If you want the best heat conduction, a metal radiator frame is a good option for you. This is because metal takes over the radiator's heat, causing the metal itself to heat up and radiate this again. Besides heat conduction, each material also differs in possibilities in terms of colour and construction.
When looking at our three main points to think of when choosing a radiator cover, we can conclude there is one top pick: a metal radiator cover. This one scores best on heat conduction, easthetics, mounting and efficiency since it is easy to assemble, has lots of different colour options and is the best heat conductor.
Metal radiator covers may have a higher upfront cost, but their longevity and efficiency make them a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
Due to their nature, radiators can get extremely hot, and while adults know to be careful around them, children and pets don't. Therefore, radiator covers are a great way of preventing accidental burns or scalds from a hot radiator.
Using a glass radiator cover ensures that the heat generated by the radiator is directed into the room rather than being absorbed by walls or furniture, maximising its efficiency. These covers also prevent heat loss through walls and windows.
What is the best material for a radiator cover? The three most common options for radiator cover material are metal, wood and MDF. Covers made from MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) feature wood fibres from different kinds of wood pressed together with synthetic resin to form flat boards.
Benefits of glass radiators
No maintenance:Other than basic controls, glass radiators have few parts that need maintenance, saving you money and stress. Efficient heating:No heat is lost to the pipework or surrounding space. Instead, glass radiators offer a comfortable infrared heat with no wasted energy.
Of course, putting a solid object around your heat source will have an effect on the heat output as it acts as a barrier. However, a radiator cover will not block too much heat as long as your cover has gaps and slots for heat to escape, and warm the air up through convection.
Sometimes, if you want to skip the cover and simply draw the eye away from the radiator, a table or shelf also works.
For your radiator to be efficient with a cover you should ensure there is enough space between the radiator and the cover. The radiator cover should, if possible, be wider than the radiator by at least: 5cm in width. 3cm in height.
Measure the (A) height, (B) width and (C) depth of your installed radiator, including valves. (The measuring guide image will help you identify exactly what you need to measure). Pick your favourite radiator cover. Refer the dimension image for your selected radiator cover to check that it will fit.
Aluminium is a highly efficient, conductive material that will heat up very quickly after the central heating is turned on, giving you total control over your central heating system. Aluminium radiators can tick a lot of boxes for homeowners.
A radiator made from galvanised metal or steel offers better heat conduction and better air and heat circulation, balancing aesthetics and heating efficiency. One downside of a metal radiator cover is that, just like the metal in the radiator, it can become hot and cause burns. Engineered wood.
The material we use is 3/4” thick. The cover will be made with 1” clearance around the radiator on the inside of the radiator cover. If your radiator is under a window, you may want to extend the measurement to fit centered under the window.
Copper/Brass Radiators have been used for a long time. If you are going for a classic look, these radiators are a good choice. However, if you are going for performance, an Aluminum Radiator is what you want. Aluminum is stronger and lighter.
MDF is a great choice because it's affordable and stable, but you can use other materials for your radiator cover. Solid wood has a classic look but may be more prone to warping with temperature changes. Plywood is another option that's less expensive than solid wood, but often just as stable.
So a radiator cover very much can block heat by interrupting the flow of heat around a room. This loss of heat doesn't just hurt your toes, but your wallet too. When you use a radiator cover, you end up spending money on heating that you can't even feel.
A radiator cover with a reflective backing could actually increase the efficiency of how the heat is emitted around the room. Radiator reflector panels prevent heat from emitted from the back of the radiator being lost out of the wall behind it by reflecting it back into the room.
Because radiators only heat up to about 215 degrees, there's no risk of your cover catching on fire — unless you opt for a synthetic fabric, like polyester. Your best bet is to go with a wool blanket or 100% cotton sheets.
Correctly fitted curtains should not cover the top of the radiator, but should stop just below the window ledge. Of course, badly fitting, leaky windows won't help.
I grew up with radiators and wooden radiator covers. Wood burns at about 450 degrees fahrenheit, water boils at about 212 degrees; so steam heating of a radiator will not likely get high enough temperature to burn wood.
A shining silver surface is a good radiator of heat. The ability of a surface to radiate heat is determined by its emissivity. Emissivity is a measure of how effectively a surface can emit thermal radiation, and it ranges from 0 to 1.
Metal radiators are built to last longer and exchange heat more effectively than their plastic counterparts. If damaged, metal radiators can be fixed more easily as well. Metal can be bent or twisted back into shape, while plastic will need to be replaced.