Context

Contour was contacted by a residential care provider supporting younger adults with learning disabilities, autism and mental health conditions after experiencing problems with rusting radiator covers in one of its homes.

En-suite areas had been fitted with a mix of inappropriate materials, resulting in hygiene issues and deterioration over time. The team conducted an online search and approached three suppliers, and Contour’s site survey, expert support and competitive pricing gave the confidence to proceed.

Challenge

Several key factors needed addressed.  

1. Rusting and hygiene concerns in wet areas 

The existing guards, some made of MDF and others from less suitable metal types, had started to degrade in the humid en-suite conditions. Not only did this affect hygiene, it also undermined the finish and durability of the rooms.

2. Mix of inconsistent installations

Across the three care homes, the team had a patchwork of radiator installations, including exposed radiators, basic MDF covers and competitor LST guards. The lack of uniformity created inefficiencies for cleaning and maintenance and made future replacements harder to manage.

3. Need for confidence in specification 

While the team had provided photos and rough measurements, it accepted Contour’s offer of a free site survey to ensure sizing and specification were accurate, especially where there were quirks in layout, pipework or radiator placement.

4. Installation and project continuity 

Supply and installation was requested across all three homes in quick succession. Contour coordinated delivery and fitting back-to-back, ensuring each property was completed smoothly and without delay.

Solution

After surveying all three sites, Contour supplied and installed Covora low surface temperature radiator covers, an ideal choice for environments without anti-ligature requirements but with a focus on cleanliness, safety and value.

  • Manufactured from Zintec/Magnelis depending on the room location, to eliminate rust risk.

  • Standard grille configuration selected for airflow and ease of cleaning.

  • Bespoke sizes created for each radiator including pipework allowances.

  • Quick turnaround between order and delivery.

  • Clean, uniform appearance across all locations.

  • Fitted by Contour’s experienced installation team.

Outcome

The client has since ordered additional covers for two of the sites, extending the upgrade further, citing:

  • professionalism and speed of the service

  • accuracy of recommendations following the site visit

  • value for money, having compared three potential suppliers

  • longer-term confidence in having a consistent specification across all homes

This project highlights how Covora LST radiator covers offer an effective, long-lasting solution for residential care environments, even where anti-ligature features aren't needed.