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With overall productivity down in light of recent events, now might be a time to start preparing for future projects.
This blog about measuring for a metal radiator cover has been updated in March 2020 with updated information and images.
We're regularly asked how to measure up for a metal radiator cover. It's a pretty straightforward exercise, but we thought it would be extremely useful if we were to post some simple instructions to help explain the process quickly and clearly.
Measuring For A Standard Floor Standing Flat Top DeepClean Radiator Guards
First of all, you will need a few basic items ready before you start;
- Tape Measure
- Pen & Paper, or even better a Contour Survey Sheet
- Camera/Camera Phone (just in case there are some tricky bits you want us to be aware of)
- A spirit level if you think the floor or wall may not be too level.
Download a copy of this survey sheet to make measuring up your radiator covers easier
Flat Top Radiator Guard Survey Sheet
Once you have got all of this to hand, you are ready to measure your radiator for a metal radiator cover.
The process is to measure the length (width) of the radiator, the height from the floor, the depth from the wall and measure up any skirtings for the factory made cutouts (this eliminates site cutting and makes your life easier when installing the radiator covers).
Step 1 - Measure Up The Guard Length / Width
Carefully measure the widest point of the radiator, this is normally from valve to valve.
Once you have measured this length, add at least 50mm to give you tolerance either side for the 20mm fixing return that the Deep Clean guard has on the frame. Write this dimension into the length box on our site survey form.
Add 50mm to the overall length of the radiator, including valves, to give enough clearance for the radiator cover to easily fit over the radiator.
Step 2 - Measure For The Cover Height
To get this measurement you need to add 50mm to the highest point of the radiator.
Always make sure you check both sides of the radiator to make sure the floor isn't running out.
If your floor isn't level we can manufacture a radiator guard with a tapered plinth to give you a level top. You may want us to survey this for you.
Measure from the floor to the top of the radiator. Always measure at both ends of the radiator to make sure that the floor is not running out.
Step 3 - Measure for The Radiator Cover Depth
For the Deep Clean guard, our standard tolerance is 65mm deeper than the deepest point of the radiator. On a 90mm deep radiator, you will have a 155mm deep guard.
The 65mm Tolerance is due to the plinth detail we have on our guard which allows the door when opened to lie flat on the floor.
Step 4 - Measuring For Skirting Cutouts
If you require a cut out for the skirting board or vinyl flooring (cap and coved) we will require the height and depth of this along with the radius of the cove so we can achieve the detail below.
If Anti-ligature we recommend the skirting be cut back and butted up to the side of the guard.
If you have surface mounted pipework then provide us with the height and depth + 10mm tolerance to each. As this will generally be covered up by Pipe boxing.
It's important to carefully the skirting board on both sides of the radiator. It isn't unusual for them to not be 100% the same!
Do You Want Us To Survey Your Radiator Guard Project?
We offer site surveys free of charge as an integral part of our comprehensive service.
Our surveyors, all having considerable installation experience, will identify the correct size and quantities of products required. They will take note of any special requirements that are necessary including cut-outs.
Modifications can then be programmed into manufacture, making the installation process more efficient. Contour’s team of surveyors can work with you to suggest innovative and alternative design modifications on your original concepts, helping you reduce installation time and costs.
To book a survey, please complete the form below
About Us
Contour produces a range of innovative, safe surface temperature systems for healthcare, education, mental health, commercial and secure sectors, working in close partnership and collaborating with architects, M&E engineers, NHS Trusts, local authorities, design consultants and contractors to deliver outstanding safe heating solutions.
Contour is the exclusive partner of BioCote® anti-microbial technology for LST and anti-ligature radiators. BioCote® additives reduce bacteria by up to 99.9% and are combined with Contour’s extensive range of colour-paints to coat products for a durable, high-quality finish.
Contour’s heating solutions offer secure, single-person quick access to radiator guard interiors for regular deep cleaning and maintenance. Each year, Contour save the NHS millions of pounds in cleaning costs, while delivering cleaner, safer environments. Contour has redefined the marketplace and is regarded by many as a design and innovation leader within the industry.
Contour’s vision is supported by a quality-first philosophy and a passionate and conscientious customer focused team who possess a ‘can-do’ attitude, taking pride in developing solutions for your heating requirements.
Contact us at:
The Mansions, 43 Broadway Shifnal
Shropshire TF11 8BB United Kingdom
+44 1952 290 498
