January 30, 2025
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.
