Things You'll Need:
- Plywood, cut to size: two sides, one top
- Approximately 2 2x2's
- Small saw
- Hammer and nails
- Decorative metal sheeting or 1 roll of window screening
- Wood stain and paintbrush
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Step 1
Measure the radiator. Measure the width, height and depth—these numbers will determine the size of plywood you need. For the depth, feel free to measure well beyond the actual depth of the radiator—you can make this whatever size you like, should you desire more surface area on top.
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Step 2
Draw up your plans. Once you have the measurements, the next step is to sketch out a plan of what the cover will look like. You’re going to build it in two steps: The first will be to construct the frame; the second will be to attach the top, sides and front screen to the frame. The frame will be constructed using 2x2s upon which you will nail the sides and top. Remember to add to your measurement for the top the width of the legs of the frame, as you’ll want it to cover those pieces of wood as well.
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Step 3
Head to Home Depot, Lowe’s or a lumber yard that will cut your plywood to size. If you have a saw at home, great; otherwise, give your measurements to the wood worker and have the plywood cut to size. Plain planks of pine are best for an economical project. Also remember to purchase the screen cover. You may have to buy two or more sheets and then cut them to fit using metal snips.
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Step 4
Buy two 2x2’s. (You may need more or fewer, depending on the size of your radiator.) These will form the “frame” that holds the mesh screen in place and to which you will nail the top and the sides. It’s best to cut these yourself once you get home—you’ll have to measure once the initial pieces are put together.
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Step 5
Give all the wood a coat or two of wood stain. You can pick which color stain you prefer based on the other wood furniture and floors that you have in your house. The stain will also protect the wood from the heat that will be emanating from the radiators.
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Step 6
Build the “frame.” You need to cut four pieces: two horizontal pieces that will run the length of the radiator, and four vertical pieces that will make up each “leg.” When you nail the horizontal pieces to the vertical pieces they might feel flimsy, but don’t worry: they will firm up once you attach the sides and top.
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Step 7
Nail the sides to the frame. Make sure that the legs of the frame are the same height as the sides, line them up at the top and the bottom of the legs, and nail them in place.
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Step 8
Nail the top to the frame. Once the sides are attached to the legs, nail the top in place.
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Step 9
Nail the screen to the front of the frame. You’re done!
