Radiator Paint...need Some Help Please!

[Lisa_Louise]

Hi,

My husband painted two radiators downstairs last Saturday with radiator paint. He did what it said on the tin, applied a coat, waited until it was dry and then applied a second coat. He put the heating on Monday evening and it absolutely stunk the house out. The fumes/odour was horrendous. 1 week on and there is still an odour coming from them that makes my eyes sore and gives me a headache when the heating is on.

Is there anything I can do to get rid of the smell from the radiators? I can't open doors and windows as its freezing outside! I've tried wiping them down with plain water and spraying them with fragrance, but nothing is working, the same horrid smell is still coming from them.

Thank you!

[tonyav]

Probably oil based paint, if so then it's the solvents burning off. Probably take a few weeks ( or more ).

[Togo]

Sometimes an onion cut in half will alleviate he odour Lisa, or a lemon or two cut into wedges in the vicinity. You are busy Lisa.

[Maydup]

It might speed up the process of burning off the solvents if you leave the heating on 24 hrs a day for a few days. And the tip to leave a halved onion and slices of lemon close by does work. Replace them for new every 24 hrs as they soak up the solvents.

[The Builder]

Inevitable, I'm afraid. Oil-based solvents take a little time to evaporate. I'm sure it'll be gone in a few days though.

[Gizmonster]

I'm sorry I can't offer any advice, I just think it's strange that you're encountering this problem.
I've painted a few of my radiators and never had this problem.
I've always used an aerosol can of radiator paint, rather than applying it with a brush - so I don't know if that would make any difference ??

[Lisa_Louise]

Thanks for your advice everyone. I've tried the lemon cut in half and put them under the said radiator, I think there might be a bit of a difference this morning, eyes aren't so sore sitting in the room!

I couldn't bring myself to try the onion cut in half!!

Just moved, Togo, lots of jobs to do!!

[bhg481]

The trick really is to paint them the day you turn off your central heating for the summer. They'll still smell when you turn them back on in the autumn but not as much.

[Togo]

Been there done that Lisa. Never seems to be enough time or money when you are getting sorted.