Radiator during a bathroom renovation: when and how to replace it

A bathroom renovation is the ideal moment to replace the radiator too. New tiles or a changed layout can quickly make an existing radiator look out of place — and sometimes it simply does not fit in the new position.

Why replace during a renovation?

When renovating, the pipework is already open. That makes adjusting or moving the water connection relatively straightforward and cost-effective compared with a separate job later. It is also the right moment to match the radiator to the new interior.

What changes during a renovation?

A bathroom renovation typically involves:

• A new tile layout (walls, niches, built-in furniture)
• Different sanitary positions, changing available wall space
• A new interior theme — colour, style, materials

All of these affect the ideal position and format of the radiator.

Vertical or horizontal?

A renovation gives more freedom than a simple replacement:

• Vertical when limited width is available alongside new sanitary fittings
• Horizontal when wall space opens up after removing an old towel rail or baseboard heating
• A new position when the new layout frees up a better wall section

Which heating system?

Renovations increasingly coincide with a switch to a heat pump or hybrid system. If that is the case, choose aluminium: it performs better at the low flow temperatures that heat pumps use. Read more in radiator for a heat pump.

Colour and style

A renovation is a chance to make the radiator a genuine design element:

• Choose a colour that connects with the new tiles or sanitary fittings
• Consider a matte shade (soft linen, stone grey, midnight noir) for a timeless bathroom
• Think about visibility: in a small bathroom, a radiator that blends into the wall reads calmer than a strong contrast piece

More inspiration in how to choose the right radiator colour or browse the colour overview.

What does it cost?

Replacing a radiator during a renovation costs less than a standalone job later, because the pipework is already open. Expect:

• €350–€700 for the model
• €80–€200 for connection (via a plumber)
• If the connection needs to be moved: €200–€500 extra for pipework

Ask your contractor to include this in the renovation quote.

Personal advice

Not sure which model suits your new bathroom? The advice page helps you make the right choice based on room size, heating system and use.