Cast iron radiators last not decades but centuries
Revive yours for the next one
With a few simple tweaks, 100-year-old originals can be made every bit as efficient as their modern counterparts.
Our refurbishment service gives a new lease of life to even the most tired radiator. Our valves and accessories add a new dimension of class.
Above: Before and after photo of early 20th Century refurbished cast iron radiator with new thermostatic fittings. This model was cast in Hull, England, by the National Radiator Company, a subsidiary of the American Radiator Company.
Call us on (917) 599-9951 for a quote on this radiator. Its larger size introduces a little complexity but nothing insurmountable.
The work we do is covered by our
10-year Ironshield Warranty.
Our honed refurbishment process brings even the most tired-looking cast iron radiator up to date.
Back to bare iron
We start by removing the old paint. Our three shot blasting machines allow us to tackle all sizes and shapes. Our experienced craftsmen know which grade of blasting media to use, from a gentle rounded bead to aggressive chilled iron. We remove the surface coatings while preserving the original cast iron patina.
A careful inspection
At this point we’re able to give the radiator a careful visual inspection. If there’s likely to be an issue, we’ll bring it to your attention before proceeding. We’ll only ever bill for the work we actually do.
Under Pressure
Shot blasting sometimes reveals degradation in the castings or gaskets. With the old paint removed, we pressure test the radiator to check it’s watertight.
And we don’t just test once. We test both before and after any work is done, and power-flush the radiator to remove a century’s worth of sludge too.
Our standard test pressure is 8 bar (116 psi).
Updating for today’s technology
If needed we’ll replace the existing bushings, including adding a vacuum breaker on steam radiators to allow for thermostatic control.
Old hot-water systems had large pipes because they relied on gravity and buoyancy for distribution of the hot water through the network of radiators. Thanks to the pumps inside modern boilers, much smaller ½” piping is usually all that’s required with domestic hydronic radiators.
We usually fit new bushings to accommodate modern valves, but we’ll always check before doing so.
A Professional Finish
We paint and lacquer cast iron radiators using hard-wearing epoxy paints that cure to a scratch- and heat-resistant finish. We also use prestigious paints such as Benjamin Moore, Farrow & Ball and Little Greene.
We never powder coat reclaimed radiators
Powder coating is an extremely durable finish that we use extensively on our new radiators. However because the process involves high temperatures it can cause damage to the 100-year old seals inside original radiators. It’s the single most common reason for leaks in refurbished cast iron radiators.
Signed, sealed, delivered
Once complete, we carefully package the radiator ready for the return journey. Our honed process ensures you’ll receive exactly what you’ve asked for with no unwanted surprises.
And guaranteed for ten years
The work we do – the finish, and new seals and components – is all covered by our 10-year Ironshield Warranty. Read our plain English refurbishment terms & conditions here.
United States
United Kingdom
