It's always tricky to figure out the best way to get what you want whilst still on budget unfortunately. We got acova radiators throughout the house two years ago now and can honestly say I think they're great. They look good and do a fantastic job of keeping the house warm. I found the best prices for them were at screwfix. From what I understand the white coated radiators are actually more efficient than bare metal ones. Though don't ask me why! Acova also do an anthracite coloured ones that might provide the more authentic look you're after though? The only radiator in our house that's not acova is a tall vertical column one in the kitchen which was from bestheating.com in their Milano Windsor range. It works well but I noticed some ripples in the spray finish and also their 'white' is more of a pale dove grey which is annoying when the acova ones are a true white. If you have your heart set on genuine antique radiators then I believe there are companies that specialise in refurbishing them and provide an after care service in case of faults. Hope that helps!

Hi Wendy, we stock a large range of cast-iron styled radiators that could perhaps help you out. I understand that the original cast iron radiators are quite expensive, but the newer steel designs offer great outputs, are relatively inexpensive in comparison and look the part too. They may not be the ideal 'original' style, but they will help you to keep costs down upstairs and still provide adequate warmth and period styling, plus, we offer extensive guarantees on all of our products. Check them out here and see what we could do to help... http://www.bestheating.com/radiators/traditional-column-radiators.html Good luck with the project. John

Decor Books That's a wonderful radiator cover. Where is it from? Others in this stream have said that radiator covers reduce the heat in a room but I've heard others say it doesn't - the issue is that it takes longer to heat up a room. On that basis, I'm tempted to cover a radiator in my sitting room as even if I paint it it's intrusive and I could really do with the shelf above it to add interest below pictures.

Thanks KWG - this is not good but there is always a solution. 1. The most hassle-free and least bothersome to the plumber is to increase the thickness of the wall. For condensation issues your plasterer has raised, you should ask for 'foil-backed' plasterboard. These are vapour panels that block or limit condensation. Get the best rated one. 2. The alternative is to change your radiators to a configuration that allows the pipe to attach from behind and the valves attach from underneath (see image). It will save you a crucial 8-10cm. On this note, I've just seen that I forgot to post my link for the more detailed BTU calculator: https://www.traderadiators.com/acatalog/heating-calculator.html If you can find something that suits your heating specifications and your taste, this will mean you won't need to compromise on your vision. I hope this has been helpful. Kind regards, Faten