Most professional decorators just use the same paint as they’re using on the woodwork though with the most popular choice being Johnstone’s Aqua Guard satin. Are there elements of laziness here? More than likely. But it just goes to show that sometimes convenience beats quality in the decorating world. Formulated to provide a heat-resistant brilliant white finish on radiators,Radiator Enamel prevents both yellowing and rust, and creates a tough, long-lasting finish. As it’s an aerosol, make sure ventilation is ample and, as there’s also a strong element of “spray ‘n’ pray”, ensure walls and floors are copiously covered in newspaper so that the fine mist of paint you’re generating doesn’t ruin your house and your day. As mentioned above, durability is a shining quality of this paint with its toughness so impressive that it can withstand use on many items such as stove fires and barbecues. Available in 13 subtle colours, your first – and possibly only – coat should be touch-dry within a couple of hours. If you judge a second coat necessary, leave at least three to four hours to ensure ideal conditions.

In terms of durability, you can expect this paint to last years due to its tough finish which requires minimal maintenance. So what makes this radiator paint so good? Whilst the end result is almost always fantastic, it’s the easy process which makes it possible that should get your attention. This paint can be applied directly to new, bare or previously painted radiators with minimal preparation and simply makes your life easier.

Frequently asked questions

One common issue with painting radiators is that the paint is rather thin and cheaper brands especially tend to formulate paint that results in drips and runs. Fortunately, Hammerite’s radiator paint has excellent adhesion and thus tends to avoid this issue.

Your primer not only creates a vital, stable base for your paint, it also ensures any rusted or exposed areas are protected. To apply, just use a simple paintbrush, making sure you cover every inch. If your radiator is of a more elaborate design, it will probably be worth investing in an angled brush to avoid missing areas too.

If you’re looking for the best spray paint for radiators, we’d highly recommend Rust Oleum’s Radiator Enamel. This spray paint has been specifically formulated for use on radiators and is washable as well as moisture resistant. Depending on your preference, the radiator can be painted whilst on or off the wall. If it is being painted whilst on the wall, ensure that the wall behind and floor underneath are fully covered.

Lots of people are unaware that radiator paint can not only restore the look of their radiators but the performance too. It’s for that reason, radiator paint is well worth the small investment. If you’re the kind of person who a) doesn’t want to bother themselves with priming, and b) also has drying time in abundance, there’s a less labour-intensive route to radiator-painting perfection: Rust-Oleum’s Universal All Surface paint. Heat resistant to 190°C, higher than most radiator paints, it is self-priming, so you can paint straight on top of previously painted radiators or bare metal radiators - though we recommend a primer for a better finish. It is touch dry in 2-4 hours, and two coats will be needed if covering a previously white radiator, however, you will need to wait for another 12 hours in between coats. To get the best finish, rub down the radiator with sandpaper and remove all dust and debris afterwards.Fed up with white radiators and fancy a cool contemporary colour instead? Then this Anthracite Grey enamel satin paint is a good choice to give your radiator a modern twist.