Paint behind a radiator

Paint the wall behind a radiator without removing it, using a radiator roller and some careful masking.

RD-01Clear the area and protect the floorMove any furniture away from the radiator and lay a dust sheet on the floor beneath it. Turn off the heating and let the radiator cool completely before you start - hot metal can scorch masking tape and make paint go tacky. Wipe the skirting and floor nearby so grit doesn't get pressed into wet paint.

1 each · Dust sheet

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1 each · Cloth

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RD-02Tilt the radiator forward if it allowsMost radiators hang on two or three wall brackets. With a second person helping, lift it slightly and swing it forward off the top brackets, leaving it resting on the bottom ones - this opens a gap to get a roller behind. Don't disconnect any pipework, just tilt it on its existing brackets. If it doesn't move easily, skip this and paint around it instead.

RD-03Clean the wall behind the radiatorDust and cobwebs build up fast in this hidden spot. Use a vacuum with a hose attachment or a soft brush to lift loose dust, then wipe with a damp cloth. Let the wall dry fully before you paint.

1 each · Damp cloth

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RD-04Mask up edges and pipeworkRun masking tape along the top of the skirting board and around any pipes or valves you don't want painted. If you've left the radiator in place, tape its visible edges to protect them from splashes.

1 roll · Masking tape

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RD-05Fill and prime if neededIf you spot cracks or flaking old filler, fill with a quick-drying filler and sand smooth once dry. Spot-prime any bare plaster or filled patches so the finish coat covers evenly. Skip this step if the wall is already painted and sound.

1 tub · Quick-drying filler

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1 each · Sanding sponge

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1 tin · Spot primer

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RD-06Cut in the edges with a brushUse a small angled brush to paint along the skirting, around pipes, and near the radiator brackets where a roller can't reach. Work in short strokes and don't overload the brush - drips run further in this tight space.

1 each · Angled sash brush

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RD-07Roll the main area with a radiator rollerLoad a long-handled radiator roller (a slim foam roller on an extended arm) and reach behind the radiator to cover the main wall area. Work top to bottom in overlapping strokes, and reload the roller often so it doesn't drag or spatter.

1 each · Radiator roller kit

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1 litre · Emulsion paint

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1 each · Paint tray

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RD-08Let the first coat dry, then apply a secondCheck the tin for drying time - most emulsions need 2 to 4 hours before a second coat. Apply the second coat the same way, then use a torch to check behind the radiator once dry for any missed patches.

RD-09Remove tape, tidy up and reset the radiatorPeel off the masking tape while the paint is still slightly tacky for a crisp edge. If you tilted the radiator forward, lower it carefully back onto its brackets. Wash the rollers and brushes, air the room, and only turn the heating back on once the paint is fully dry - usually about 24 hours.

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