Radiator painting in Warsaw — refreshing heaters without removal

A peeling radiator can ruin the look of an entire room — no matter how fresh the surrounding renovation is. Replacing a heater just for appearance is expensive and often unnecessary. Painting solves the problem in a single visit: the technician strips the old coating, primes the surface, and applies heat-resistant enamel. The radiator looks brand new. We work across Warsaw — from Śródmieście to Kabaty.

How much does it cost and what affects the price

Current prices are in the table below. The cost depends on the radiator type (cast iron sectional takes longer than steel panel), the number of sections, and the condition of the old coating. If several layers of old paint need stripping — that is separate work. Paint and primer are charged separately; tools are included.

How the on-site work goes

1. The technician inspects the radiator: type (cast iron, steel, aluminium, bimetal), coating condition, rust levels.
2. Old paint is stripped — with a wire brush, sandpaper, or chemical remover. Bubbled and flaking areas are fully cleared.
3. Rust is cleaned down to bare metal. Pitting is filled with metal filler.
4. The radiator and surrounding area are protected — wall behind, floor, connecting pipes.
5. An anti-corrosion metal primer is applied.
6. First coat of heat-resistant enamel — by brush or mini roller. Between sections — with an angled brush.
7. After drying (4–6 hours) — second coat. Side-light check for drips.

Common mistakes when painting radiators (and how to avoid them)

• Painting a hot radiator — the paint dries instantly, goes on in streaks, and the smell fills the entire flat.
• Using standard emulsion paint — within a month it yellows and starts peeling from the heat.
• Not stripping old paint — the new coat over bubbles will come off along with them.
• Spray-painting without preparation — aerosol drifts onto walls, furniture, and floors. Without proper prep it won’t last.
• Applying one thick coat — drips on the sections, slow drying, uneven colour.
• Forgetting the back side — visible from an angle, and usually the worst-looking area.

What to prepare before the technician arrives

• Turn off the heating or wait for the end of the season — the radiator must be cold.
• Move furniture at least a metre away from the radiator.
• Remove curtains and the curtain rod if they block access.
• Clear the windowsill.
• Choose a colour: white is classic, but you can match the wall colour or go with a contrast.
• For cast iron sectional radiators — decide whether to paint between sections (the hardest part).
• Ensure ventilation — open a window.
• Remove pets from the room during the work.
• Provide access details: intercom, parking.

A real case from Warsaw

A flat in Wilanów, a building from the early 2000s — two steel panel radiators in the living room. The paint had yellowed and started flaking at the edges, exposing small rust spots underneath. The technician sanded both radiators, treated the rust patches with a converter, and applied an anti-corrosion primer. Two coats of anthracite-grey heat-resistant enamel followed — the owners wanted the radiators to match their modern interior rather than the standard white. The whole job took half a day. The result was crisp, even coverage that turned the radiators from an eyesore into a deliberate design element. The owners said the dark grey looked so good that guests assumed the radiators were new designer units.

Frequently asked questions

Can you paint a hot radiator?
It is not recommended. On a hot surface the paint dries too fast, goes on unevenly, and the smell is much stronger. It is best to paint outside the heating season.

What paint is suitable for radiators?
Heat-resistant alkyd or acrylic enamel (rated to +120°C). Standard paint will yellow and crack.

Does the radiator need to be removed for painting?
Usually not. The technician paints it in place, including the back and the gaps between sections. Removal is only needed if the radiator is heavily corroded on all sides.

How long does radiator paint take to dry?
First coat — 4–6 hours. Full cure — 24 hours. It is best to wait a full day before turning the heating back on.

Cast iron or steel — is there a difference?
Cast iron sectional radiators take longer due to the relief and gaps. Steel panel radiators are quicker and simpler.

Can I paint a radiator black or another dark colour?
Yes, dark radiators are on trend right now. A dark surface even radiates heat slightly better.

Who does the work

Radiator painting is carried out by painters experienced in metalwork. We know the specifics of every radiator type. We cover all of Warsaw — call or message us, we’ll assess the scope and find a date outside the heating season.