Replies

1. 
   Eideann | Feb 02, 2020 07:03am | #1

   Glue isn't going to hurt certainly, but on butt joints it only has minimal strength. If it's still all together don't worry about it. Also you don't need to caulk the joints unless they're gappy and your looking to fill then paint or something. And even if that is the case there are better options. Stay away from the caulk.
   I assume these are covers for cast iron rads?

2. 
   G12WoodWorks | Feb 02, 2020 10:56am | #2

   Yes, these are for cast iron radiators. I plan on putting some heat reflectors under the top surfaces and on the back wall behind the radiators.

3. 
   rob_ss | Feb 03, 2020 02:34am | #3

   Screws only.
   You will gain nothing from the glue and it will make repairs much harder.

   Heat reflectors will not make any difference. The wall needs to be warmed anyway and the reflector will not slow this process significantly or put more heat out into your room. They are basically just a con. Most of the heating of your top cover comes from the contact of hot air with the materiel so adding a reflective layer there will not reduce heating of your timber either.

   'Radiators' are actually 'Convectors' for the most part and require plenty of airflow to be effective. Your top cover needs to be perforated or you must have a large gap at the top and bottom for air flow. It will do no harm per se to seal them, but you will reduce their ability to deliver heat considerably.

   Don't caulk the joints either as you will get a lot of wood movement and the caulk will look bad. Most caulk is not intended for extended use at over 50C so will perish quickly anyway. Instead plan your joints with reveals, or just accept that the gaps look way better than manky caulk.

   Ensure the finish will tolerate at least 50C - most radiators are heated to about 60C and something that close to them will come up to a similar temperature over time.