What is the cost to paint all the radiator covers in an older Ottawa home?

Painting radiator covers in an older Ottawa home typically costs $75 to $150 per cover for professional work, or $200 to $800 total for an average home with 4 to 6 covers. If you're tackling this as a DIY project, expect to spend $100 to $200 on materials including primer, paint, brushes, and sandpaper for the entire house.

Ottawa's older homes, particularly those built between 1920 and 1960 in neighbourhoods like the Glebe, Centretown, and Sandy Hill, often feature cast iron or steel radiator covers that require special attention. These covers endure significant temperature cycling throughout Ottawa's heating season, which runs from October through April. The constant expansion and contraction, combined with dry winter air from forced heating systems, causes paint to crack and peel more readily than on other interior surfaces.

The key to long-lasting radiator cover painting is proper preparation and paint selection. Start by removing the covers if possible — most lift off or have simple mounting screws. Clean thoroughly with TSP (trisodium phosphate) to remove grease and grime, then sand lightly to create adhesion. Use a high-quality bonding primer designed for metal surfaces ($45 to $65 per quart), followed by a durable enamel paint that can handle heat cycling. Benjamin Moore Advance or Sherwin-Williams ProClassic are excellent choices at $35 to $50 per quart. These hybrid formulations provide the durability of oil-based paint with easier cleanup.

Important consideration: Never paint radiator covers while the heating system is running. Ottawa's heating season makes this a spring or summer project when you can properly cure the paint before fall startup. Also, avoid thick paint buildup that could restrict airflow and reduce heating efficiency.

For homeowners with multiple covers or ornate cast iron pieces requiring detailed work, connecting with an experienced painter through the Ottawa Construction Network directory can ensure professional results that will last through many heating seasons.