Odorless paint for radiators: a choice according to the characteristics of materials and application features

Choosing a paintwork

Installing new batteries is costly. Sometimes there is no possibility of installation from the technical side. It is easier to paint the outside of the heating device if it still serves well.

The restoration itself will not cause difficulties, but this does not mean that you can purchase any composition and immediately begin to restore the battery. The paint should also be selected according to certain characteristics, and the radiator itself should be prepared responsibly. If you close your eyes to this point, the new coating will not last long, and soon you will have to refresh the structure again.

An old cast iron battery with climbing paint looks completely unattractive. In addition, the material of its body is oxidized and corroded.

When choosing a composition, experts recommend considering only options designed specifically for heating appliances. However, if there is no such inscription on the label, then you need to analyze the instructions and find information about its heat resistance.

To get a high-quality, reliable and beautiful coating, you need to use paint designed specifically for heating batteries.

Optimum paint properties for radiators:

1. Heat resistance. The solution applied to the battery case must hold unchanged at temperatures of 80-90 ° C for a long time, which the manufacturer promises.
2. Color preservation. This is a prerequisite, since the restoration of batteries is primarily carried out in order to create aesthetics.
3. Adhesion. It is necessary that the paintwork has good adhesion to the surface to be coated. The battery should look attractive as it warms up and cools down.
4. Rust protection. The composition must have anti-corrosion properties so that the coating that adheres tightly to the body does not cause its destruction.
5. Abrasion resistance. From direct contact with various surrounding objects, things that can be dried on the heater, the paint should not wear off.
6. Safety. It is important that the composition is free of substances harmful to humans.

Remember that paint for cast iron batteries, steel and others must comply with all of the above points, and not just individual ones.

Popular brands of radiator paints

RadiatoPaint is a Dutch-made acrylic enamel. White gloss, beautifully and evenly lays down on the surface of batteries, almost does not smell of solvent, tolerates temperatures of + 90 ° C well. A capacity of 0.75 liters costs from 500 rubles.

DUFA Heizkorperlack is a German-made alkyd enamel with an excellent coating, does not turn yellow over time. It differs from analogues in almost no smell, it is well diluted with turpentine and white spirit, if you need to make the second layer a little thinner. A capacity of 0.75 liters costs from 350 rubles.

American paint in a High Heat aerosol can, convenient for self-processing of radiators. Lies on a metal surface evenly, does not leak, withstands temperatures up to 650 ° C, therefore, it is possible to process surfaces adjacent to the boiler. The price justifies itself - from 1 thousand rubles.

Inexpensive and high-quality Russian enamel for painting batteries based on glycerophthalic resins Alpa Alpalak. Adapted to temperatures up to + 120 ° C.Does not turn yellow (if applied to a primer), does not crack, washes well with abrasive particles, resistant to detergents and high temperatures. A half-liter can costs from 300 rubles. From domestic proposals it is also worth paying attention to the paint Dulux Master Lux Aqua and the primer-enamel "Unipol T-mark", "Profi VD - AK 1179" and "Colorika Aqua".

The main requirement for residential paints is safety.

Important! Cans of paint purchased from dubious retail outlets do not guarantee quality and special properties, since today many fakes of Chinese and domestic production are produced. And if the label says Termoaquaemail or Tikkurila, it is not a fact that these European manufacturers have anything to do with the strange fetid liquid inside the packaging.

Buyers of paints for radiators on the forums come to a consensus that any enamel is recommended to be applied to a primer. Even if it is a high-quality American aerosol or the most affordable acrylic or alkyd enamel of domestic production, it is important to follow all recommendations for storage, application and use.

Types of compositions

The technical component of the paint is the most important point to pay attention to. However, aesthetic parameters are also not in the last place.

Pros of acrylic compounds

Acrylic compounds belonging to the class of water-based dyes make it possible to kill two birds with one stone. An absolute plus is that it is odorless paint for radiators, quick-drying (about half an hour at room temperature), safe for the human body, characterized by moisture repellency. The composition forms a durable coating that is resistant to mechanical damage.

The aesthetic and technical characteristics of acrylic paints are perfect for heating appliances.

And also an important point - they do not lose their appearance at high temperatures for many years. Within 7-8 years, batteries will not turn yellow, cracks will not go, paint will not peel off.

The whiteness ratio of odorless acrylic paint for heating radiators is 96%, the color comes out quite bright, the surface looks like plastic, with a slight sheen.

Properties of alkyd paints

Alkyd solutions are heat-resistant, so they are also used for painting radiators. They are even stronger than acrylic paints, protect heating devices from corrosion processes, fit perfectly on the surface, and form an even coating.

At the same time, they are not as safe as water-based formulations. The solvent that is included in the composition does not smell very pleasant, it often stays in the room for at least a day. Drying is rather slow, and the characteristic odor may be present in the future.

Such alkyd compositions can only be used in rooms with good ventilation, it is recommended to leave the room while the odor dries and wears off.

Another big disadvantage is that the solutions retain their own color for a short time, and over time they begin to take on a yellow color. When you decide to buy exactly alkyd paint, then choose a composition that forms a glossy finish. In this case, the white battery will last longer, almost 20%, compared to matte or semi-matte solutions.

Other types of paint materials

For painting radiators, compositions are produced based on aluminum and silicate resins, which form a dense and elastic layer on the surface. Cracks do not appear on it, even with temperature drops. Silicate materials have high adhesion, do not require surface priming, and are designed to function at high temperature conditions.

Another variety is hammer, from the class of alkyd compounds.They form a rather interesting, special coating. After painting, the surface does not come out smooth, but as if slightly hammered with a hammer or with a chasing effect.

Hammer compounds perfectly hide the unevenness of cast iron batteries, and this characteristic is very useful for residents using an old heating system.

A big plus of hammer paints in their heterogeneous texture, thanks to which various irregularities, roughness and other imperfections of batteries become invisible. This property is very appreciated when it is required to paint old Soviet-type cast iron radiators, in which the rough surface will not be visible behind a special coating.

Often, silver can be used to restore batteries, which is a mixture of varnish and aluminum powder. It has excellent resistance to high temperatures and can be applied to both primers and old coatings. At the same time, the paint is characterized by a persistent odor, therefore, during its application, the rooms must be well ventilated.

You can buy silverware ready for painting. Alternatively, you can prepare the mixture yourself; for this, parts of aluminum powder are mixed with five parts of varnish.

Aluminum powder is explosive. Therefore, it is very dangerous to prepare the mixture yourself. It is not recommended to start this process if there are flammable objects and small children in the house.

Types of battery paints

How to paint a radiator is not even a question today. The modern market is filled with a fairly rich selection of specialized coloring agents suitable for heating devices in general and heating batteries in particular. This enables the consumer to make the best choice.

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Oil enamel

Oil paints are always in demand because they have specific advantages. They are almost completely devoid of a pungent chemical smell, even when the painted radiator heats up. They are produced in color versions of various colors, as well as in the form of a colorless dye composition. This odorless battery paint is convenient to use, since it is easy to apply to any metal of any relief. The paint is spread in an even layer. It is versatile and suitable for any interior, including children's rooms and school classrooms. The cost of such paint is relatively low. It is suitable for artistic decoration - with its help you can create ornaments and drawings. But oil paint for heating radiators dries rather slowly, because it contains a solvent.

Enamel for radiators

Alkyd enamel

Modern alkyd paints have undeniable advantages. They are characterized by increased strength and heat resistance. The enamel layer does not crack at significant heating up to 12 degrees. The paint is very uniform and forms a smooth surface. It holds well and does not lend itself to abrasion. It is produced in a wide range of color options, which provides excellent opportunities for creative interior decor. This paint is durable.

Alkyd enamel

Acrylic enamel

Enamels of this type are devoid of a specific odor, so they are comfortable to paint batteries in any room. Another convenience of acrylic composition is that it dries quickly. Resistance to moisture allows the use of these formulations in showers, saunas. Acrylic paint for heating radiators is evenly distributed over the painted surface and does not harm human health. The presence of special additives prevents cracking and discoloration of the composition even after prolonged heating of the battery. A significant advantage of acrylic paints is their wide range of colors. This is highly appreciated by interior designers.The disadvantages of acrylic include its price. However, this is not an overpayment, but a long-term investment in quality.

Acrylic enamel

Water based enamel

An excellent means for painting heating system radiators is water-dispersion paint, which does not have a characteristic odor. Pure water is used as a solvent for it. This means complete safety for the health of the inhabitants of the premises, as well as for the environmental situation. Dispersed particles in this paint also do not pose the slightest health hazard. The paint is devoid of a characteristic chemical odor, and it dries quickly enough. The coloring composition is evenly distributed over the surface. Painted batteries and radiators can be washed as the paint is water resistant. Acrylic paints are applicable without restrictions in almost any residential, office and non-residential premises. Their disadvantage is the limited choice of colors, since standard acrylic paint is white.

Water-dispersive enamel

Preparing radiators for painting

Now let's figure out how to prepare and how to paint cast-iron radiators with our own hands. Preparation is required for quality painting and takes even longer than painting itself.

How do I clean old paint from a battery? Prepare radiators in this way:

1. Start with a high-quality surface cleaning before painting. To do this, you need to remove the paint layer, and clean up the places with the emerging corrosion to a metallic sheen. Dust and dirt are removed with a damp cloth, old paint is removed with a spatula and special cleaning solutions.
2. Radiators are painted with rinsing solution, which are later covered with a softening film. Then this paint can be easily removed with a spatula, a grinding machine or a metal brush that is put on a drill.
3. It is recommended to wear construction gloves on your hands, protect the respiratory tract with a respirator or gauze bandage.
4. Then the surface of the radiator is cleaned with sandpaper, degreased with some weak alkali solution.
5. An anti-corrosion primer is applied to a high-quality cleaned surface. The solution will also increase the adhesion of the paint to the body of the heating structure. For this, an alkyd-based primer is best suited.

Now you know in general terms how to manually clean old paint from a battery. Remember that the primer must have anti-corrosion properties (information about this can usually be read on the can), otherwise, after a certain time, rust will again make itself felt. On a high-quality cleaned surface, the coloring solution will fall as needed.

To prepare everything qualitatively for painting, you need to remove the old paint from the battery, remove rust, remove dust and dirt.

Currently, the construction market offers a large selection of paint solutions that already contain a primer and a rust converter. Their advantage is that their application to radiators does not require preliminary preparation of the base.

Stages of painting radiators

As with any repair process, the painting of heating radiators is divided into several stages.

Preparation for painting

Preparatory stage

Attention! Experts assure that the preparation stage takes longer than the main stage of painting. With this in mind, it is necessary to approach both stages more carefully.

So, the diagram of the preparatory stage:

• It is necessary to completely remove the old paint from the heater. This can be done in a variety of ways. For example, use a thinner or just work with a spatula.
• The battery must be cleaned from dirt and dust. To do this, you can simply wash it with water.
• They fight rust with sandpaper, and grease stains with a slightly alkaline mixture or white spirit.
• In addition, it is recommended to walk over the entire surface of the device with sandpaper, giving it a metallic sheen.
• After that, all surfaces of the radiator are covered with a primer. We recommend using an acrylic-based anti-corrosion primer. It not only protects the device from corrosion, but also creates a layer with good adhesion on its surface.

I would like to dwell on the process of removing paint in more detail. To do this, the battery is coated with a solvent using an ordinary brush. The tool needs to get to all parts of the device, leaving no open space. After that, the heating radiator is covered with plastic wrap and left in this form for several hours. It is necessary that the chemical solution penetrates into all corners, dissolving the paint and varnish material. Then the film is removed and a spatula is used (metal brush, drill with a special attachment). The paint layer will peel off easily, so there will be no problem with it.

Note that a solvent is a reactive chemical. So the precautions of working with it will not hurt you. Wear gloves, a gauze bandage, or a respirator on your face.

And one more very important information. Today, manufacturers of paints and varnishes began to offer paints for heating radiators, which include both anti-corrosion additives and a primer. The convenience of their use lies in the fact that this type is applied directly to the cleaned metal surface.

We paint the radiator

Painting process

How to paint heating batteries with your own hands with high quality? It is worth saying that the process should be carried out with the heating turned off, otherwise in some areas the paint will dry very quickly, lie unevenly, form smudges that will look unattractive. Of course, you can buy a special dye solution that is used on warm batteries, however, it can lie unevenly if the heating is not turned off.

And yet, if you are not afraid of trouble and are looking for what paint can be used to paint hot radiators, then there is always a choice of solution. You can consider paint for yourself, for example, from Radikor. The coloring solution is applied to structures heated to +60 ° C, dries on hot heaters in less than one hour.

Now radiators are painted in colors that best match the overall interior design of the rooms.

When there is no other possibility, but it is necessary to paint the heating battery during the heating season, then you should at least shut off the supply of warm water yourself or call the housing office with this request. The temperature heating of batteries in this way can be significantly reduced.

You have decided on the dye solution, figured out how to remove the old paint from the radiators, now is the time to start the dyeing process:

1. First of all, you should think about the safety of the flooring from dirt and the solution itself. You can put some kind of paper or fabric under the radiators.
2. Then you need to choose small brushes with soft bristles, one is straight, and the other is curved, for painting in hard-to-reach places.
3. It is worth starting to paint first the upper part of the radiator, then heading down. Painting is carried out from all sides: initially internal overlap, then external in order to avoid getting hands and clothes getting dirty.
4. Two color coats are applied alternately. Remember that two thin coats are better for paint than one thick one. Because only in this case, you can count on a uniform and high-quality coating.

You can also spray or spray the batteries.

When using heat-resistant paint from a spray can, the process will be more convenient and faster, the coloring agent will lie in a thin, smooth layer.

If you decide to use a spray gun for painting, then it is better to remove the heating radiator.This will allow better paint over all areas. Restoration with a spray can be carried out easily and with minimal time costs. As a rule, instructions for using the can is given on the label. The main rule is to perform zigzag movements up and down at a distance of approximately 30 cm from the surface of the body.

Features of paint application

Applying one or another type of paint to radiators is not an easy job, as a person who is far from understanding the technology of painting work might think. Indeed, the reliability of the coating and its durability will depend on how correctly all the stages of painting were followed.

Preparatory stage

Painting with acrylic paint
Preparing radiators for painting is the most important and the first stage, on which the final result largely depends. First, you must thoroughly wash the heater using a special spray bottle with washing liquid, a soft cloth and a brush for this purpose. Even new batteries need preliminary preparation, since even the highest quality paints without their characteristic odor should lie on the surface smoothly and evenly. Next, it is necessary to degrease the devices, and also to clean them with sandpaper to remove various irregularities on their surfaces and better adhere to the paint.

Before applying the coloring composition, you should remove the old coating layer, and also treat the places prone to corrosion with special compounds.

Preparation of tools and materials

Before removing the old paint layer and applying a new coating, you need to take care of having the necessary tools and abrasives at hand:

• Brushes.
• Drill brushes.
• Sandpaper used to remove old paint.
• Degreasing composition.
• Primers with metal corrosion protection components.
• Abrasive - for removing thick layers of old coating.

Features of applying paint to radiators

Acrylic enamel for radiators
In order for the final result to be as you expect, you should not only choose the right paint, carefully carry out all the preparatory work, but also apply a new composition, according to the rules:

• All restoration and painting work should be carried out during the heating shutdown period in order to avoid streaks and ugly stains.
• It is important to apply paint from top to bottom so that the occasional drips that may appear do not spoil the already treated surface. Cover the batteries completely, including the back and the inside. In order to paint hard-to-reach places, there are special battery brushes that have a curved shape. It is most efficient to process the device in two thin layers to avoid unevenness. But at the same time it is necessary to wait until the first applied layer is completely dry. And only after that you can apply the next layer of the coloring composition.
• The aesthetics of the battery will depend on how carefully the paint, oil or any other is used. For convenience, cans, special rollers and brushes are very often used. It is recommended to start the process from the most inaccessible places, applying the composition evenly.
• If the technical parameters of the radiator allow you to remove it from the hinges and cover it completely with paint, then this will be the best option.

When carrying out painting work in the summer, it is necessary to keep the windows open in order to protect yourself from the negative effects of the coloring compositions. In addition, you need to use respirators and gloves so that after finishing work on painting batteries, you do not spoil the skin of your hands with various solvents, wiping off paint stains.

Should you paint aluminum radiators?

All of the above information with recommendations related to painting radiators made of cast iron, copper, steel.The question arises: how is the painting of aluminum heating batteries carried out? And here is the second question: is it really necessary to do this? Currently, aluminum devices are painted in factories by professionals with a special powder paint. Home restoration will not provide a reliable, beautiful finish.

In addition, if the battery still has a warranty, then after painting the manufacturer's warranty will not be valid. However, rarely would anyone think of painting a new structure. When the device is damaged during transportation or installation, cracks and chips appear on it, which significantly spoil the appearance. In this case, you can apply auto enamel.

It is worth saying that car enamel fits well and dries quickly only on warm batteries. The drying time at 130 ° C is 20 minutes, and at 20 ° C - two days. It is worth working in a respirator, the room should be well ventilated, paint should be sprayed at a distance of 30 cm from the surface. Do not keep the jet in one place for a long time to avoid smudges.

Radiators made of aluminum or structures made of bimetal, where the outer part of the case is aluminum, it is almost impossible to paint the houses yourself.

You can also remove chips and dents from an aluminum battery using automotive putty. To do this, it is necessary to degrease the surface in advance, treat it with a primer. Then apply with a brush the putty of the required color. Do you want to completely change the color of the radiator? It is powerful to paint a radiator over old paint. It is necessary to degrease and prime the surface, apply two layers of paint. You can paint batteries with water-based paint and alkyd paint from a spray bottle.

How to choose the right radiator paint

Today the market of paints and varnishes is replete with options from a variety of brands, paints of all price categories and consumer characteristics. As a result, choosing the perfect product is not an easy task. It follows from this that in the selection process, close attention should be paid to the following criteria:

1. How evenly the paint is distributed over the metal and polymer surfaces;
2. Is it able to provide protection against rust and corrosion;
3. How the coloring composition tolerates high temperatures, as well as temperature extremes;
4. How long the fresh and bright color of the paint lasts.

Pay attention to: Consumption of water-based paint per 1 m2 of wall for 2 times: type of paint and calculation rules for different surfaces

An important factor is also the material from which the painted surface is made. It can be steel, cast iron, duralumin and various alloys. Experts recommend adhering to certain rules in this regard:

• for aluminum, steel and bimetallic radiators, it is better to take acrylic and alkyd paint compositions. It is better to paint heating pipes with them;
• cast iron batteries are preferable to be treated with any paints, except for oil grades. But to ensure a uniform and aesthetic surface layer, it is recommended to add a thinner to the paint;
• in general, experts do not advise using oil-based paints, even from reputable manufacturers, since oil paint is not the best protection and decorative layer for a radiator.

  

Why is paint swelling on a heating radiator?

If bubbles appear on the radiator, this means that in some places there is no adhesion of the coloring material to the body, the film of the solution lags behind the surface and forms a swelling.

Possible reasons:

• an alkyd or oil battery paint was applied to a wet surface;
• moisture has entered through the outer wall;
• the application technique is incorrectly selected;
• for painting, tools that were not suitable for the purpose were used.

How to solve this problem:

1. Grind the surface at the place of the bulge, treat it again with a putty, re-grind and repaint with a high-quality dye solution.
2. If the imperfections are visible on the entire surface, then it is required to remove the source of moisture (if possible), then clean, prime and repaint the case.

Radiator paints

Technical requirements

In order for the paint to protect the heating radiator from damage, and also to retain its original appearance for a long time, it must meet the following requirements:

• Intended for painting metal,
• Protect against corrosion,
• Resistant to abrasion and cracking,
• Be heat-resistant (when using water as a heat carrier, maintain a temperature of at least 100 0C).

In addition, it must be non-toxic (without impurities harmful to humans).

Battery painting

Different types of paint

The heating radiator can be painted:

• Enamel. Enamels are inexpensive and have a wide range of colors to your choice, but they do not tolerate high temperatures and reduce the heat transfer of the device. They dry for a long time, smell unpleasant and they can only be painted on a cold radiator.
• Acrylic dyes. They are odorless and dry quickly; they can even be applied to a hot radiator. They do not last long, as they have a low coefficient of adhesion to the painted surface and may crumble over time. After drying, they change color slightly.
• Alkyd paint. Heat-resistant, fits well on the surface, but dries for a long time and smells unpleasant.
• Special paint for radiators. It tolerates any rise in temperature, so it can be used to paint even hot heating elements. Dries quickly, does not reduce the heat transfer of the device and does not turn yellow over time. It is produced in a limited range of colors and is more expensive than other types.

Special heat-resistant enamel

Interesting! The color of paint for radiators can be any - light or dark, suitable for the design of the room. But experience shows that for better heat dissipation, it is better to use dark shades.

The main varieties of paints for radiators

The modern market offers the following interior paints:

1. Quick-drying nitro enamels were once very popular, but they have a persistent, pungent odor. It was possible to use them for painting batteries at the stage of repair, when no one lives in the room temporarily. Now there are similar enamels with a less unpleasant odor.
2. Linseed oil paints are also a thing of the past, although they were the most popular for any work inside the house. Their disadvantage is the loss of external qualities, they turn yellow, crack and lose their luster.
3. Alkyd enamels with improved properties are quite acceptable paints for radiators, heat-resistant, but not odorless. Excellent adhesion to metal surfaces, especially on primers. Forms a smooth semi-glossy surface. The white spirit included in their composition does not evaporate for so long, it has a specific smell that can occur with a sharp jump in temperature.
4. Acrylic-based enamels (acrylic and acrylate) are most applicable in the repair of communications and heating radiators. When cured, the surface of the battery resembles smooth plastic, which looks great after replacing the windows. They do not have the specific smell that other proposals for paints and varnishes have.

   

   The easiest way is to paint the radiator in steel color, it suits most interiors

Attention! When buying paint, it is worth checking the instructions on the label for temperature indicators and the possibility of using it for batteries, so that you do not have to "sniff" and look for the source of the smell during the heating season!

Preparing the radiator for painting

Before painting heating devices, they must be prepared accordingly:

1. Remove dust, dirt and grease.
2. Remove old paint layers.This must be done, since each new layer reduces the heat transfer of heating and lies on top of the previous layers ugly. It can be done:
   mechanically using metal brushes and sandpaper,
3. chemically using solvents or fatty acids, observing safety precautions.
4. Apply a layer of special anti-corrosion primer.

Attention! The primer should be selected to match the type of paint you choose. In this case, it is better to choose paint and primer from the same manufacturer.

Painting devices from different materials

Heating batteries made of different materials have their own painting characteristics:

• For coloring cast iron, you can use universal enamels. Before painting cast-iron batteries, it is better to turn off the heating. Paint dries faster on hot surfaces and may wrinkle and form uneven spots. If it is impossible to turn off the painting on the radiator is applied in a thinner layer.
• Steel, aluminum and bimetallic batteries are manufactured with an already applied layer of factory powder coating, so painting them at home is quite problematic. Before painting such a radiator, you need to carefully clean it with a grinder. For painting it is better to use alkyd enamel or acrylic (acrylate).

Painting cast iron appliances

Remember! For cleaning non-ferrous metals from old paint layers, it is better to use a mechanical rather than chemical method. Chemical solutions can react undesirably with the radiator surface.

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What paint to choose for radiators

When choosing a paint, it is necessary to take into account the surface on which it will be applied.
Painting radiators is necessary to create an air- and moisture-proof layer on the metal surface so that oxygen and occasional drops of water do not cause corrosion. Different paints cope with this task in different ways. It should also be taken into account that the batteries are hot in working order - not all compositions are capable of withstanding high temperatures for a long time, and painting them every year is unprofitable and time-consuming.

When selecting paints and varnishes, the surface on which the coating will be applied is taken into account. Stainless steel and aluminum are materials that do not corrode, so products made from these metals have a long service life. The only question is with painting, since any composition will not last long - it will peel off due to low adhesion (adhesion) to the metal surface. This happens because an oxide film forms on the surface (in aluminum radiators, for sure), which rejects ordinary paint. In order to properly coat aluminum, you need a different primer and special paints.

The paint for radiators must be non-toxic, within the heat resistance range of 80-100 degrees

General requirements for paints and varnishes:

• heat resistance within 80 - 100 degrees;
• non-toxic - no harmful volatile compounds should be released when heated;
• moisture resistance, since the radiators will be wiped with a damp cloth from dust;
• abrasion resistance;
• the composition should dry quickly and form a resistant film on the metal.

If you neglect the requirements of heat resistance, such a coating will quickly turn yellow or peel off. Both the pigments and the bonding material must withstand high temperatures.

If the paint is very shiny after coating the batteries, it will highlight all the irregularities that are not uncommon on cast iron products. Therefore, it is advisable to choose a paintwork with a matte shade that will not create glare. At the same time, rubbing irregularities on cast iron is highly discouraged, as this leads to abrasion of the metal and the appearance of a leak.

The faster the paint dries, the stronger the smell it exudes in this short period of time, therefore it is undesirable to work indoors - you should open windows or vents, use a respirator for construction work.

Do not use pentaphthalic compounds for painting batteries, for internal work on a water basis, nitrocellulose.

Acrylic

Acrylic paint for radiators is the most optimal and reliable option. It dries quickly and does not emit strong odors. The coating on the batteries lasts a long time and does not change color when exposed to heat. To do this, you need to buy formulations marked "for radiators".

Acrylic enamel for radiators is usually sold in white. To give any shade, it must be tinted - add the desired pigment. You can mix and match the composition on a special paint mixing machine in the supermarket. The plus is that if you need a little more of the same composition, the device remembers how much enamel and powder you need to add to get the same shade.

Water-based

It is not recommended to cover batteries with water-based paint, as it is not durable and will last for a year or two at best. If you count on long-term operation, you need to select something more durable.

Alkyd

Alkyd paint with titanium beryl or silicone is considered very resistant and can withstand temperatures up to 600 degrees. It is used for painting all heated surfaces - radiators, stoves, fireplaces, chimneys.

It is necessary to work with alkyd paint in a well-ventilated area, since when it dries, toxic substances are released that can lead to poisoning. After drying, the coating is not dangerous.

Oil

Oil paints are resistant to mechanical stress and abrasion, but they do not withstand high temperatures, so they are not recommended for use as a coating for batteries. Especially if the radiators warm up well in winter.

Such a coating dries for a long time, therefore it is impossible to carry out work in a closed room with a working radiator. Heat transfer is reduced, as the layer of oil paint is 1 - 2 mm. It will not work to save on heat carriers.

Oil solutions are composed of organic substances, so they quickly change color - white batteries turn yellow or gray. The radiators will have to be repainted due to cracks and colors every 2 to 3 years. If you save money and buy a non-heat-resistant oil paint, it will crack in a year.

Serebryanka

A mixture of aluminum powder, bitumen varnish and thinner - silver paint. If it is not necessary to use white, at home you can prepare a composition from purchased components that will withstand temperatures up to 400 degrees. This is often done to cover batteries located in utility rooms - sheds, garages.

It is better not to buy ready-made silverware - it does not differ in heat resistance. You need to take separately bituminous varnish 577 brands and PAP-1 - aluminum powder, mix them and paint.

Types of paints

It is wrong to think that a radiator for heating can be coated with any paint with a high quality indicator or significant cost. So, before it was often used precisely oil or aluminum paint for heating radiators. Considering them the best suitable option for this device, use was ubiquitous.

It is unacceptable to paint radiators using such substances in these conditions, since their function does not imply protection of the metal surface at high temperatures. Thus, the paint on radiators quickly fades, cracks and even peels off, requiring re-processing.

Imperfect options were replaced by paints more suitable for thermal elements. The best options are the following types of enamel:

• Alkyd.This composition can be used at temperatures no higher than 150 degrees. When the temperature rises, the color gamut does not change in any way. The paint has an unpleasant odor, which disappears after one week after dyeing. The cost is quite high.

• Acrylic paint for radiators. It is an odorless paint that can withstand approximately 80 degrees. Only white paint is on sale, to which a dye is added. Affordable price and availability of the product often take it to the first place.

• Silicone-aluminum. Long-term use can be up to five years without re-coating. The range of temperature conditions reaches 500 degrees. The elasticity and adaptability of the composition to thermal expansion and contraction make the enamel practically invulnerable. The cost of such a substance is quite high, while an unpleasant odor is observed, which is retained for a long time. Such analogs dry quickly.

• Aluminum with heat-resistant varnish. The people call this paint silver. Used at a maximum temperature of 200 degrees. It should be applied only to a prepared heater and preferably used in non-residential premises. The composition contains many variations of petroleum products, which makes the enamel environmentally friendly. It smells unpleasant and takes a long time. The cost is moderate, the availability is wide.

The advantage of such paints and varnishes in comparison with standard options is obvious. The paint for heating radiators cannot be completely odorless, but there are other positive characteristics.

The above listed compositions are resistant to thermal influences, wear-resistant during operation and do not have a persistent unpleasant odor.

Radiator paint requirements

To begin with, heating radiators are devices that emit a fairly high thermal energy. Hence the basic requirements for paint:

1. Increased heat resistance. Experts recommend paints that can withstand temperatures not lower than + 100C.
2. High resistance to various aggressive environments.
3. Abrasion resistance.
4. Safety in terms of impact on the human body. Simply, the complete absence of toxicity.

So, back to the question: what paint to paint the radiators? Manufacturers currently offer three main types.

1. Acrylic based enamels. This type is made on the basis of organic solvents. That is why, when painting, a peculiar pungent smell is released from the paint, which quickly evaporates. But the end result is a strong glossy film on the metal surface. This paint lasts a very long time.
2. Alkyd type enamels. It is the most common type of radiator paint and is used by a large number of consumers. Its advantages are resistance to abrasion and very high temperatures. Let's add that this view has a huge color palette. True, when stained, a strong odor is emitted, which lasts for several days. Some of the alkyd paints emit a slight odor when heated, so it is worthwhile to use the recommendations of specialists when buying.
3. Water-dispersive species. All experts agree that these paints are the best choice. Firstly, they do not exude odors, and secondly, they dry quickly. The only thing you need to pay attention to when buying a label. On the label of the jar there must be an inscription "for painting heating batteries".

I would not like to bypass oil paints. More recently, radiators were most often painted with them. But their popularity is in the past due to low quality characteristics.

As you can see, the assortment is not that small, but each consumer decides for himself what to choose. After all, each species has its own advantages and disadvantages.

What paint is better to choose

The aesthetic appearance of a radiator will largely depend not only on the cost of the chosen paintwork, but also on the compatibility with the material of the radiator itself, as well as on the features of its design. What paint to paint? For primary staining, it is better to use glossy options. It is matte paint for painting heating batteries of a repeated type that is used - its base will hide all the irregularities and imperfections of the radiator.

Consider examples of coloring different types of radiators in accordance with their characteristics:

• Paint for cast-iron heating radiators has many nuances when painting, which relate to irregularities and not quite aesthetic joints, seams. In most cases, even matte paint does not hide all the nuances. The only correct solution would be to use colored paint that repeats the shade of the interior design of the walls. If there is a need to paint the battery exactly in light colors, then the base of the device is pre-filled.

• It is better to paint aluminum and bimetallic radiators with powder paints, but not white. The downside is that processing at home is almost impossible. First, you need special tools. Secondly, in order to perform high-quality staining, special skills are needed.

• Spray paints, that is, paints in spray cans, are the most popular at the present stage. This feature is inherent in the fact that the method of applying the product to the surface is the simplest. The main thing is to cover the wall with some material so that it does not get dirty. It is often necessary to apply at least two coats to level the surface. It is a quick drying option.

It is better to seek the help of a specialist when choosing a paint. The seller will be able to tell you which paint is best correlated with a particular type of radiator. It is necessary to take into account the preferences that relate to the design of the interior design.

Often, several types of paints can be used to create a visual combination in relation to tone or color. It makes no sense to single out any one section of the battery.

Odorless radiator paint

These are odorless water-based acrylic paints / enamels. Rather, the smell is present, but not pronounced, and different from the one to which we are accustomed. But you only need to buy a special composition for radiators (or in the field of application it should be indicated that it is suitable for painting pipes and radiators, and also the temperature regime should be indicated) and nothing else.

You can even paint new batteries - if the color doesn't suit you

The advantages include a high drying rate, as well as ease of application - they lie flat, do not turn yellow and do not crack, since the coating is elastic. There are glossy and semi-glossy types.

All water-based paints necessarily require a preliminary priming of the surface primer. If you apply it on "clean" metal, rust will "come out" very quickly.

A good paint of this type is Master Lux Aqua 40 Dulux, it costs about 2,000 rubles for a can of 2.5 kg. For the first layer, dilute with water 1 * 10 (one part of water for 10 parts of paint). All subsequent layers do not require dilution.

Element (Eskaro), Aqua-Heizkorperlack (Dufa) also performed well, there are odorless acrylics "Composite", "Dufa" - "DufaRetail" Thermo, Triora, etc.

You can use spray paints. With a certain skill, they are applied evenly, but before work you need to close everything around with old wallpaper or newspapers

Read how to prepare the radiator surface for painting here.

Preparatory work

After the choice of paint for the radiator is made in accordance with the requirements for the composition and functional features of the product, you can proceed to the preparatory stage. It consists of the following actions:

1. First, it is worth treating the surface of the radiator.Secondary painting is usually done, so it is important to accurately assess the condition of the radiator before processing. If at least five layers of paint have already been applied to the battery, then it is better to remove the excess with the help of mechanized cleaning.

2. If the previously applied layers are severely damaged, if the paint is cracked or peeling, it must be completely removed to the very base of the metal. For this, special machines or chemical flushing agents are used. This procedure should be done especially well.

3. In the case when there are no more than three layers, it is enough to process the surface with emery paper. It is worth choosing a fine-grained one. All streaks and drops that have formed as a result of preliminary staining are preliminarily cut off. It is necessary that the surface is smooth, without the slightest roughness.

4. After sanding, processing is carried out with chemical agents that degrease the surface. This can be done with acetone or solvent. Often this work requires several degrees of processing. Only then is the enamel applied to the surface.

Varieties of paints

The construction market today offers many product options. Taking into account the previously indicated parameters will allow you to choose a suitable paint for radiators. Its cost is higher than the price of conventional materials, but it will pay off due to the durability of the resulting coating.

1. Acrylic enamels. They are based on organic solvents, which determines the presence of a specific odor during the painting process. But it quickly disappears. The result of the work will be a glossy surface. Acrylic battery paint is highly durable.

There are acrylate enamels that practically do not emit odor, since they are water-based. However, it is necessary to choose exactly the paint for the radiators. Recommended materials: "Expert", VD-AK-1179, "Thermacrill" from Alp-Enamel.

2. Alkyd enamels. Their advantages include good thermal and wear resistance, a wide variety of colors. Like the first group, they differ in their constituent basis. If the base is an organic solvent, then the paintwork materials will be characterized by a strong odor. Moreover, with the beginning of the heating period, it can appear again even in completely dried up batteries. Samples of materials include PF-115, "Pesto".

3. Organosilicon enamels will create a matte finish. This heat-resistant paint for batteries can withstand temperatures in excess of 500 ° C, has excellent adhesion and moisture resistance, and provides anti-corrosion protection for metal products. There is an opportunity to buy products in aerosols. It is easier to apply. The disadvantage is the modest selection of shades. You can buy Celsit-500.

4. Water-dispersion compositions. The main advantage is this type of odorless paints for heating radiators. Again, when purchasing the material, you should make sure that it is intended for batteries. You can tint "water dispersion" in any color. While batteries were traditionally white in the past, darker shades have been shown to provide better heat dissipation. Another plus is that it dries quickly. Quite good products: Dufa Aqua-Enamel, Halo.

5. Oil. At the moment, it has practically gone out of use due to the prevailing disadvantages: strong odor, long drying period, low thermal stability, deterioration of heat transfer. In addition, it cracks when exposed to high temperatures.

6. Powder coating. It can be applied to aluminum, bimetallic, cast iron batteries. It is very difficult to independently create the proper conditions for its correct application. Special expensive equipment is required here. Therefore, if we have already settled on this type of coating, it would be good to entrust the work to professionals. But the result is sure to please.