If I may ask (and this isn't a critique, I'm just curious), what is it about
water cooling that you don't like?
Yeah, that's the only thing that sticks out to me a bit, good to see you're on
top of it. I have actually seen it being painted red by a few people, it might
actually be worth a shot. I think the crucial part would be to get the right
shade of red (which would probably a bit of a trial and error thing with the
light behind it and all that) and making the coat even so that it doesn't
look weird when it's lit and an equal part of light comes through the paint
across the entire surface. Besides, if the result does not satisfy you, you
could always sand it down a second time.
As for the lacing, if you're not super clumsy it's actually not very difficult,
though it will take a little time to do, so if that's not your cup of tea that's
OK of course. Great to see people are so enthusiastic about it though,
that's awesome!
Oh yes, before I forget: I do rather like it overall, the H440 really does make
for very clean builds.