How to Fix a Hairline Crack in a Cast Iron Radiator

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Adjustable wrench

  • Large pan

  • Dish washing liquid

  • Wire brush

  • Acetone

  • Work gloves

  • Cold-weld epoxy glue

Paint and rust can keep epoxy from sealing a cracked radiator properly.
Image Credit: Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

Cast iron radiators can produce reliable heat in buildings for decades at a time but do break down eventually. Since cast iron is such a brittle material, it is prone to cracks. A cracked radiator will begin to leak and allow hot steam or water to escape. This reduces heating efficiency and can pose a physical danger as well. You can repair a cracked, cast iron radiator with an epoxy glue made for use on metal objects.

Advertisement

Step 1

Shut off the radiator's manual control valve. Turn the large knob clockwise until it won't move any further.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Close the lock shield valve at the other end of the radiator. Remove the cap and turn the valve with an adjustable wrench until it stops.

Step 3

Remove all rugs and other furnishings from around the radiator. Place a large pan under the radiator drain valve. The drain valve is typically located at one end of the radiator and is mounted horizontally.

Step 4

Open the radiator drain valve with the adjustable wrench. Allow the water to run out of the radiator and into the pan. Close the valve once the radiator is empty.

Advertisement

Step 5

Clean the area around the hairline crack with dish washing liquid mixed with water. Use a wire brush to scrub off the surface paint, primer or rust around the crack. Wipe the bare metal with acetone to remove oil or other residue.

Step 6

Put on work gloves then mix two-part, cold-weld epoxy glue in a one to one ratio. Apply a thin coat of epoxy to the cracked area. Old House Journal recommends that the epoxy be no more than 1/32-inch in thickness. Allow the epoxy to cure for 15 hours or more before re-opening the radiator valves.

Warning

Remember that the water in the radiator may be hot so take precautions when draining the unit.

Always wear gloves when working with epoxy and avoid wiping your eyes as you're working with it.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

references & resources