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We cannot overemphasise the importance of column covers in safeguarding people and pets from burns due to contact with a hot radiator. However, a bare cast-iron column radiator hardly impresses the neighbours and guests, and will turn out to be an eyesore in the long run. The solution – custom column covers that complements the design of your living space.
Customised column covers abound just about everywhere radiators are used. Make a quick search online and you would get thousands of websites providing all sorts of bespoke services for column radiators. But before you follow the urge to buy that handsome piece of solid birch radiator cabinet, here are a few items to take in consideration first.
TAKE THE RIGHT MEASUREMENTS
It is probably always advantageous to adopt the services of providers who would take the measurements for you. Nevertheless, knowing how to take measurements properly yourselves ensures that you won’t be short-changed by shabby work, in case the bloke who would do your radiator measurements happens to be having a bad day.
Keep in mind that measurements are taken for the inside dimensions of the column covers, and not for the outer edges. For the length, measure the entire length of the radiator including the pipes and add one inch (L plus 1”) to that measure.
For the width, start measuring from the spot where the floor meets the wall or that of any existing mouldings up to the front edge of the radiator. Take several measurements at both ends and at any section in between that may be extending forward. Then take the longest measurement you have and add half-an-inch to that (W plus ½”).
Finally, for the height, the exact measure from the floor to the topmost edge of the radiator is taken.
DESIGN OPTIONS
Design considerations for column covers really depend on your imagination and whether your hired bespoke service can execute your vision. You have the option to make your covers blend into your overall interior motif or, as an alternative, make it such that your column covers serve as a centrepiece for the room.