do i need special paint for radiator pipework?

jemw

Hi Guys

I had four new rads installed a couple of weeks ago and wanted to paint the new copper pipework white. Do I need anything in particular, i.e. specialist? I already have emulsion, gloss and masonary (outdoor) paint.

Thanks
Jennie

keith969

You can buy radiator paint - supposed to withstand the temperature better without yellowing - from DIY shops. Or you could just use gloss as most people do...

latecomer

Or maybe consider chrome pipe covers?

oldsam

If you going to paint the copper pipework use a special paint which does not react with copper, contact Brewers the painters merchants they are on the web for nearest branch to you -this product will do radiators as well-

keith969

Gloss paint does not react with copper. At least for me, over the last 30 years...

skiTTish

Eggshell doesnt yellow like gloss does

andrew-b

I use a metal or multi-surface primer first then undercoat then topcoat (eggshell/satinwood/gloss). I usually rub the pipes first with a bit of wire wool or sandpaper, wipe over and dry then paint. Gentle sand down with "between coats" sandpaper and clean up between each coat.

keystone

Undercoat isn't flexible and may lead to the paint cracking in time with temperature changes. Gloss is flexible with no danger of cracking - just gloss straight onto the clean copper. Modern decent gloss sticks to most things. Rad paint is an expensive unecessary luxury.

Cheers