How to conceal the manifold, etc.

[Jupiter01]

Hi,

My plumber has installed an underfloor heating system and situated this under the stair case. The builders have since, plastered around this and made the walls good but I am now expected to do something to conceal this kit...

I was wondering what people tend to do for this given that it needs to be accessible and do I also need to be able to view any of this during normal operations?

The rest of this space is painted plain white.

Thanks in advance

 

[muggles]

Normally build a wooden box over it, or plan the system better so that it can be put somewhere more convenient

You don't need access except for maintenance

A photo would have helped...

 

[Razor900]

Radiator covers can work well

 

[PullerGas]

So in effect, the manifold is in a cupboard under the stair or has the 'Builder' (generic term) not left access to the manifold etc?

The manifold is not unsightly in a cupboard, surely??

 

[Jupiter01]

The manifold is as shown in the picture. There is no cupboard. The walls around it have since been plastered and painted white. I am trying to determine how I should cover it, make accessible, etc.

 

[gigz]

The manifold is as shown in the picture. There is no cupboard. The walls around it have since been plastered and painted white. I am trying to determine how I should cover it, make accessible, etc.

Where's the picture ?

 

[muggles]

I can't see a picture

 

[muggles]

Where's the picture ?

Glad it's not just me!

 

[Jupiter01]

oh sorry guys!
Here it is:

 

[PullerGas]

oh sorry guys!
Here it is:

Bloody hell!! Surely you didn't pay a 'Builder' to leave a job like that in your home??!!

 

[Jupiter01]

It's improved from that pic somewhat as the surrounding area has been plastered and painted. However, the manifold area is still exposed. Yes, the builder has left it like that...

What's your advice on concealing this and how do I make it accessible? Also, does some of it need to be in view?

 

[John D v2.0]

Looks OK to me, just put a door or boxing over it and paint it white.
Our boiler pipework is a bit like that, and the boring bits are boxed in with a removable panel screwed in over the business area. All painted the same colour as the room, and only a screwdriver needed to gain access.
In your case perhaps the pump sticks out more than would be ideal, but the same principle applies.
You could even put a cabinet in front, modified to suit access. I hear IKEA hacking is very popular if you're into IKEA furniture.

PS the external wall insulation? I guess ? Should really have been done first, as that area will be the hottest so you'll lose more heat. Although on the plus side the pipes will keep the condensation off.

 

[Jupiter01]

can I use some type of adhesive to fix the battens to the wall rather than screwing? I'm concerned about pipes and cables

 

[muggles]

Sticks Like Sh*t Turbo from Screwfix should do it