Radiator Guards for a Private Property in Bournemouth

Project: Private Residence with 3:1 Care, Bournemouth 

Product: Two DeepClean radiator guards (one in Magnelis), two padded radiator guards 

Challenges: Insufficient strength of old guards, complex care needs, restricted fitting space 

Solutions: Bespoke DeepClean and padded radiator guards, upgraded grille durability, tailored sizing

Outcome: Stronger, safer, and easier-to-clean guards that improve safety and daily care routines 

Background

Contour was approached by the family of an adult man with complex needs living at a home in Bournemouth. The property was fitted with padded radiator guards that had been in place since childhood, but as the individual grew into adulthood, they were no longer suitable. The guards were being torn from the wall, creating safety hazards and increasing the risk of exposure to hot surfaces.

The individual requires 3:1 care - a reflection of the high level of supervision and support required. Radiator protection needed to be significantly more robust and securely fixed, while remaining safe, cleanable, and appropriate for the home environment.

The original guards featured mesh grille panels, which became weak points over time making them easy to tear and ultimately unsuitable for continued use.

The Challenges

Several key factors needed to be addressed for this project:

1. Insufficient Strength of Old Guards

The padded guards with mesh grilles could be pulled away easily, offering little resistance or long-term durability. 

2. Restricted Room Layouts 

Windowsills, plug sockets, and surrounding furniture limited available space for guard placement, requiring careful design and precise sizing.

3. High-Level Care Requirements (3:1 Support)

The individual’s complex needs meant the solution had to prioritise both personal safety and peace of mind for carers.

Solution Implemented

After an initial phone call, Contour requested rough radiator measurements and supporting photos. Using this information, a preliminary quote was issued, accounting for tolerances and layout limitations.

Following further discussions and review of the space constraints, we recommended a full site survey to ensure the final guards would be accurate and easy to install. The specification included:

• Two DeepClean radiator guards, including one in Magnelis for the bathroom to ensure long-term corrosion resistance

• Two upgraded padded radiator guards, built with metal grilles to replace the vulnerable mesh design and withstand tampering

• Custom sizing to accommodate the window reveals and nearby electrical outlets

• A purple finish, recommended by Contour after reviewing images of the current setup, later confirmed as the individual’s favourite colour, much to the customer’s delight

While we provided installation pricing, the family opted to have their trusted handyman fit the guards; someone the individual was already familiar with, which supported a smoother transition.

Customer Feedback

“The radiator guards arrived as promised and [my son] is VERY happy with them. They were fitted by a qualified tradesman (who is a friend of ours) and are solid and so much easier to clean. As they are so secure, the carers do not have to worry when [my son] goes near them. This means he can move around more freely and the carers can relax a bit more, which makes it more pleasant for everyone.

I really do appreciate all your help.”

Conclusion

This project demonstrates how Contour can tailor heating safety products to meet the specific needs of individuals. The switch from outdated mesh-fronted guards to durable DeepClean and padded units with metal grilles provided a secure, hygienic, and visually appropriate solution.

By considering everything from environmental constraints to personal preferences, Contour delivered a result that enhanced both safety and quality of life for the individual and those who support him.