How to Paint Behind a Radiator

Painting a room can completely refresh a space, but one of the trickiest spots to tackle is behind a radiator. Leaving this area unpainted can make the job look unfinished, but with the right tools and techniques, you can get a seamless finish.

 

Why Is It So Difficult to Paint Behind a Radiator?

Most radiators sit close to the wall, leaving little to no space for a standard paintbrush or roller. Without proper access, you might end up with uneven patches or paint buildup at awkward angles. Luckily, there are simple solutions to help you achieve a professional-looking result.

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Behind a Radiator

 

1. Prepare the Area

• Turn off the heating and allow the radiator to cool completely before painting.

• Lay down a dust sheet or protective covering to catch any drips.

• Use masking tape or cling film to cover the top of the radiator—this prevents tiny paint splashes from settling on it.

• If possible, move furniture out of the way to give yourself more room to work.

 

2. Choose the Right Tools

Since a standard roller or paintbrush won’t fit, you’ll need a radiator paint roller.

• What is a radiator roller? It’s a long, slim roller with an extended handle, designed to fit into tight spaces.

• The angled shape allows you to reach behind without needing to remove the radiator.

• It ensures even coverage without excess paint dripping onto your radiator or pooling in awkward spots.

 

3. Start Painting

• Load the radiator roller with a small amount of wall paint (for behind the radiator—radiator paint is only needed for the radiator itself).

• Apply thin, even coats, moving the roller in a vertical or slightly diagonal motion to cover the wall behind.

• Use a small, long-handled paintbrush to get into any hard-to-reach corners.

• Let the first coat dry completely before applying a second coat if needed.

 

4. Avoid Paint Splashes & Drips

Even with careful painting, small flecks of paint can land on the radiator itself. To avoid this:

✅ Cover the top of the radiator with cling film or masking tape.

✅ Wipe off any accidental drips with a damp cloth before the paint dries.

 

5. Removing the Radiator (Optional)

For a perfect finish, some DIYers prefer to temporarily remove the radiator. If you’re comfortable doing this:

• Turn off the heating and isolate the radiator valves.

• Drain any excess water before removing it from the brackets.

• Paint behind it as usual, then reattach once the paint is fully dry.

 

6. Painting the Radiator Itself

If your radiator needs a refresh, make sure to use radiator paint, which is heat-resistant and won’t crack or yellow over time. Standard wall paint won’t last on a radiator due to the high temperatures.

Get the Right Tools for the Job!

 

Need a radiator paint roller? We’ve got them in-store and online! Check out our latest blog for more expert DIY tips.