Frequently Asked Questions

A: Yes, cast iron radiators are highly efficient, though they work differently from modern pressed steel radiators. Cast iron takes longer to heat up and cool down, meaning it releases heat more gradually. While a pressed steel radiator heats and cools quickly, a cast iron radiator retains warmth long after the boiler has turned off—resulting in a comparable overall energy output. Many of our customers find that cast iron radiators are especially well-suited to traditional or stone-built properties, where slow, steady heat over longer periods is ideal.

A: Yes, all of our cast iron radiators come with a guarantee of either 10 or 25 years, depending on the type of gasket used. Radiators assembled with paper gaskets have a 25-year guarantee, other radiators are covered for 10 years. Built and tested using traditional techniques and British made gaskets, our cast iron radiators are designed to stand the test of time. With proper care, they should last a lifetime—many reclaimed radiators we see are still going strong after more than 100 years. There's every reason to expect yours will continue heating your home for generations.

A. Understanding the distinction between a section and a column is key when choosing your cast iron radiator. A sectionrefers to each individual cast iron piece that, when joined together, forms the complete radiator. A column, on the other hand, refers to the number of vertical channels within each section.

For example, a 9-column radiator means each section has 9 vertical columns. So, if you see a radiator with 21 sections, it consists of 21 individual castings, each with 9 columns. The number of sections determines the overall length of the radiator, while the number of columns affects its depth and heat output.

Once you've calculated the heat requirement for your room, you can work out how many sections you’ll need by dividing that figure by the heat output per section—this is listed on all our product pages. There's no need to worry about assembly; with over a decade of experience, we’ll build your radiator to your exact specifications. Just let us know the style (column count or design) and the size (number of sections), and we’ll take care of the rest. Generally, more columns mean a greater surface area—and therefore a higher heat output—but your choice may also depend on available space and your preferred aesthetic.

We can build your cast iron radiator to any size, style, or finish to suit your specific needs. The simplest way to calculate the correct size is by measuring your room and entering the dimensions into our easy-to-use BTU calculator.

If you’d prefer us to do the calculations for you, just send your room measurements to info@CastIronRadiators.ltd.ukor give us a call on 01723 321 000 — our team will be happy to help.

A. While many UK retailers offer traditional cast iron radiators with similar styles, finishes, and pricing, we set ourselves apart by manufacturing and testing every radiator in-house at our facility in North Yorkshire. We don't just sell radiators — we assemble, pressure-test, and quality-check each one ourselves, using our own dedicated facilities.

You may find our radiators listed through third-party sellers, but buying directly from us means cutting out the middlemen — and getting the highest quality at the most competitive price.

Some suppliers may appear slightly cheaper, but this usually comes at the expense of quality. We never cut corners. We use British-made gaskets and European-engineered joining threads that comply with CE standards and are pre-qualified by the British Cast Iron Radiators Association, the industry’s regulatory body. Many competitors do not meet these standards.

In addition to generous guarantees, we go further by performing ultrasonic wall thickness checks, section-by-section pressure testing, and full radiator testing — all in-house. Most importantly, we only use trusted British and European components, so you can have full confidence in the quality, safety, and longevity of every radiator we produce.

A. As one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of traditional cast iron radiators, we carry out rigorous in-house testing at our factory in North Yorkshire. Every radiator undergoes individual section pressure testing as well as full assembled pressure testing to ensure strength and reliability.

We also perform random ultrasonic wall thickness checks on our castings, as natural variations can occur in the sand casting process. This ensures every radiator meets the minimum wall thickness standards defined by British Standards and complies with CE certification requirements.

Additionally, we use paint thickness calibration testing to guarantee a high-quality and durable finish on every radiator we produce.

A. As the UK’s largest retailer of cast iron radiators, we offer a full range of accessories, valves, pipe shrouds, and wall stays to complete your installation and enhance the look of your radiator.

Valves – Manual or Thermostatic

Our period-style radiator valves are available in both manual and thermostatic versions:

• Thermostatic valves contain a built-in thermostat that automatically regulates water flow based on room temperature. This helps prevent freezing — which can damage cast iron radiators — making them essential for radiators placed in colder rooms or areas at risk of frost.
• Manual valves require you to open and close them by hand, offering traditional operation and a classic look.

Both types are available in a variety of high-quality finishes including brass, chrome, antique brass, copper, nickel, and black nickel.

Pipe Shrouds

Pipe shrouds are decorative covers placed over exposed pipework beneath the valve. They help to hide any visible holes in the floor and ensure a consistent finish. If you’re choosing a metallic valve (such as chrome or nickel), matching pipe shrouds are a popular finishing touch.

Wall Stays

Due to their weight, wall stays are strongly recommended for all radiators except 7- and 9-column models. While it’s unlikely a radiator would tip over on its own, wall stays provide extra stability — particularly important in homes with young children.

Wall stays are available in plain steel (which can be painted with the touch-up pot we provide) or in matching metallic finishes to complement your valves.

If you have any questions about which accessories are right for your radiator, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01723 321 000 — our team is happy to help.

A. There is no fixed maximum length for our cast iron radiators — because each one is hand-assembled to order, we can build them as large as your space requires. For particularly large rooms, we've assembled radiators over 4 metres long.

However, radiators longer than 1.2 metres can't be shipped fully assembled on a standard pallet. For these larger sizes, we offer a few options:

• Radiators up to 2.4 metres can be shipped on a double pallet for an additional cost.
• Radiators over 1.2 metres may be delivered partially assembled, along with an assembly tool, full instructions, and British made gaskets and joining threads (depending on the model).

If you're ordering a longer radiator, we recommend having help available during installation, as these units are extremely heavy. More information about Oversized radiators can be found in our Oversized Radiator Section.

Please call us on 01723 321 000 to discuss your requirements — we’re happy to help you find the best solution.

A. We offer a wide selection of colours and finishes to suit every style of home. Your cast iron radiator can be supplied in a simple black primer, professionally painted in one of our stock colours, hand-antiqued for a traditional look, or even polished to a near mirror finish.

We can also colour match to your chosen paint shade — simply provide a sample or reference. All standard stock colours are shown on the product page, and for a small additional cost, we’re happy to match any specific colour you already have.

A. Yes — wall stays are always recommended when installing cast iron radiators. They provide crucial stability and help prevent the radiator from being accidentally tipped or knocked over. Cast iron radiators are extremely heavy, especially when filled with water, and even a slight knock can cause movement.

It’s natural for people to rest a hand on a warm radiator, so for safety and peace of mind, wall stays are an essential part of any installation.

A. You're very welcome to visit our North Yorkshire showroom in Filey, where you can see our full range of cast iron radiators on display.

Showroom Address:
Cast Iron Radiators Ltd
Westwyn Works, Clarence Drive, Filey, North Yorkshire, YO14 0AA

We’re open Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm, and weekends by appointment. Give us a call on 01723 321 000 and we’ll make sure the kettle’s on!

A. This is one of the most common questions we receive at Cast Iron Radiators Ltd — and the answer is straightforward.

Manual radiator valves allow you to control your radiator manually — simply turn the valve to switch the radiator on or off. The radiator will stay on regardless of the room temperature until you turn it off yourself.

Thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs), on the other hand, feature a built-in thermostat. You set your preferred room temperature by adjusting the valve, and the radiator will automatically turn off when the room reaches that temperature. As the room cools, the valve will switch the radiator back on.

TRVs are generally more energy-efficient and eco-friendly, as they help reduce unnecessary heating — saving you money and lowering your energy use.

We also offer a range of electric and programmable valves, which can be used with a double lockshield valve setup for even greater control. If you'd like help choosing the right valve for your system, our team is always happy to advise.

A. BBOE stands for Bottom Bottom Opposite Ends, which is the most common configuration for cast iron radiators. However, we understand that different installations may require different setups.

We can assemble your radiator to suit a variety of configurations, including BOE (Bottom Opposite End), TBOE (Top and Bottom Opposite Ends), and same-end connections, depending on your specific plumbing requirements.

If you’re unsure which configuration you need or would like to discuss alternative options, please don’t hesitate to contact our team on 01723 321 000 — we’re happy to advise and ensure your radiator is built to match your exact installation needs.

A. All of our cast iron radiators are made to order and individually tested to ensure the highest quality. Lead times can vary slightly depending on demand, but painted radiators typically take around 14 working days for assembly and dispatch.

Polished radiators may take a little longer, as each section is carefully hand-polished — a much more time-intensive process than painting.

If you have a specific deadline or need your radiator urgently, please contact us on 01723 321 000, and we’ll be happy to advise on current lead times.

A. Your cast iron radiators will be delivered securely on a pallet via a lorry equipped with a tail lift. The driver will have a pallet truck to help move the delivery across flat, solid ground, and is usually happy to assist where possible.

However, please note that cast iron radiators are extremely heavy, and you will need to arrange sufficient help on-siteto carry them into your property. Depending on the size and weight of the radiator, two or three people may be requiredto move it safely.

A. Depending on the specific valve or accessory you've ordered, we may send these items separately from your cast iron radiators. Smaller, high-value items like period valves and accessories are sometimes delivered via a separate courier service, rather than being included on the radiator pallet.

We always aim to ensure both deliveries arrive on the same day, but don’t worry if your valves arrive before or after your radiators — this is completely normal and allows us to use couriers with appropriate insurance for each item type.

If you have any questions about your delivery, feel free to contact us on 01723 321 000 — we're happy to help.

A. If you experience any issues with your order or need to return an item, please contact us as soon as possible. We are committed to ensuring every customer is fully satisfied, and we’ll work quickly to resolve any problems.

For damaged or faulty items, please notify us within 48 hours of delivery and provide photographs where possible so we can assess the issue and arrange a suitable resolution.

If you wish to return a product for any other reason, our team will guide you through the returns process in line with our Returns and Refunds Policy. Please note that some custom-made or specially finished items may not be eligible for return unless faulty.

To speak to our team, call us on 01723 321 000 or email info@castironradiators.ltd.uk — we’re here to help.