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Radiator covers come in a wide variety of colours, shapes and sizes. Some are pre-built, many are designer installations, others are made-to-measure, and still others come as self-assembly packs. There are radiator covers that have a vintage charm, whilst others showcase a modern look or are otherwise designed as works of art.
Be that as it may, the most important thing is that radiator covers are in place for the optimal heating of your residence and for safeguarding your family from radiator burns. If you are looking to install new radiator covers, here are some safe and sightly selections for you to choose from.
HARDWOOD COVERS
Wood provides that classical look for homes. It has that lasting appeal about it that complements almost any sort of domicile. Hardwood radiator covers are as much an article of furniture as a side table or a bookcase. In fact, it is not uncommon for hardwood enclosures to be affixed with cabinet drawers and shelves to extend their purpose as space savers. As such, they are mostly more pricey than others. Not only do they lend elegance to your interiors, hardwood is also more durable than the veneered particle wood types.
There are plenty of makers who provide standard-sized and custom hardwood covers for your radiators. Oak is a common selection and preferred for its traditional home style. Birch, Pine, Beech, Maple and Mahogany are also used as hardwood radiator covers. Cherry wood are also available and are likely to be the more expensive choice amongst the hardwood variety.
Hardwood covers should be lined inside with heat insulation to maximise the heat that circulates off the radiator and to prevent warping to the wood. Make sure that there is adequate space at the bottom for the proper flow of air. Also see to it that the front slats, grilles or screens allow heated air to properly reach the target space of the interior.
METAL COVERS
Most metal radiator covers come in steel or aluminium as these are more easily constructed. Metal covers are lightweight but strong and protect your radiator from damage due to accidental impacts. Some manufacturers use reflective linings to direct heat forward for maximum efficiency. Because of the malleable property of metal, the grille designs that come with metal radiator covers can be quite intricate. Bespoke services for metal covers abound and are significantly less expensive than custom hardwood radiator guards. Metals may be easily painted according to the colour scheme of your interior.
MDF COVERS
Much of the pre-fabricated, do-it-yourself and made-to-measure variety of radiator covers is usually made from medium density fibreboards (MDF). These are easy to assemble and cheap. However, they are quite flexible in that they can come in different types of finish. They may be lined in wood veneer or a suitable laminate. Alternately, MDF radiator covers may be paint-grade or stain-grade and be applied a suitable finish in the desired colour or stain.
LST COVERS
LST stands for Low Surface Temperature and is the sought after solution for radiator coverings in schools, hospitals and care homes. They maintain an optimal heat output but keeps radiator covers cool to the touch. LST radiator covers are mostly made from a strong reinforced polymer though there are coated steel variants as well. LST covers usually come in a minimalist white modern design.