Within both new build properties, renovated older properties and traditional family homes, radiator cabinets continue to prove more popular than ever, with people realising and appreciating the benefits they have to offer. One of the reasons why they have become so popular is the easy availability of readymade radiator covers and cabinets at DIY and interior design stores.
Many people ask what the real differences are between readymade radiator cabinets and made to measure radiator covers, and whether the extra cost is really worth it. In this article we’ll look at this issue, as well as some of the other common question people ask about radiator covers for the home.
What’s the difference between readymade radiator cabinets and made to measure radiator covers?
Obviously readymade radiator cabinets are a standard one-size-fits-all, which of course invariably they don’t. If you have a new build property that has standard dimensions and no unusual features then you may well find that readymade cabinets will fit fine, but in many cases when you add furniture, or you have slightly uneven or slanting walls, doors, pipes and electrical sockets in the way standard fits don’t always fit.
Of course the other issue is that you have no say in the look of the cabinet if you buy readymade. This is fine is you like the look of the cabinets and radiator covers on sale, but if you want to have a cabinet with a slightly more stylish look that’s tailored to suit your room perfectly then there’s no question that bespoke cabinets will be preferable.
It’s also important to bear in mind that readymade cabinets are mass produced in factories by machines, whereas made to measure radiator covers will be handcrafted to your specific specifications, offering a significantly higher level of quality and long term durability.
What options are generally possible with the way bespoke radiator cabinets look like?
As well as choosing from a selection of different styles and designs available it is usually possible to choose features which more precisely complement the style and look of your room and existing decor. Subtle changes such as corner designs can make a surprising amount of difference, and overall effects such as the wood veneer and colour will certainly help your cover blend in perfectly. One of the significant elements of any radiator cover or cabinet is the grille at the front, and with made to measure radiator covers it is possible to choose from a wide selection of patterns and styles to ensure your cabinet suits the style and theme of your room.
Can radiator covers be painted any colour to suit the existing decor of my room?
Yes, bespoke radiator cabinets can usually be painted for you in almost any colour you choose. Some manufacturers even offer a colour matching service which will help to ensure the colour of your cabinet is a perfect match for the colours already in use in your room. It’s important that the quality of paint used is high because of course it will be exposed to direct heat for most of the time, and this heating and cooling it will experience will require a flexible, high quality paint with an outstanding finish.
Is it really true that radiator covers can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of my existing heating?
Many people have found that after they have had radiator cabinets fitted their room is heated more quickly and more effectively, allowing them to actually turn the heating down, and even switch it off sooner saving both fuel and money. Any improvement in heating efficiency will require a perfect fit, and so this is unlikely to be experienced with readymade cabinets as the fit will usually not be perfectly flush, allowing hot air to escape around the sides and top.
For bespoke radiator cabinets and made to measure radiator covers visit Kingston Cabinets, a family run business based in both London and Cheshire.