Transform a tired looking radiator from £10 with this clever paint hack

Give a discoloured old radiator a new lease of life with a simple paint job

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Radiators, essential yes, but sometimes they're pretty ugly. I can say this from personal experience, as a discoloured radiator sits in my hallway bringing down the decor.

Faced with the option of replacing it at great cost, I'm now thinking a splash of paint might be the better option.

That theory is backed up by seeing this bold painted radiator transformation!

More DIY triumphs: DIY enthusiast proves how painting a UPVC door can transform homes – and it only cost £10

DIY supremo Hester van Overbeek, from Hester's Handmade Home, shows us how it's done.

Hester's radiator before

room with white radiator on white wall

(Image credit: Hestser Van Overbeek)

The DIY author and blogger shares the colourful, abstract painted radiator she created for her daughters bedroom.

Using Rust-Oleum Universal All Surface-Paint in just a few simple steps Hester has transformed a drab looking radiator, into a piece of art!

pink paint can and radiator on wall

(Image credit: Hestser Van Overbeek)

Hester, being a pro, has created a work of art with free-hand painting. If you're not as confident you could us a stencil – to get the perfcet finish.

The Universal All-Surface Paint is a super-durable, advanced paint and primer in one. You have to choose a specialist paint that can withstand the high temperatures produced by radiators – emulsion will not do the trick! The right paint makes the finish fade and chip resistant, therefore more durable.

Painted radiator transformed

painted radiator on white wall and grey floor

(Image credit: Hestser Van Overbeek)

Proving you don't need to merely reach for white paint, this makeover shows how bold can be beautiful. And you can do the same from the choice of in 26 colours and finished available. The only limitation when it comes to your painted radiator masterpiece if your own imagination.

Rust-Oleum Universal All-Surface Paint is available from all good DIY stores, such as Homebase and B&Q. A 250ml cost just £10, and that's a lot cheaper than a new radiator.

More inspiration: See how one DIY fan totally transformed her living room – creating a fireplace for under £80

Don't let a tired looking heating solution make your room look shabby! Freshen things up with a coat of paint.

Tamara Kelly
Contributor

Tamara was Ideal Home's Digital Editor before joining the Woman & Home team in 2022. She has spent the last 15 years working with the style teams at Country Homes & Interiors and Ideal Home, both now at Future PLC. It’s with these award wining interiors teams that she's honed her skills and passion for shopping, styling and writing. Tamara is always ahead of the curve when it comes to interiors trends – and is great at seeking out designer dupes on the high street. 

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