Cast iron was first used to make radiators in the Victorian period. Its high density means a cast iron radiator stays warm long after you turn off your central heating. 

These radiators help retain a building’s internal warmth, keeping damp and condensation at bay. This is why many heating engineers and architects prefer them, particularly for older buildings. They also bring an authenticity and timeless quality to contemporary interiors. 

It’s up to you. Cast iron radiators have an unlimited lifespan. We can restore your vintage radiators to work and function like new ones. Plus have a generous range of ready-to-install renovated radiators to choose from. 

Need a specific size or several identical radiators? Choose from our range of reproduction radiators. We can also usually provide a full house of matching antique radiators too. We have a lot of stock!  Please take a look at our online shop, or get in touch.

Yes, absolutely! Cast iron radiators work on exactly the same principle as modern radiators. They can be installed anywhere, as long as there is a hot water system. 

Yes. All our radiators can be plumbed straight into a conventional hot water central heating system. This includes both antique and reproduction radiators.

The amount of heating is measured in British Thermal Units – or BTU for short. Use our online heat calculator to work the size of radiator you need. The BTU output is included in the radiator product detail pages within our online shop.

We’ll also double-check this calculation based on the size, use and insulation of your room. 

On average 4 – 6 weeks. However this depends on the number of radiators.

Eight signature colours are included in the price of your radiator. These have been chosen for their timeless quality and ability to complement any decor or house style. 

You can also choose your colour finish from any in the RAL colour matching system. As well as colour matching paint companies such as:

• Crown
• Farrow & Ball
• Little Greene

Want a metallic paint finish? We use a specially selected range of high temperature metallic enamel paint. They come in matt, eggshell or gloss. 

Spray painting is the best option. Firstly, we electrostatically charge a radiator to attract paint and ensure an even coverage. Using high-end equipment, and a very keen eye for detail, we methodically spray-paint the radiator. 24 hours is left between coats for the paint to cure properly.

We avoid powder coating as it can create leaks. This is because the process involves baking a radiator in temperatures of up to 200°C. Such a high temperature can damage the seals between radiator sections. Powder coating also swamps the beautiful and fine details of the decorations. In our opinion, it gives a cheap, ‘plastic’ like look.

Our’ Powder coating radiators - yes or no?’ article goes into more detail.

Cast iron radiators are more expensive than modern steel radiators. But they are more efficient, more stylish and practically indestructible.

We always provide an accurate quotation and invoice. We will send you a formal quotation confirming your requirements. There are no hidden cost surprises just before delivery. Or incidental costs. If you can’t see the information you need, then please get in touch.

Yes, we offer a full service. This includes advising on the perfect radiator to fit with your interior design and your heating needs. Just get in touch with us.

Home visits are available within a 30 mile radius of our workshop in Stamford Bridge, North Yorkshire. The fee is refundable against any order. 

Haven’t received your email quotation within 24 hours? Please check your spam/junk folder. They can sometimes be caught up in over-enthusiastic email filters.

Every radiator needs a set of valves. Our valves are sold in pairs of:

• temperature control valve
• lock shield valve to help balance the heating system

You’ll also need to secure your radiator to the wall with a wall tie/stay. Or add feet if it’s free-standing. Shop our accessories here

Check out our range of vintage designs, some of which are exclusive to us:

• Art Deco-inspired radiator feet 
• Luxury wall stays 
• Premium cast iron radiator valves 

This depends on the look you want, and whether you want manual or thermostatic valves. Both types offer the same control over the heating:

Thermostatic radiator valves

These have a built-in temperature sensor. This helps maintain a constant room temperature, by automatically adjusting the radiator’s heat output.

They help save money by preventing the room overheating. Thermostatic valves also ensure the radiator performs as efficiently as possible.

Manual radiator valves

Manual valves are smaller and more discreet than thermostatic ones. They act like taps which control the flow of hot water into the radiator. The more hot water, the hotter the radiator becomes. You adjust them yourself. 

There is a 10 year guarantee on our premium range radiators.

We work very hard to make sure your radiator reaches you in the best condition possible. All our radiators are inspected and pressure tested before they leave us. We will never sell you anything that we don’t think will last. 

However, like any antique, the fabric and the integrity of a vintage cast iron radiator can never be guaranteed. Functionality may degrade slightly, in the same way as engines lose a little power over time. 

All our refurbished and pre-used radiators are supplied with a one-year guarantee covering any serious fault. This includes leaks or leaking seals from the radiator’s main body. However it must have been installed and used correctly. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details. 

We accept cash, BACS transfer and card transactions. All goods and services attract VAT at the current rate. You will receive a full VAT invoice for every purchase.

A rough estimate is between 50 - 150 kgs, 110 - 340 pounds, or  8 - 24 stone.

You can collect your new cast iron radiator yourself. Or use our third party palleted kerbside delivery service. 

Your palleted order will be dispatched from our workshop and delivered by a courier company to your property’s kerbside from £126 upwards. This depends on the delivery’s size, weight and location. Due to insurance constraints, drivers are unable to help move anything further than your kerbside. 

Please let us know of any access restrictions due to the weight or width of a 7.5tonne truck before arranging delivery. Whilst you will know the day of the collection or delivery, the Palleted Courier Services will not be able to give you a specific arrival time or window. 

You will need at least two people on site, possibly four, to safely move your radiators. Check out our Moving cast iron radiators article for more tips. Or get in touch.

Yes. From detailed quotation, collection and bespoke renovation and refurbishment of each radiator, we give your project the attention it deserves. Please contact us on 07411 068583 or workshop@vintagecastironradiators.co.uk

Yes. Vintage Cast Iron Radiators have worked in cathedrals, palaces, universities and listed heritage sites. We sensitively undertake your radiator renovation, advising on best practices and maintaining a discreet line of communication. 

We provide you with a fully detailed scope of work before starting, working closely with you to explain all options. Our years of experience allow us to offer the most appropriate and cost-effective service for you. 

Need our advice to tender for a contract bid? We’re happy to offer our expertise. Please get in touch on 07411 068583 or workshop@vintagecastironradiators.co.uk for an informal chat. 

Yes, we are always looking to purchase unrenovated and old cast iron radiators. Please email workshop@vintagecastironradiators.co.uk with:

• a photo of the radiator/radiators
• a description
• your location
• your contact details

We’ll then let you know if we would be interested in purchasing them. Depending on the number of radiators you are selling, we may be able to arrange collection. 

“From the outset, Fliss listened to our plans to replace some existing radiators with cast iron. She was really helpful as we narrowed down the options to the best one for us. Fascinating to see the restoration process first hand too.” – Mark Adderley