How can i paint my radiator gold?

Question

i have an old metal radiator that i want to paint gold. I know i need a heat resistant paint, but would something like gold leaf work? does anyone have any suggestions?

Answer 1

Gold leaf is actually thin sheets of gold that is hammered onto the metal.  It is trasferred onto the object being covered with gold leaf.  It might work, but at current gold prices, I couldn't afford to try it.

You can buy heat resistant paint in aerosol cans.  Such paint is generally made for high temperature applications such as barbecue grills or automobile engines.  As such, you are unlikely to find metallic gold.  

Are your sure that you want to paint it gold?  It will make it stand out, and most people try to make their radiators less obvious.  I am providing a link that shows a radiator cover project.  Additional projects are shown at links under the heading "Related Articles".

Answer 2

Gold leaf is a solution albeit an expensive one, I would consult your local hardware store, or an experienced painter and decorator to see if they can produce a cheaper option.

Answer 3

You don't need heat resistant paint.  Any latex will work.  All my radiators are painted with it.  Just do the proper prep.