Everyone has an idea of what a standard radiator looks like, but if you’re talking about classic or contemporary styles, column radiators are the new ‘thing.’ While it is common today to see flat panel steel designs, this is very different from traditional radiators, also known as column radiators. These are becoming a popular choice again however, so what are column radiators exactly and how can you make the most of them at home?
Traditional/Victorian Radiators
Depending on your home’s aesthetic approach, finding the right fit of furniture alongside wallpaper, paint and other features can take some time to get right. For many years, radiators were just a practical part of the home that were strategically hidden behind furniture, plants, storage and more. Rather than something to look at, the white panel design would stick out and not always match the interior around them, hence why many people would creatively hide them. However, radiator design has moved forward and there are many great designs, colours and finishes available to choose from.
So, if you prefer the look of Victorian style radiators that would match your rustic room design, you now can choose this instead of a modern looking finish. The popularity of column radiators has meant they have become a more boutique, designer choice. They have more character and shape than a standard rectangular block and look great whether using a raw metal or anthracite finish or opting for a bold colour such as red or yellow.
Horizontal or Vertical Orientation
The column radiator is defined by its tubular column design with gaps in between. These used to be commonplace in many properties as they were the original design of radiators that appeared towards the end of the 19th Century. Over the years, these were slowly replaced by steel panel designs with no gaps in between which were lighter, as traditionally cast-iron was used that was much heavier. Over a hundred years later and the design of column radiators has changed slightly whilst keeping the aesthetic of Victorian radiators.
Made from lightweight steel columns, modern column radiators are much quicker to heat than the originals and can be purchased in traditional horizontal as well as vertical orientations. The hollow columns are much longer in a vertical style and make use of the space upwards rather than across the wall, ideal when you need to save space or have little to work with.
Style & Substance
Whilst they may have an old-fashioned appearance, modern column radiators benefit from all the same advances in radiator technology other designs have. From the ease of installation to your heating system to the compatibility with modern valves and smart home setups, column radiators are the best of both traditional stunning design and modern-day safety and energy efficiency. As the steel column tubes are designed to help heat the water quicker, you will not need to wait long for the right room temperature. Traditional cast-iron radiators took a long time to heat up and required much more energy to do so. Choosing modern column radiators will ensure your heating bills do not increase and stay efficient for many years.
