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Any source for decorative steam radiator angle valve handles?

Mike T., Swampeast MO
Mike T., Swampeast MO Member Posts: 6,928
in THE MAIN WALL
Define "decorative".

With steam I would not suggest metal handles as they can become way too hot to touch. I believe the early valves used exotic wood like ebony--despite the cost--for their strength and dimensional stability.

Bakelite <I>instantly</I> replaced wood once it was available.

Comments

  • Daniel_3
    Daniel_3 Member Posts: 543


    I'm looking to replace with something more "fitting". Unless I make them myself there seems to be no source for them.
  • Supply House Rick
    Supply House Rick Member Posts: 1,399
    Burnham Classic Radiators

    Don't know about handle but the entire valve is well, Classic...

    * Van Dyke Restorers carry great looking floor flanges for Radiators www.vandykes.com/
  • Daniel_3
    Daniel_3 Member Posts: 543


    I've come across both of those sources yet the angle valve itself from ebay over in the UK goes for around 50-90 US dollars. I assume Burnham will charge the same. The bakelite is what I have now so I may try to create some wood ones from red oak.
  • Daniel_3
    Daniel_3 Member Posts: 543


    I wouldn't use metal and I was considering more along the lines of wood. I may be able to retrofit some type of rosette or something with a nice dark stain. It seems most nc thread bolts were 11/64 at least for detroit, american, and another with an "L" inscribed on the valve body.
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