I know that there are companies that sell covers to hide old beat up baseboard heaters (ie: www.go-overboard.com)
But I’m in a situation where I would like to fabricate them from wood to match some wainscot detailing, the surrounding baseboard trim, and the existing fireplace surround. I would make it about the same as the manufactured versions shown in the website above, and I know that the heat could wreak havoc on the wooden joints, but I think that if they’re detailed correctly that can be avoided.
What I’m primarily concerned about is whether this will be code approved?
Justin Fink – FHB Editorial
Replies
You are dealing with baseboard heat but what type?
If these are steam or hot water radiators if you can get enough air movement and handle the wood movement issues your all set. These units, IMHO, are pretty much inherently safe.
If these are electric heat with exposed elements, the ones that glow red and get hot enough to catch lighter materials on fire, your facing a much steeper requirement in terms of safety. Oil filled and mineral buffered units, that don't get very hot but still pose a risk if the controls and safeties fail, would be somewhere in between.
The old exposed element electric units are pretty rare. They never were very popular from what I can tell. The buffered units a bit more so.
It's water heat...I was just worried about whether the surrounding elements of the hot water pipes would get hot enough to cause any damage. But I guess they are routed through stud bays and floors without any trouble....maybe you're right.
Justin Fink - FHB Editorial
Take a look at Andy C's . He just posted some pics last week with some real nice ones.