Classic Column - Lacquered Bare Metal Products
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the technical difference between the 2, 3, and 4 column bare metal models?
The primary technical difference is the depth and heat output per section. The 2 column model is 65mm deep, ideal for narrow hallways. The 3 column model is 101mm deep, offering a balance of output and size. The 4 column model is 139mm deep, designed for maximum heat emission in large rooms. All feature the same clear lacquer finish, but you must select the depth that fits your available floor space while meeting your BTU requirements for these cheap budget direct own brand classic column radiators.
Does the clear lacquer coating provide the same rust protection as paint?
Yes, the clear lacquer is a technically formulated protective sealant that prevents oxygen and moisture from reaching the raw steel. While it is durable, it requires more careful handling than a powder coat. If the lacquer is deeply scratched during installation, the raw metal underneath can oxidise. Therefore, you must ensure that any chips caused during the fitting of mounting options are touched up immediately to maintain the 10 year guarantee and preventing surface rust.
Why are the weld marks visible on these specific radiators?
The visibility of weld marks, polishing swirls, and heat discoloration is a deliberate technical feature of the Lacquered Bare Metal finish. Unlike painted radiators where filler and powder coat hide the manufacturing process, this finish exposes the raw laser welds at the column joints. This confirms the authentic industrial construction of the product and ensures that every single section has a unique visual character, rather than being a uniform, mass produced block.
Can I install high output 4 column bare metal radiators on a stud wall?
Installing the heavy 4 column models on a stud wall presents a structural challenge due to their significant weight (e.g., over 50kg for large sizes). You cannot rely on drywall anchors. You must technically reinforce the wall with timber noggins or use a Stud Wall Bracket Kit to locate the internal studs. For the safest installation of these heavy cheap budget direct own brand classic column radiators, we strongly recommend using floor mounting options to transfer the weight directly to the floorboards.
How do I clean the raw metal surface without stripping the lacquer?
You must avoid all abrasive chemical cleaners, solvents, or acidic sprays, as these can chemically dissolve the clear lacquer seal. The correct technical maintenance is to use a soft, lint free cloth dampened with warm water and a pH neutral soap. This removes dust and fingerprints without compromising the protective barrier. Keeping the surface dry after cleaning is essential to prevent moisture from sitting on any potential micro-abrasions in the lacquer.
Are these bare metal radiators suitable for damp environments like bathrooms?
Technically, while the lacquer seals the metal, raw steel radiators are more susceptible to corrosion in high humidity environments than chrome or heavily powder coated towel rails. If you install them in a bathroom, you must ensure the room has excellent mechanical ventilation (extractor fans) to prevent condensation from sitting on the cold metal surface. You should also avoid placing them in "Zone 1" areas where they will be subjected to direct water splashing.
What valve style is technically compatible with the bare metal finish?
From an aesthetic and technical perspective, standard white plastic valves clash with the industrial raw steel. You should use manual or thermostatic valves in metallic finishes such as Pewter, Old English Brass, or Brushed Nickel. These finishes resist tarnishing and match the raw industrial look. You must also choose the correct valve pattern (Angled, Straight, or Corner) based on your pipework positioning to ensure a tension free connection to the radiator tails.
Do these radiators require a specific type of corrosion inhibitor?
Yes, like all steel radiators, the Lacquered Bare Metal range must be protected internally. You must flush the entire heating system to remove soldering flux and debris before commissioning. You must then fill the system with a high quality chemical inhibitor (such as Fernox or Sentinel) to prevent internal corrosion (sludge) and hydrogen gas buildup. Failure to do this will cause the radiator to rust from the inside out, which is not covered by the warranty.
How does the heat output of bare metal compare to painted white radiators?
The clear lacquer finish offers excellent thermal transmissivity. Unlike thick chrome plating which can trap heat, the thin lacquer layer allows the radiant heat from the steel to emit freely into the room. This means the Lacquered Bare Metal range provides a high BTU output that is technically comparable to, and often slightly better than, standard painted finishes, ensuring your cheap budget direct own brand classic column radiators are highly efficient.
What are the correct mounting options for uneven floors?
If you are using floor supports or cast feet on an uneven floor (common in older properties), you technically need to level the radiator to ensure efficient water flow and air bleeding. Slip on feet follow the floor level, so you may need to shim them. A more adjustable solution is using the Floor Mount Kit which can be bolted down and shimmed at the base. ensuring the radiator is level prevents air pockets from getting trapped at one end of the top collector.