Choosing radiator covers isn’t just about picking something that looks nice. The right one improves heat flow, adds usable space, and can even keep kids and pets safe. But to get it right, you need to start with the basics.
Before anything else: measure, then measure again. Radiators come in all shapes and awkward sizes, and guessing won’t get you far.
Here’s what to note down:
Height
Measure from floor (or skirting board) to the top of the radiator. Now add an extra 5 cm to it and you will have your height for the radiator cover.
Width
Now, measure the width or the length of the radiator pipe work. You must include any side valves or pipes. Why? We must include them in our measurements to hide them completely.
Once done we need to add 5cm on each side to give proper air ventilation around the radiator cover. This will avoid those boxy look that a cut to cut measurement will give.
Depth
Next we need to measure how far it sticks out from the wall. Once again add 5 cm to the measurement and you will have your radiator cabinet’s depth.
In the image above we show how adding a few centimetres on each side helps you avoid covers that look oddly small or don’t fully hide valves. It also ensures that your new large or small radiator covers won’t block airflow or bump into your existing trim.
Want help? Use a printable guide or measuring tape app to get this part sorted in minutes.
Radiator covers sit directly above a constant heat source, so durability matters. Opt for MDF or engineered wood designed to handle warm air without warping.
If you have little ones or pets, look for covers designed to stay cooler on the outside. They are known as “low surface temperature surface radiator covers”. Some brands specifically keep surface temperatures under 43°C to reduce burn risk.
Planning to put books, decor, or something above it? Choose a cover with slatted ventilation and a heat-resistant shelf. That way, warm air keeps flowing and your items stay safe. Safety note: Just don’t balance anything electrical directly on top as the temperature above radiators can reach as high as 65°C. The temperatures easily exceed the safe operating temperatures of any electrical equipment.
