from the onset of rust by the high humidity levels.

Absence of caustic odor. should not smell during the heating process as well as when painting. Ventilation will help you survive the caustic smell that arises during cosmetic repairs, but it is nearly impossible to get rid of when the heating batteries are operating.

High power. Freshly painted surfaces shouldn’t peel off when exposed to sudden temperature changes or mechanical stress.

Resilience. For as long as possible, the painted surface must retain its original color and gloss. That works out to be at least five years.

Pristine surroundings. There shouldn’t be any harmful elements in the color composition. They have the potential to poison the owners of the apartment or house when they are heated and released into the air.

The ability to conduct heat. Paint layers retain heat, which lowers the heating system’s heat output. The figures that heating engineers discuss range from 1% to 20%. Consequently, purchasing paint with a high heat transfer rate is crucial.

Let’s take a closer look at two more crucial requirements.

Glossy or matte paints – which to prefer?

There are certain subtleties to take into account when selecting between glossy and matte paints.

1. The slightest irregularities are visible on the glossy surface of the paint. Therefore, it is not recommended to paint cast iron batteries with their numerous tubercles, drips, pits and gouges with such paintwork materials. You can, of course, try to level the surface of the sections using automotive putty. But it is labor-intensive and time-consuming.
2. White matte paint is also not suitable for cast iron – it turns gray due to dirt, which quickly accumulates in the recesses. The output of a matte coloring agent that will hide all the shortcomings of radiators.
3. Aluminum, steel and bimetallic surfaces look great in gloss. But matte enamels also give the heating system an attractive appearance.

The choice of paint depending on the radiator material

The paint’s compatibility with the battery material is another crucial factor. To make things clear, we’ve included a summary of all the options in Table 1, which will assist you in choosing enamels for central heating.

Paint types for various battery types are listed in Table 1.

Radiator type	Type of paint
Cast iron	Oil, acrylic, alkyd, hammer, powder, Serebryanka, silicone, water-based
Steel*	Acrylic, alkyd, hammer, water-based, powder
Aluminum**	Powder
Bimetallic	Acrylic, alkyd, hammer, powder, water-based

* Painting metal and bimetallic radiators that have been factory painted with powder paint yourself is not advised. In actuality, they apply two layers of paint and deep penetration primer. This paint dries quickly. needs regular touch-ups. The editors of the website suggest taking a different approach: adding a decorative screen.

** Certain experts advise using aerosol alkyd paints based on organic solvents to paint aluminum batteries. The paint will adhere, but it won’t last long.

How to calculate consumption

The quantity of paint needed for painting a flat surface is simple to figure out. It suffices to multiply its area by the number of layers and paintwork material consumption (the average indicator is always listed on the label). Everything is much more challenging when using batteries because of the intricate sectional geometry.

You can still perform the calculation on your own if you’d like. To accomplish this, locate the section’s heat transfer area in the design documentation. Additional computations are performed using the following formula:

P is equal to S x n x M x 1.2.

• P – required amount of paint, kg;
• S—area of ​​one section, m2;
• n — number of sections in the radiator, pcs.;
• M—paint consumption per 1 m2, kg;
• 1.2 – correction factor.

You can use an online calculator if the registration certificate has not been saved or if you need the result quickly. They’re abundant on the Internet. One of them can be found at this address to save time: https://stroyday.ru/kalkulyatory/skolko-kraski-nuzhno-kupit-dlya-pokraski-chugunnyx-radiatorov-ekonomnomu-xozyainu-na-zametku.html.

You must enter the necessary indicators and follow the program’s instructions in order to calculate.

Popular paints for radiators

In order to avoid purchasing a fake paint, it is preferable to concentrate on paint manufacturers that are well-known to consumers. It should be remembered that most manufacturers base their entire paint and varnish range on a single binder. As a result, we rank the top paints based on their category.

Note that all ratings are subjective, so it’s possible that a well-liked paint and varnish material will be left off the list of the best in the opinion of some online users. This is not a buying guide, nor is it an advertisement.

Acrylic paints

All enamel types are included in the list of top acrylic paints, without any distinction made based on solvent type.

Enamel “AURA LUXPRO TERMO”

Due to its advantages, heat-resistant, semi-matte acrylic enamel "AURA LUXPRO TERMO" (Russian origin) topped the list. Among the top battery-compatible odorless paints.

• easy to apply, including on hot batteries and pipes;
• without leaving streaks after the brush;
• dries quickly;
• has anti-corrosion properties;
• withstands temperatures up to +120 o C;
• has no smell;
• retains the original shade throughout its service life;
• fits well on alkyd and oil paints;
• the coating is durable, moisture resistant;
• tinted well.

• high price.

A 0.9 kg jar is available for 850 rubles.

Semi-matte enamel “Tikkurila” Remontti Assa

Among the best enamels in this category. didn’t win first place because of the astronomically high cost, which begins at 1150 rubles. (previously discounted) for 0.9 l.

• environmentally friendly – has the EU “Eco-label”;
• high level of heat resistance – can withstand heating up to 85 o C;
• can be washed – resistance to wet friction 1 class;
• quick-drying.

• inaccessible to the majority of consumers due to the high price (average 1,250 rubles. for 0.9 l).

Enamel "Dekor"

There are no organic solvents present in Russian enamel "Dekor." speaks of all-purpose paints and varnishes. Her strengths allowed her to move up into the top three.

• environmental cleanliness;
• quick drying – 1 hour is enough;
• no odor;
• budget price.

• not very high resistance to mechanical stress;
• gets dirty quickly.

You can purchase 0.8 kg for 450–490 rubles.

Apart from the manufacturers mentioned, positive feedback regarding acrylic enamels for radiators can be found for the following brands:

• DUFA (Germany);
• "Prestige Ferrum Premium" (Russia);
• "Radiator Paint" (Denmark);
• "Caparol" Samtex 7 ELF (Belarus).

Alkyd paints

Numerous brands of alkyd paints have received favorable reviews. Though they are slight, the differences do exist. As a result, assigning an objective rating is challenging.

Enamel "Tikkurila" Empire

Experts deem semi-matte alkyd enamel from a reputable Finnish manufacturer to be of superior quality. This is justified in every way.

• does not form drips. The consistency is chosen so that when using a brush or roller you can rarely see drips;
• excellent level of adhesion to the surface of radiators;
• quickly applied;
• easy to tint.

• Particularly careful surface preparation is required;
• there are requirements for indoor conditions during painting (air temperature above 5 o C, humidity – from 80%);
• relatively high flow rate (10-12 m 2 /l);
• there is a slight odor during application;
• high price – from 1140 rubles. for 0.9 l (produced in Russia costs about 2 times cheaper).

Enamel "SADOLIN" MASTER 30

The battery enamel from this Swedish manufacturer is of excellent quality and has a nice semi-matte sheen.

• protects metal well from corrosion;
• does not form streaks;
• does not wear out when washed with a wet sponge;
• lays down in a thin, even layer;
• tinted in any color and shade.

• there is an unpleasant smell. With intensive ventilation it quickly disappears;
• rarely found on sale;
• high cost – starts from 1250 for 0.9 l.

Enamel "Olecolor"

Among paints in the mid-range price range, alkyd enamel "Olecolor" is regarded as having the best heat-resistant composition.

• sold ready-made (after stirring, can be applied immediately);
• You can paint not only metal, but also wood;
• does not turn yellow over time;
• has good heat resistance – can withstand heating up to +80 o C;
• creates an even semi-gloss layer;
• allows painting of radiators and heating pipes in winter;
• has a pure white color;
• tinting possible;
• easily removed with a wash;
• affordable price.

• liquid consistency;
• pungent, unpleasant odor;
• takes a long time to dry – drying time of the first layer – 14 hours. After applying the second layer, the paint dries for another 24 hours;
• short service life of the coating – about 3 years.

For 0.9 kg, you can purchase for 775 rubles.

Aerosols – an alternative to liquid paints

Aerosol paints are a quick and effective way to paint radiators. Many brands are available for purchase. List the top ones now.

Enamel "ETUDE"

Experts believe that ETUD enamel is the finest aerosol in its class.

• good heat resistance – can withstand temperatures up to +100 o C;
• Application instructions allow you to paint working radiators;
• dries super quickly – 10 minutes is enough.;
• snow White;
• simple application technology.

• runs out quickly – not always enough for one battery.

A can costs 270 rubles to purchase.

Enamel "MOTIP Deco"

With the exception of the flow below, which enables you to paint the battery entirely using the required number of sections, Motip Deco paint can offer nearly identical benefits to the leader’s leader. However, the drawbacks are very different. The first is the price, which starts at 585 rubles for 0.4 liter. The second is the smell, which is disagreeable and takes a while to go away.

Not to mention the aerosols:

• "Decorix 0105-04 DX" (Poland);
• "Vixen" (Russia-Japan);
• "KUDO" (Russia).

Oil paints

• "Sniezka Supermal";
• "DekArt" MA 15;
• "Alpina" Heizkorper;
• "Krafor" MA–15;
• "Lakra";
• "NOVOCOLOR" MA-15, etc.

The cost is inexpensive; 2.5 kg is available for 352 rubles.

Radiator paint selection is important from an aesthetic and functional standpoint. The paint must be able to endure high temperatures, stop rust, and keep its smooth, long-lasting finish. We’ll walk you through the best paint types, how to prepare your radiators, and application tips so they look great and continue to work for many years to come.

Recommendations for painting

There are two steps involved in painting batteries: primer and paint application on radiators.

Preparatory activities. In order to get ready for painting, the following technological processes are carried out:

• old paint and rust are removed;
• the surface is wiped from dust, and then sanded for painting;
• primer is applied in one or two layers.

Painting. Use a brush, roller, or spray painter to apply paint. To prevent fluxes, staining is done top to bottom. Once the first layer of enamel has dried, the second layer is applied.

This is where you will find all the intricacies and subtleties of painting and preparation.

Recommendation	Description
Heat Resistance	Choose a paint that can withstand high temperatures without cracking or peeling.
Non-Toxic	Ensure the paint is safe and doesn"t release harmful fumes, especially when heated.
Quick-Drying	Opt for a paint that dries quickly to reduce waiting time between coats.
Corrosion Protection	Select a paint that prevents rust and corrosion to extend the life of your radiators.
Easy Application	Look for paint that is easy to apply, whether using a brush, roller, or spray.
Color Options	Pick a paint that offers a variety of colors to match your interior decor.
Durability	Ensure the paint is durable and can withstand wear and tear over time.

Selecting the appropriate paint for your radiators can significantly impact their look and performance. Choosing a paint that can endure high temperatures and offer a long-lasting finish is crucial.

Paints made especially for radiators should be used because they are made to withstand heat without chipping or yellowing. Water-based paints are also a fantastic choice because of their quick drying time and minimal smell.

Make sure the surface is adequately prepared before painting. To guarantee that the paint sticks well, thoroughly clean the radiators and lightly sand them. The paint will look better and last longer if a suitable primer is applied.

Finally, keep in mind to apply primer and paint according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will guarantee that you get the best results and that your radiators will continue to look new and attractive for many years to come.

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