Removing Emulsion Paint From Radiators

[GSD]

We recently moved and have found that some of the radiators in our new house have been painted over the years with what looks like several coats of emulsion paint in various colours.

We assume that this was originally intended to make the radiators appear to merge into the main wall colours but the result has been that we now have radiators which have a very thick coating of paint with rather course brush marks and the previous colours showing through in a some places.

If possible we would like to be able to remove all of this and then gloss paint the clean radiators. Is this a practical proposition for an amateur and, if not, does anyone have any suggestions for improving the existing surface so that it can be glossed over successfully. Many thanks, GSD

 

[JohnD]

new radiators

if you want to strip the old ones it will be easier if you take them off, and scrub them down in the garden with wire wool. they are difficult to sand as not flat, but I have had some success with fine wet-and-dry, used wet, by hand.

they are also much easier to paint to a good standard when removed.

IMO Satinwood gives a better apparance than gloss.