Polished / Living Finishes
Each manufacturer polishes cast iron a bit differently to bring out the best of raw cast iron. All manufacturers have different styles of polish ranging from the more rustic look all the way to a mirror-like finish, as well as a highlight polish. Polishing creates a stunning finish which is also a 'living' finish, so some patina or surface rust and oxidation is expected over time. These products will not be polished in between sections or on the joining collar at the bottom of the radiator as they will be hidden under normal installation. Some brands do not polish the wall-facing sides as standard but will for an additional charge.
All polished finishes are hand-finished, so variations in the final product can occur. For those radiators which are supplied in a polished finish, they will either be oiled or lacquered. Any surface oxidation would not be considered a fault and would not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
Oiled radiators require regular minor maintenance to prevent surface oxidation or patina. This can be done with fine wire wool or metal finishing pads and a lint-free cloth, with 3 in One multipurpose oil (non-silicone based) to finish.
Lacquer will help prevent surface oxidation, however, it will not stop the patina from occurring especially if the radiator is in a humid wet room or has wet clothes or other items placed on the radiator. Patina or surface rust and oxidation can be removed with fine wire wool after taking the lacquer off first, then relacquer to complete the process.
When left without a protective coating, these materials age gracefully in their natural state. Natural patinas and graduations on the finish occur so their appearance can be expected to change over time, which is why it is referred to as the ‘living finish’. Some metal surfaces can have an altered appearance over time. Raw cast iron, unsealed copper, nickel, bronze, and brass are metals that patina. A non-ferrous metal like copper has no iron content, giving it a higher resistance to rust and corrosion. A true living finish occurs on a non-lacquered unprotected surface, that changes over time.
