How to Build Your Own Decorative Radiator Cover

Many people have radiators in their home. Some use them for heat and others just for decoration. No matter what you use yours for you can build a decorative radiator cover with these ideas.

Radiators come in all different shapes and sizes. There are many different colors that they come in also. When you are thinking of making a radiator cover for yours there are several things to keep in mind. Before making a cover for your radiator you must make sure that it is working properly.

The Color

When you want to build a decorative radiator cover consider the color of the room that it is in. You should make your cover so that it fits in with the color scheme of the room. Nothing that will stand out to much because you will want it to blend in with the rest of the furniture and accessories in the room. If you make it with too drastic a color difference it will become the focal point of the room.

Materials That Can Be Used

In order to build a decorative radiator cover you will need to find the proper materials. There are several different ones that you can use.

One great way to make a radiator cover is to use metal fencing. You can find this type of fencing at a home improvement store. You can cut this to size when you want to make a cover for your radiator. If you wish to paint it a certain color you must use heat resistant paint. This will give the radiator an interesting look and still allow for good heating throughout the room. The fence can be attached to the wall with a hammer and nails.

You can also use a metal covering for your radiator. This will be heat resistant when you set it up around the radiator. You can paint it with heat resistant paint to match the color scheme in the room. You may even wish to put a pattern with the paint on it. You will need to measure the front and the sides of the radiator and allow at least an extra three inches. Attach your metal covering pieces with hinges by using a screwdriver and screws. Do not put a top on the radiator. Leave it open to allow the heat to fill the room.

If The Radiator Will Not Be Used

Perhaps you will not be using your radiator. Not using the radiator can save money. This will allow you to make a cover with other types of materials. You can use a metal shelving unit to fit over it and hang a decorative cover over it. This way you can store items on top of it. (Only use this method if you are not planning to use the radiator and it is completely off at all times.)

Safety Issues

Even when you do build a decorative radiator cover, you should not place things on top of it. This is dangerous. The top of the radiator should not be used as a shelving item.

When you build your decorative radiator cover make sure that you leave plenty of space around it. You don't want to make the cover too close to the actual radiator. Let it stick out several inches from the actual radiator.