Last Updated on February 17, 2022
Our editors independently research the best products online to produce this list. We may receive commission on purchases made from the links below but this will never affect our product choices.
Top 10 Best Radiator Paints
- Dulux Jasmine (Editor’s Choice)
- Jenolite Directorust 1L (Luxury Choice)
- Rustins RADS250 (Best Value)
- Hammerite 5092847 (Best Spray)
- Hammerite REG500 (Best Anti-Rust)
- Blackfriar BKFHRB250 (Best Matt)
- Rustins HRMB250 Quick Dry (Best Texture)
- Rustins RADE500 (Best Gloss)
- WRX RAL 7016 (Best Anthracite)
- Rust-Oleum Ultra Tough (Best Heavy-Duty)
Are you looking for high-quality radiator paint that will make your radiator look stylish with just one coat or two coats?
Whether you are planning to cover an old radiator with some new paint, change the colour of your radiator, or work on rusty patches, painting a radiator is a maintenance procedure that improves the durability of a radiator.
However, finding a suitable heat-resistant paint for your radiator can be rather challenging. While there are different types of paint in the market, some paints might not be compatible with radiators.
Moreover, if you use paint formulated from weak chemicals or weak compounds, it might peel off after a short period, exposing your radiator to harsh conditions.
You have to use high-quality paint to resist harsh conditions and high-temperature heat to get effective results. Well, in this post, we will give you an insight into the best radiator paints. We will take you through some of the factors you should be keen on while looking for the best radiator paint. Let’s dive in.
How we Compared Radiator Paints
To find the right radiator paints we considered multiple factors, including:
- Type of finish
- Heat resistance
- Rust protection
Our team independently examined and compared hundreds of products to help satisfy different needs. We spent our time researching radiator paints and consulting customer reviews to ultimately bring you what, in our opinion, are the best options on the market right now.
To find out more about our editorial process, take a look here.
Radiator Paint Reviews
Dulux Jasmine (Editor’s Choice)
This radiator paint from Dulux gives your radiator an attractive glossy finish, which improves the interior decor of a room, making it look more stylish.
The Dulux Jasmine white comes in a 750 ML can with enough paint to cover different types of radiators. Not to mention, one litre of this paint is enough to cover a surface area of about 16 M2.
Since this paint comes in a 750 ML can, it can cover a surface area of 12 M2. On top of that, it is a one-coat radiator paint that saves you from the trouble of applying another undercoat before you paint your radiator.
Furthermore, this one coat radiator paint from Dulux has a short drying time. It can take about 6 hours to dry off completely, making it easier for you to apply a second fresh coat of paint on your radiator.
While this radiator paint from Dulux gives your radiator an attractive finish, it might trigger some allergic reactions in users who may be sensitive to some chemicals. It might be crucial to go through the manufacturer’s product information before you use this paint.
Pros:
- It covers a large surface area
- Short drying time
- A stylish gloss white finish
- One-coat paint
- Blends smoothly with the interior decor various rooms
Cons:
- It may trigger allergic reactions in users who are sensitive to various chemicals
- A single coat may leave drips
Jenolite Directorust 1L (Luxury Choice)
The Jenolite Directorust gives your radiator a stain finish, which complements the interior decor of your house. Plus, it might be the best radiator paint from Directorust.
Unlike other radiator paints, the Jenolite Directorust is a multi-purpose paint that can be used as your radiator’s topcoat, primer, or undercoat.
Moreover, you can apply this paint to the surface of a rusted radiator. Due to this, you can easily restore your radiator to its initial condition by removing any rust that might be on its surface. On top of that, the Directorust is corrosion-resistant, which protects your radiator from harsh conditions that might corrode the radiator’s surface.
Since the Jenolite Directorust comes in a 1-litre can, it offers you enough paint to apply at least two coats on your radiator to get an even finish.
This paint also dries evenly, giving your radiator a smooth, satin finish, which is free of paint-brush marks.
However, it might dry up after a long period.
Pros:
- Suitable for rusted radiators
- Corrosion-resistant
- A stylish satin white colour
- Dries evenly
- Multi-purpose
Cons:
- It may dry up after a long period
- It might be too runny
Rustins RADS250 (Best Value)
If you are looking for an affordable radiator paint that will help you improve the paint job of your entire radiator, the Rustins RAD S250 might be a suitable metal paint for your radiator.
Since the Rustins RADS259 is a heat-resistant paint, it can handle hot water pipes’ heat for a long time without melting. Not to mention, this heat-resistant paint doesn’t have a strong odour that might make you feel uncomfortable(low odour paint).
Due to this, you can easily paint radiators comfortably.
Apart from that, the Rustins RADS259 has a white colour that blends perfectly with floor space. Not to mention, it has an attractive satin finish that makes your radiator look good.
The Rustins RADS259 can be used to touch up various radiators, making it easier for you to restore various radiators to their initial condition.
The biggest setback with this quick-dry radiator paint is this; it contains various chemicals that may trigger an allergic reaction in various users.
Pros:
- High heat-resistance properties
- It doesn’t have a strong odour
- Wet paint dries up fast (quick-drying paint)
- Satin finish
- An attractive colour shade
Cons:
- It has various chemicals that might trigger allergic reactions
- The quantity of this satin paint might be inadequate for some users
Hammerite 5092847 (Best Spray)
If you are looking for an aerosol paint that will help you restore an old radiator to its original condition, the Hammerite 5092847 might be suitable for you.
The Hammerite 5092847 comes in a 400 ml pressurized can, which makes it easier for you to apply the paint on the surface of your radiator in a short period.
This aerosol paint also has high heat-resistant properties and can handle the heat conducted from radiators without melting. On that note, the Hammerite 5092847 is a long-lasting radiator paint, which forms a durable coat on the surface of radiators, protecting them from harsh conditions.
On top of that, this radiator paint is quite effective in preventing rust formation.
This aerosol spray paint, which is made from high-quality chemicals, can improve the paint job of your radiator, giving it a superb satin finish. Unlike other aerosol spray paints, the Hammerite 50902847 is resistant to yellowing. It still retains the gloss white finish once it is applied on the surface of your radiator.
While this aerosol spray paint makes it easier for you to restore your radiator to its mint condition, spray painting for an extended period might make you feel dizzy.
Pros:
- Heat-resistant
- Effective in preventing rust formation
- High-quality satin finish
- It leaves a superb satin finish on the surface
- Resistant to yellowing and retains the gloss white finish
Cons:
- It might make you feel dizzy as you are applying it to radiators
- It might trigger various allergies in different users
Hammerite REG500 (Best Anti-Rust)
The Hammerite REG500 comes in a 500 ml tin with enough paint to improve the paint job of various radiators. This paint, which is formulated from high-quality compounds, leaves an attractive glossy finish on the surface of your radiator once it dries up. Plus, it has heat-resistant properties that are suitable for hot water pipes.
Since this radiator paint can withstand high temperatures, it can retain its colour for a long period of time. It also forms a durable coat on the surface of your radiator, protecting it from conditions that might cause rust and corrosion.
When it comes to rust, this radiator paint can be used on rusted radiators, saving them from the effects of rust. Additionally, you do not have to prep the radiator’s surface in any way before you apply the first coat of this metal paint.
Manufactured from compounds that make your work easier, the Hammerite REG500 dries up in a short time (around 6 to 8 eight hours).
Like other paints, the Hammerite REG500 might make you feel dizzy or drowsy as you paint your radiator.
Pros:
- Protects radiators from rust and corrosion
- Glossy finish
- Withstands high temperatures
- The colour doesn’t change to yellow
- Restores rusted radiators to their mint condition
Cons:
- It may make you feel dizzy or drowsy
- It might irritate your skin
Blackfriar BKFHRB250 (Best Matt)
As the name hints, this is a radiator paint that leaves a stylish black matte finish on the surface of various radiators.
Manufactured from compounds with superb properties, the Blackfriar BKFHRB250 can handle the heat coming from hot pipes. On top of that, this radiator paint can handle temperatures that are between 0 degrees and 200 degrees.
The Blackfriar BKFHRB250 is also quite effective in improving the appearance of rusted radiator surfaces by getting rid of the rust that might be affecting such radiators. On top of that, this black matt radiator paint can cover your whole radiator, protecting it from tough conditions that cause rust and corrosion.
Speaking of paint coverage, the Blackfriar BKFHRB250 comes in a 250 ml can, making it possible for you to apply various coats of paint on your radiator.
And another thing, this black matt paint from Blackfriar dries up after a short time, giving you enough time to apply another coat on your radiator.
The most significant setback with this quick-dry radiator paint is this; it might irritate eyes severely.
Pros:
- Handles high-temperature heat
- Rust protection
- Good paint coverage
- Protects various radiators from conditions that cause corrosion and rust
- Deals with rusted radiators and offers rust protection
Cons:
- This black matt paint might irritate eyes easily
- It comes with compounds and elements that might trigger allergic reactions
Rustins HRMB250 Quick Dry (Best Texture)
The Rustins HRMB250 is a heat-resistant paint that improves the appearance of your radiator, giving it an attractive matt finish that blends perfectly with the interior decor of different spaces.
Formulated from high-quality elements and compounds, the Rustins HRM250 can withstand heat conducted from your radiator. In fact, you can use it on surfaces that have a maximum temperature of 600°C.
The Rustins HRMB250 is quite effective in protecting metal surfaces from harsh conditions that may cause corrosion or rust.
Apart from that, this radiator paint from Rustins has a superb texture. Not to mention, the Rustins HRMB250 dries up very quickly, saving your time while you are restoring your radiator to its initial condition.
Unlike other paints, this radiator paint from Rustins doesn’t have a strong odour that might make you uncomfortable while painting the surface of your radiator.
Additionally, the 250 grams container comes with enough paint, making it easier for you to apply two coats on the surface of your radiator.
While this tinned paint helps you improve the appearance of your radiator, it might produce some toxic fumes when it’s exposed to extremely high temperatures.
Pros:
- Resistant to heat
- Attractive matt finish
- Dries up in a short period of time
- Enough to give you various coats
- Protects radiators from harsh conditions
Cons:
- It might produce toxic fumes when exposed to high temperatures
- It might not be effective when exposed to temperatures above 300° C
Rustins RADE500 (Best Gloss)
If you are looking for a radiator paint that will leave a glossy finish on the surface of your radiator, the Rustins RADE500 might be ideal for you.
Made from high-quality elements and compounds, the Rustins RadeE500 can be used on different types of radiators. It is a heat-resistant paint that can easily withstand the heat that might be radiated from heated surfaces. On top of that, it retains the gloss white finish even after being exposed to extremely high temperatures.
Furthermore, the Rustins RadeE500 is quite effective in protecting the surface of radiators from harsh conditions, saving your radiator from rust and corrosion. What’s more, the Rustins RadeE500 can improve the appearance of your radiator with a single coat.
Since the Rustins RadeE500 is quite thin, it can easily be applied on a metallic surface. Not to mention, it doesn’t have any strong odour that might make you uncomfortable.
However, the odour might be strong for some users. The odour might fade off completely after a certain number of days.
Pros:
- Resistant to heat
- It can be applied to different surfaces quite easily
- High-quality gloss white finish
- It retains its colour even after being exposed to extremely high temperatures
- One coat is enough to improve the appearance of your radiator
Cons:
- The odour might be strong for some users
- The odour fades off after a number of days
WRX RAL 7016 (Best Anthracite)
Since the colours of radiators might be different, this spray paint from WRX makes it easier for you to improve the appearance of your radiator, giving it an attractive glossy anthracite finish.
This anthracite radiator paint is formulated from compounds and elements with good adhesive properties, unlike other radiator paints. Due to this, it can adhere easily to different types of surfaces. You can also apply it to different types of radiators, which might be made from different materials.
Whether your radiator is made from cast iron, stainless steel, or mild steel, the spray paint colour will restore it to its previous condition.
Furthermore, the WRX RAL 7016 dries up in a short period of time, giving you enough time to apply more coats on your radiator to get an even finish.
Also, the WRX RAL 7016 is resistant to heat and can be used on radiators that conduct high-temperature heat to the environment. On top of that, it retains the attractive, glossy anthracite finish even when it is exposed to heat.
This gloss radiator paint comes in a pressurized can that sprays acrylic paint in a short time, saving your time while you are painting. Not to mention, the can comes with a special nozzle that uses a nano-technology principle to improve the bond between the main pigment and the resin, making it easier for you to paint various radiators.
While the pressurized container saves your time as you are improving the appearance of your radiator, it may explode when it is exposed to high-temperature heat.
Pros:
- Superb adhesion
- Pressurized spray paint can that saves your time as you are painting
- Resistant to high-temperature heat
- Nano-technology for improving pigment-resin bond and the bond between paint particles
- Attractive glossy anthracite finish
Cons:
- The can may explode when exposed to high-temperature heat
- This acrylic, anthracite paint may not be long-lasting
Rust-Oleum Ultra Tough (Best Heavy-Duty)
If you are looking for a radiator paint that can cover your radiator for a long period of time without flaking, the Rust-Oleum Ultra Tough might be a suitable paint for your radiator.
As the name hints, the Rust-Oleum Ultra Tough is made from various chemicals that can effectively protect your radiator and keep it in a mint condition.
For starters, the Rust-oleum Ultra Tough can withstand the high temperatures that radiate from hot water pipes. On top of that, it retains its grey colour even after being exposed to high temperatures.
The Rust-Oleum Ultra Tough has a non-yellowing formula and can last for a long period without fading to a yellow colour.
Better yet, this coloured radiator paint can cover your radiator effectively, protecting it from harsh conditions that cause corrosion and rust. Not to mention, this grey radiator paint is resistant to water/moisture and can protect the outer surface of your radiator during a leakage (moisture resistant).
Besides that, the Rust-Oleum Ultra Tough can be applied on a metallic surface that doesn’t have a radiator primer coat. This saves you from the hassle of going through various options, looking for a metal primer paint that might be suitable for your radiator.
While this is a high-quality paint that can protect your radiator for a long period of time, it may irritate your skin or eyes when it comes into contact with such parts.
Pros:
- Resistant to high-temperature heat
- Protects your radiator from conditions that may cause corrosion or rust (moisture resistant)
- It can be used on a surface that doesn’t have a primer coat
- It retains the attractive, grey, cast-iron texture finish even after being exposed to heat
- Long-lasting
Cons:
- It may irritate your skin or eyes if it accidentally comes into contact with such parts
- Packs certain compounds that may trigger multiple allergic reactions
Paints That Can Be Used on Radiators
Since radiators come with hot water pipes that radiate high-temperature heat to the environment, you have to paint radiators using special paint. There are different types of paints that paint manufacturers specially formulated to help you restore a radiator to its previous condition or give it a high-quality finish.
On the other hand, standard emulsion paint cannot withstand extremely harsh conditions and might not be ideal for painting radiators. For instance, the colour might fade if the normal wall paint is exposed to high-temperature heat. Not to mention, standard wall paints are made from various chemicals that may produce a pungent odour when exposed to heat.
Here are some of the most suitable paints that can help you paint your radiator:
Heat Resistant Radiator Paint
As the name hints, you can use heat resistant radiator paints on metal surfaces that conduct a lot of heat energy.
Such paints can withstand high-temperature heat without getting affected in any way. Well, most radiator paints are formulated from compounds and elements that have excellent heat-resistant properties.
For example, you can use many radiator paints on hot water pipes with temperatures ranging from 100°C to 600°C.
Spray Paints
While most spray paints are usually formulated to be used on normal surfaces, there are also special types of spray paints that can be used to improve the appearance of radiators. Such spray paints are made from elements and compounds that can withstand high temperatures for a long period.
The good thing about spray paints is that they make the whole painting easier, saving your time as you are restoring an old or rusty radiator back to its original state. Spray paints always come in a pressurized container that spurts out paint at high pressure, covering a wide area in a short period.
Apart from that, different types of spray containers might come with a unique mechanism or technology, boosting the overall efficiency. For example, some spray cans might be designed with a twist and lock mechanism that saves you from the hassle of opening the cap before you start painting.
Clearly, spray paints are more effective in improving the appearance of radiators than using paint brushes.
Clear Radiator Overcoat
As the name hints, this paint doesn’t have any type of pigmentation that can improve the appearance of your radiator.
However, it is quite effective in protecting your radiator from harsh external conditions. You should apply this paint to your radiator after using standard emulsion paint to cover the metallic surface of your radiator.
Factors To Consider While Buying The Best Radiator Paint
Here are some of the most important factors that you should consider while looking for the best radiator paint for a DIY project:
Type of Finish
Well, most paints are formulated from compounds and elements that leave an attractive finish on your radiator, making it look stylish.
Due to this, you should opt for the type of finish that suits you the most. Some of the most common types of finishes that might make your radiator look stylish include the satin finish, matt finish, and glossy finish. Most radiator paints come with a product label that lists the properties of the main paint formula. This makes it easier for you to know the type of finish that is offered by various paints.
Heat Resistance
While different types of radiator paints are resistant to high-temperature heat, the level of resistance varies. As a result, various types of radiator paints might be affected differently after being exposed to heat.
The most effective radiator paints can withstand temperatures ranging from 100°C to 500°C. On the other hand, radiator paints with poor heat resistance might crack or produce a strong odour once a certain threshold is reached.
Rust Protection
Well, most radiators are manufactured from metals that can rust or corrode after being exposed to harsh conditions. If you want to protect your radiator from such conditions, you have to use paint that is resistant to such conditions. For example, a radiator paint with moisture-resistance properties can protect your radiator from corrosion and rust.
Conclusion
And there you have it, everything you need to find the best radiator paint. Well, painting radiators with the best radiator paint can improve the overall appearance of radiators. Not to mention, heat resistant radiator paints can cover your radiator for a long period, protecting it from harsh conditions.
Whether you are planning to use water-based radiator paint or enamel paint for radiators, you will still get superb results. We recommend the Dulux Jasmine. It gives your radiator an attractive glossy finish, improving the interior decor of your room. Not to mention, this paint from Dulux comes in a 750 Ml container, making it easier for you to apply two coats on your radiator.
Additional Resources
Nicole has a passion for everything about the home – especially decor. She loves to add new touches and style to every part of the house. Join her as she documents her ideas at Home & Style.
