How Would Heat From Radiator Affect Leather?

[nkante]

New guy here. Thanks for the add.

I want to make a custom radiator cover and I would like to use leather in the project. One idea is to weave old belts with lots of space between them to let the heat pass. My next idea is to make a cover panel from cowhide with lots of big grommets to let the heat pass. My question is how will the heat affect the material? Will it cause it to dry out and crack?Will it shrink and change the shape?

[Tree Reaper]

I'm assuming this would be a hot water radiator?

Depending on the humidity, you could see some mold during the summer if the cover is left on.

Chemicals in the leather could be released as it is being heated so that may be a concern.

It will dry out over time and may start to crack if not treated with oils and then you would be heating the oil and releasing those chemicals into the surrounding area.

Probably not a good idea if it's for a confined space like a bedroom, health wise.

[nkante]

Thank you for the reply.

[Rayban]

I agree, not a goof idea......assuming it's a working radiator, the leather would dry out, twist, crack...get pretty ugly in no time.