There’s nothing quite like the cosiness of cast iron around Christmas time. Perhaps this is linked with our romantic ideas of a classic Victorian Christmas, or maybe it’s just about wanting to make essential upgrades before you entertain guests for the holiday season. Your new cast iron radiators are sure to be a talking point!

If you’re dreaming of a cosy home with stunning vintage radiators, we’re here to help make this dream a reality. The clock is ticking to get everything ready, so let’s get started…

How to upgrade your radiators in time for Christmas

With just under 2 months to go before Christmas, you might think it isn’t possible, but with a bit of planning and some cooperation from key players, you should be able to pull this off.

Step one – book your plumber

Start by finding your plumber. Let them know your plans and give them a link to our website so they can find out all of the information they’ll need for your installation. They can use our current lead times as an indication of when they’ll need to schedule the installation.

Step two – calculate heat requirements

Next, measure your rooms and use our BTU calculator to find out the heat output requirements. You can then use this information to shop our extensive range of vintage style radiators, including traditional column radiators, Victorian school radiators and ornate cast iron radiators.

Step three – choose your accessories

Don’t forget to shop for matching accessories at the same time. You’ll need radiator valves, wall stays and pipe shrouds for the installation. 

Step four – place your order

Place your order and let your plumber know which items you have ordered. We provide a rough guide for the pipe centres, but we recommend waiting for the radiators to arrive on site before moving your pipework. This is because each radiator is unique and hand assembled, so there can be slight variations in the widths.

Step five – prepare for delivery

Prepare for the arrival day by making sure someone will be present to move your radiators indoors. We offer curb-side delivery only and our delivery drivers are not equipped or insured to help move your radiators. If required, please request a ‘dedicated day’ delivery service and we can arrange this for you. This way you know when to expect delivery and can have help ready.

Step five – installation time!

Now it’s time for your plumber to work their magic and install your new radiators. Our radiators are designed to fit with most standard plumbing pipework and can be adapted to different sizes. Your plumber will install and then test your radiators according to our specifications. This will help to ensure your radiators stay in peak working condition and will keep your warranty intact. 

Step six – deck the halls

Then it’s time to deck the halls and get your home ready for the festive season. Be prepared for endless compliments on your radiators as they fill your home with warmth and effortless style.

Top tips for keeping things on track

Make sure you select paint colour for your radiators. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that unpainted radiators will be faster. Radiators that are installed with the primer paint only will be dust magnets that attract scuffs and marks – not the look you want for your home at Christmas or any other time of year. Avoid this by choosing one of our beautiful heritage inspired shades, including matte, metallic and satin shades.

Book your plumber as soon as possible. Plumbers tend to be booked up around this time of year as people will be replacing faulty boilers, upgrading their heating and dealing with breakdowns.

Don’t move pipework until the radiators arrive. We offer pipe centres as a guideline, but the way our radiators are assembled by hand and cast using traditional methods means that the fully assembled size could be slightly different. Avoid repeating work by waiting for them to arrive before moving your pipes.

Shop accessories at the same time. You can’t install your radiators without valves, and wall stays need to be placed before the pipework is attached. You can save delays by getting everything in one place – this will also ensure your accessories are a perfect fit for your new radiators.

Ask our team for advice if you are unsure. You don’t have to struggle through this process alone.

If you’ve got a question, reach out to our support team before you place your order. This can avoid the stress of having to return and replace your radiators if you select the wrong one.