How do you remove Matt paint from new radiators?

psychosamba

Hi,
I am currently renovating a home I have purchased, and some of the new radiators that we bought were hung and then unhung in order for the painters to get in behind them.

As mentioned, these are brand new radiators (white), and in the process of unhanging them and setting them to one side and covering them, they have unfortunately got some matt paint over them (possibly eggshell in parts too - but mostly matt) from the painters doing their job.

Does anyone know the best method to remove matt paint from new radiators without scarring or damaging the radiators permanently?

Would very hot water with washing up liquid and a sponge remove the paint without damaging the normal paint exterior of
the radiators themselves? Would you need to use the abrasive side of a regular kitchen sponge - but gently?

Any guidance greatly appreciated, as I don't want to ruin, mark or damage these new radiators whilst removing the alien matt paint.

Many thanks if anyone can help with the best method of removal!!

Doozergirl

It doesn't need to be hot water, nor do you really need the washing up liquid.

Just a wet sponge and elbow grease. Or a thumbnail.

The eggshell will probably need white spirit.

casper_g

As Doozergirl says. The previous people in our house had actually painted one of the radiators (very badly) using the unpleasant matt emulsion they had on the walls. I cleaned the whole thing back to the original white powder coating with nothing but warm* water, a non-scratch washing up sponge and the occasional judicious use of a fingernail.

* It might not have to be warm water, but it was much more pleasant if it was!

Robin9

I paint my radiators (well) as well as the wall and the skirting boards and door frames the same matt colour .

It may be a little detrimental to heat transfer.

jk0

Take them off again, and put them to soak in the bath overnight. Paint will almost wipe off.


(I actually did this with non-electric parts of a storage heater last year, as my tenant decided to decorate carelessly some time ago.)

psychosamba

Thanks very much for the replies! I'll try the sponge and hot water method!

psychosamba

It worked - thanks! Was just paranoid as they're new. Thanks again!!