Cast Iron Radiators

Why choose cast iron?

Choosing cast iron radiators offers a host of benefits rooted in tradition and practicality. During the Victorian era, cast iron was the preferred material for radiators, and its enduring popularity stems from its ability to bring authenticity to period properties while adding timeless quality to contemporary interiors.

The density and substantial mass of cast iron enable it to function as a highly efficient heat store. This unique characteristic means that a cast iron radiator retains warmth long after the central heating system has been turned off. This quality is particularly valued by heating engineers and architects, especially for older properties.

Cast iron heating not only keeps the radiators warm but also contributes to retaining heat in the building's structure, effectively countering issues like dampness and condensation.
Beyond its functional advantages, cast iron radiators boast a textured finish, providing a distinctive aesthetic appeal. If a column-style radiator with a perfectly smooth finish is preferred, alternatives like the Core or Traverse ranges, crafted from steel, may be more suitable.

Whether seeking authenticity for a period property or adding a touch of timeless elegance to a modern setting, cast iron radiators remain a favoured choice for their enduring appeal and efficient heat retention properties.

What is the difference between cast iron and column radiators?

The terms "cast iron" and "column" are not mutually exclusive when it comes to radiators; rather, they describe different aspects of radiator design. Let's break down the distinctions:

1. Material:

• Cast Iron Radiators: This term refers to the material from which the radiator is made. Cast iron radiators are constructed entirely or predominantly from cast iron. Cast iron is known for its durability and heat retention properties, making it a popular choice in traditional and period-style homes.
• Column Radiators: This term refers to the structure of the radiator. Column radiators have a design that consists of vertical columns or tubes. These columns are responsible for the radiator's heat output. The materials used for column radiators can vary and may include cast iron, steel, or aluminum.

• Cast Iron Radiators: These radiators are typically made entirely of cast iron and often feature intricate designs with ornate details. They are known for their classic and timeless appearance, making them popular in historic or period-style homes.
• Column Radiators: The term "column" describes the structure of the radiator rather than the material. Column radiators can be made from various materials, including cast iron, but they are characterized by a design that includes vertical columns or tubes. The columns contribute to the overall aesthetic and heat output of the radiator.

• Cast Iron Radiators: Cast iron has excellent heat retention properties, allowing the radiator to stay warm for an extended period after the heating system is turned off.
• Column Radiators: The heat retention properties can vary based on the material used. Cast iron column radiators will have similar heat retention characteristics to traditional cast iron radiators.

In summary, "cast iron" describes the material, while "column" describes the design structure of a radiator. Cast iron radiators can have a column design, but not all column radiators are made of cast iron; they can be constructed from various materials. The choice between the two depends on factors such as aesthetic preferences, the period of the home, and specific heating requirements.

Do cast iron radiators take longer to heat up?

Yes, cast iron radiators generally take longer to heat up compared to some modern alternatives, such as steel or aluminium radiators. The thermal conductivity of cast iron is lower than that of materials like steel or aluminium. This means that cast iron heats up more slowly when exposed to hot water or steam.

The slower heat-up time is due to the dense and heavy nature of cast iron. While this characteristic allows cast iron radiators to retain heat well and continue emitting warmth even after the heating system is turned off, it also means that they may require more time to reach their optimal operating temperature.

Despite the longer heat-up time, many people appreciate cast iron radiators for their classic appearance, durability, and the sustained warmth they provide. The choice of radiator material often depends on individual preferences, the aesthetic desired, and the specific heating requirements of a space.

What is the heat output of a cast iron radiator?

The heat output of a cast iron radiator can vary widely based on several factors, including the size of the radiator, the design, and the specific characteristics of the heating system. As a general guideline, the heat output of a radiator is often measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) or watts.

To help you pick the right cast iron radiator for your requirements, each radiator on our site has heat output ratings, so when you pick the size of radiator you require we will show you the heat output for the Delta T 50 rating, you can also change the Delta T to match the rating of your system to get a more accurate heat output rating.

Keep in mind that the heat output requirements for your room varies depending on certain criteria such as insulation of the building, window locations and window type. To help you get a better understanding of the heat output you need for your room, we have a handy heat calculator tool on our homepage that will give you the required heat output and highlight if a radiator is too cold to heat your room as you browse the site.

Reproduction or reclaimed cast iron? Which is best?

Reproduction cast iron radiators:

There are now some superb reproduction cast iron radiators available, which are made the same way as their ancestors, so look just the same. Some of the advantages that our reproduction cast iron radiators have over their reclaimed counterparts are set out below.

Our reproduction cast iron radiators:

• come with a manufacturer’s guarantee.
• are the easier choice – the radiators arrive on-site ready to plumb in.
• are available in primer - for on-site painting or in a painted finish (wide selection of colours to choose from).
• are built to order, so you can specify the right size radiator for your room, in terms of both heat output and dimensions, and you can easily obtain matching radiators in the correct sizes for use throughout the house (achieving this using reclaimed radiators would need a lot of good luck and patience).

Reclaimed Radiators:

• We no longer sell reclaimed cast iron radiators but below are some considerations:
• have a history (but it's worth checking the recent history, in particular, make sure reclaimed radiators have come off a working system and be sure they’ve been stored indoors to avoid frost damage).
• do not come with a manufacturer’s guarantee, but the seller may be prepared to offer some guarantee if the radiator leaks once installed.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on factors such as budget, desired aesthetics, and the level of customization required. A reproduction cast iron radiator provides a hassle-free, guaranteed option with a range of finishes, while a reclaimed radiator offers a unique history and potential cost savings, albeit with additional considerations and potential renovation efforts.

Warning – do not powder coat cast iron radiators, reclaimed or reproduction, as the process can damage the seals between radiator sections.