Hi my question is how do I make an easy no saw needed radiator cover.

Cathy Ax
by Cathy Ax
  5 answers
  • Sharon Sharon on Aug 28, 2017

    Find yourself a lumber store where they will cut it to your specifications. Draw you design with measurements, then make a list of the lengths and width lumber needed.

  • Kim Kim on Aug 28, 2017

    FYI I am making this up while thinking about your project, so no real experience with this.

    I thought about picture frames. I don't know the size of your radiator but can you get a picture frame that is 5" taller and 6" wider than your radiator? Then get two picture frames (or mirror frames) that are 5" taller than the radiator and 3" wider than your radiator's depth. Then get a frame that is the length of the front frame and the depth of the side frames.

    Use tiny L brackets to attach pieces to make a sort of box. Put the expanded metal panels in your frames and paint the whole thing.


    Hopefully that gives you a more realistic idea that fits your actual radiator and space.

    : )


    • See 2 previous
    • V Smith V Smith on Nov 25, 2018

      Frames can be expensive. If you decide to go this way look into framing for canvases. The pieces are sold in pairs, already mitered, and are made to go together at the corners. Whatever you decide to use as your frame it has to be able to support the board across the top and will benefit from blocks on the corners for additional strength. You don't want to put your time and money into it only to have it collapse sideways because it wasn't ridgid enough.

  • Susan Susan on Aug 28, 2017

    As in "no-sewing "OR "no cutting".?..?

  • Jcraw Jcraw on Nov 25, 2018

    Find an appropriately-sized used? bookcase. Knock off the back. Buy radiator grating, or chicken wire if it suits your decor and nail or staple it on.

    Get trim at HD and ask them to cut to size and nail it over your mesh.

    Paint to suit.

    You could also use “small” square wood lattice for a more formal look. Again, HD or Lowe’s would cut to size.

  • V Smith V Smith on Nov 25, 2018

    Measure the space around the rad. Draw out your design on paper, mark the size and number of the wood pieces you will need on your drawing. Have the pieces cut for you at Lowes or Home Depot. After you construct the frame you will need to insert some metal grill (thin, flexible,open screen) it can be costly so plan well. If you don't want to cut that either, then know ahead of the build what sizes are available and build accordingly.

    • V Smith V Smith on Nov 25, 2018

      Also, know ahead of time what type a fasteners you plan to use. If you decide on screws be sure to pre drill the holes so you do not split the wood. If you plan on using nail I suggest that you also use wood glue. A "square" will be useful when you start to assemble the framework. Include some blocks of wood to go into the corners where the top meets the sides of the frame to help stabilize your frame and make it a little more rigid.