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September 19, 2007
radiators
Does anyone have experience removing and cleaning up old radiators vs. removing and purchasing new ones? Any recommendations for who could do the work? Thanks
Comments
cleaning is always cheaper. If it ain't broke don't fix it.
Posted by: guest at September 20, 2007 3:56 PM
Thanks quest. Any chance you can recommend someone that cleans, repaints, re-installs with new fittings? Thanks!
Posted by: newatthis at September 20, 2007 7:02 PM
If they were in a building that was heated there should be no problems other than cosmetic (usually). Then they just need to be "bled." If however they were in a building that was "cold" and they had water in them, then cracks are a potential issue. They can be pressure tested with a simple home made gauge and 20 lbs of air pressure.
If you do get a plumber, make sure he/she has experience with old radiators. The problem with replacing them is cost: cost of moving them out and moving new or replacement radiators in.
Good Luck,
Fred From Silver Fox Architectural Salvage
Albany, NY
Posted by: guest at September 20, 2007 10:21 PM
very important - is your heating system steam or hot water? if steam i would not recommend replacing. cast iron steam radiators are very versatile, and when you replace them (as I did) there can be major problems with the valves, vents, etc. that can make you life miserable.
if they work, do not fuck with them.
Posted by: guest at September 21, 2007 1:56 AM
If they're steam it's not hard to work on them because they're easy to move. However, if they are working fine and they are old, I would think twice about relacing fittings. Often you can be asking for trouble. If they are fancy ornate radiators I would clean them up. If they're butt ugly full of old paint I would consider having some nice oak covers made. Good luck.
Posted by: Rick at September 21, 2007 8:09 AM
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