A large part of our range is made up of the enduringly popular cast iron radiators. The Victorians knew how to create objects that were practical at the same time as being great to look at. When you think of a traditional radiator, decorative shapes like the Burlington readily spring to mind, so if you are hoping to retain the character of your period property, cast iron radiators are the obvious choice.

We are frequently asked questions about cast iron radiators, so thought it’d be a good idea to bring these questions together in one blog in the hope we’ll answer yours. Please feel free to contact us if you still have any questions.

How efficient are cast iron radiators?

In a word, ‘very’! If you went to school in a draughty old building and have memories of trying to huddle around a lukewarm cast iron radiator on cold winter days, then this is probably the first question that will spring to mind. Rest assured that modern cast iron radiators are extremely efficient – no different, in fact, to the heating output and efficiency of other styles of the designer radiators we stock.

Do they take a long time to heat up?

Cast iron radiators will take a bit longer to warm up than other styles, but on the other hand, they’ll also take longer to cool down. Once you get used to them, you can adjust the times that your heating comes on so you’re always warm when you want to be. Can I get them in different colours? Yes. Most of our styles are available in many different colours, as well as a wide range of finishes and polishes that will enhance their beauty.

How difficult is it to repaint cast iron radiators?

The casting process that’s used to produce cast iron radiators means they have a slightly rougher finish than radiators made out of different materials. So if you want to repaint your cast iron radiator, the best way to get a smooth finish is to use spray paint. Spraying them will also mean you can reach areas that would be hard to get to with a brush, resulting in a more successful finish.

How authentic are your cast iron radiators?

All our radiators are made brand new. Some are a modern take on the traditional design, and others are made using templates of the original models, which gives you authenticity at the same time as offering you the advantages that come with a brand-new product, such as a five- or ten-year guarantee (depending on the model).

What about using reclaimed cast iron radiators?

If you fancy picking up an original radiator and renovating it yourself, it should work just as well as buying a brand-new one. We don’t sell reclaimed radiators, but we can supply you with accessories that will help you retain their authentic look. See below. Do you stock accessories that match cast iron radiators? Yes, we do! Whether you need a new cast iron foot for your radiator to stand on, a retaining stay that fits in with the character of it, or an ornamental replacement valve set that will do a great job of helping you keep your room at exactly the right temperature, we’ll have something that will do the job well and look great too.

Do you stock accessories that match cast iron radiators?

Yes, we do! Whether you need a new cast iron foot for your radiator to stand on, a retaining stay that fits in with the character of it, or an ornamental replacement valve set that will do a great job of helping you keep your room at exactly the right temperature, we’ll have something that will do the job well and look great too.