When you remodel or redecorate an old house, you may find that you need to repaint your old radiators so that they stay with the theme of the room. Do this enough times, though, and your radiator will become caked with multiple layers of paint. However, stripping the paint off an old radiator is a big job, and it requires the use of some heavy duty equipment as well as some harsh chemicals. For all but the most dedicated do it yourself gurus, the only practical way of getting that radiator properly stripped so that it can be repainted is to send it off to a professional. The stripping company will set to work on your radiator as soon as they receive it. The first order of business is soaking it in a caustic soda bath. This happens in a heated tank for maximum penetration.
After this, the radiator is rinsed in water and then set out to dry. Once all of the water has dried, the radiator can be refinished and repainted according to your specifications, or it can be sent back to your house as where you can do the rest of the work. However, when the layers of paint are really building up on your radiator, it is worth asking yourself how much more use you can really get out of this old appliance. Newer radiators are more efficient and are capable of heating your living space without contributing to such a large chunk of your utility bill. It's also possible to buy innovative radiators that serve other purposes. For example, an old bathroom radiator could be replaced with towel rails that go beyond merely keeping the bathroom warm. They also double as drying racks, leaving cloth crisp and dry - ready for the next shower in no time. Furthermore, the newest line of designer radiators available on the Internet is much cheaper than they were a few years back.
Before sending off your outdated model to have it stripped and repainted, it is definitely worth considering how much more it would cost you to simply invest in a new model. Do not forget to take utility savings into account, as a new model can sometimes pay itself off in a few short months. There is no denying the fact that heating bills are higher now than they have ever been, thanks to the soaring cost of natural gas and electricity. This fact combined with the notorious inefficiency of older radiators builds a strong argument against going to the trouble stripping an old radiator. However, there are times when a vintage room can be made even more attractive with a well painted radiator. In some cases, home owners will strip and repaint their old radiators simply for its aesthetic appeal, while also installing a new designer model that is actual doing the work of heating the room. This is the best of both worlds, as it lets you hang onto an heirloom without denying yourself the satisfaction that goes with purchasing modern technology.