How To Paint A Brick Fireplace

Considering painting your fireplace? Painted fireplaces are the new trend for homeowners and we are loving the looks of it!

Check out these inspirational ideas and learn how to paint your fireplace yourself and what equipment you need to get started!

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Are painted fireplaces trendy?

Some people believe that painted fireplaces add a modern and updated look to a space, while others prefer the natural look of brick or stone.

In recent years, there has been a trend towards lighter, more neutral colors in interior design, and this has led to an increase in the popularity of painted fireplaces.

Neutral shades like white, gray, or beige can help to create a clean, timeless look that complements a variety of decor styles.

Why are people painting their fireplaces?

People paint their fireplaces for a variety of reasons, including:

To update the look of their fireplace: Painted fireplaces can help to modernize and update the look of an older fireplace, making it more stylish and attractive.
To change the color: Painting a fireplace allows the homeowner to change the color of the brick or stone to match the surrounding decor or to add a pop of color to a neutral room.
To hide damage or blemishes: If a fireplace has become discolored, stained, or damaged over time, painting it can be an effective way to hide these imperfections and restore the appearance of the fireplace.
To increase energy efficiency: A painted fireplace can reduce heat loss through the chimney and increase the energy efficiency of the home.
To protect the surface: Painted fireplaces can protect the surface of the brick or stone from damage caused by heat, soot, and ash, extending the life of the fireplace.

Can you paint a fireplace yourself?

Yes, it is possible to paint a fireplace yourself, but it does require some time, patience, and preparation.

Is it hard to paint a fireplace?

The difficulty of painting a fireplace can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the fireplace, the condition of the surface, and the type of paint being used.

Some fireplaces may be simple to paint, while others may require more time, effort, and preparation.

Here are a few things to consider:

Surface preparation: Cleaning the fireplace surface and filling any cracks or holes can be time-consuming and messy.
Painting technique: Applying an even, smooth coat of paint to a fireplace can be challenging, especially if the surface is irregular or has intricate details.
Drying time: It is important to allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next, which can take several hours or more.
Heat-resistant paint: It is important to choose a paint that is heat-resistant and safe for use on fireplaces, which may be more expensive or difficult to find than regular paint.

Overall, painting a fireplace can be a DIY project for those with some experience and patience, but it can also be a challenging task for those who are not familiar with painting or home improvement projects.

If you are unsure about your ability to paint a fireplace, it may be best to consult with a professional.

What equipment do I need to paint my fireplace?

Here is a list of some of the equipment you may need to paint your fireplace:

Sandpaper: To rough up the surface of the fireplace and prepare it for painting.
Clean cloths or rags: To clean the surface of the fireplace and remove any dirt or dust.
Putty knife: To fill any cracks or holes in the surface of the fireplace.
Primer: To prime the surface of the fireplace and help the paint adhere.
Paintbrush: To apply the primer and paint to the surface of the fireplace.
Heat-resistant paint: To ensure the safety of the fireplace and provide a durable finish.
Roller: To apply an even coat of paint to the larger areas of the fireplace.
Paint tray: To hold the paint and make it easier to apply.
Painters tape: To protect areas that should not be painted, such as the fireplace mantel or surround.
Drop cloth: To protect the floor and surrounding area from paint drips and spills.

These are the basic tools that you will need to paint your fireplace.

You may also need additional equipment, such as a ladder or scaffolding, depending on the height of your fireplace.

Where to buy fireplace paint?

You can buy fireplace paint at home improvement stores such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and eBay.

It is important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and instructions before purchasing the paint, as some fireplaces may require special paint or treatments.

Additionally, you may also want to consider purchasing any necessary tools or accessories, such as paint brushes, rollers, drop cloths, and sandpaper, at the same time to ensure you have everything you need for the job.

Where to buy black fireplace paint?

Black fireplace paint can be purchased at many home improvement stores such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and eBay.

You can search for specific brands, such as Rust-Oleum, or for products specifically marketed as fireplace paint or high-heat paint.

It is important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and instructions before purchasing the paint, as some fireplaces may require special paint or treatments.

What is high heat paint for fireplace?

High heat paint for fireplaces is a type of paint specifically designed to withstand the high temperatures produced by a fireplace.

This type of paint is formulated to resist cracking, peeling, and fading due to heat exposure, and to not emit harmful fumes into the living space.

High heat paint is typically used to paint the interior of fireplaces, firebox, and chimneys, as well as on other surfaces that are exposed to high heat, such as wood stoves, barbecues, and furnace flues.

It is important to choose a high heat paint that is specifically designed for the surface you are painting and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

Is inside fireplace paint different from exterior fireplace paint?

Yes, inside fireplace paint is different from exterior fireplace paint.

Inside fireplace paint is designed to withstand the high temperatures produced by a fireplace, while exterior fireplace paint is designed to withstand the elements.

The inside fireplace paint is formulated to be heat resistant and to not emit harmful fumes into the living space, while exterior fireplace paint is formulated to be weather resistant and durable.

It’s important to choose the right type of paint for your specific needs to ensure a safe and long-lasting finish.

What are the steps to paint a fireplace?

Here are the general steps for how to paint a fireplace:

Preparation: Clean the fireplace surface thoroughly and let it dry completely. If necessary, use sandpaper to rough up the surface to help the paint adhere better. Cover the surrounding area with drop cloths to protect your flooring or carpeting.
Priming: Apply a high-heat primer designed specifically for use on fireplaces. Let the primer dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Painting: Using a brush, roller, or sprayer, apply the high-heat paint to the fireplace in thin, even coats. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times between coats. Depending on the type of paint and the conditions, it may take several coats to achieve a smooth, even finish.
Touch-Up: After the final coat has dried completely, inspect the fireplace for any missed spots or drips. Touch up these areas with additional paint as needed.
Clean Up: Once the paint is dry, carefully remove the drop cloths and clean up any paint that has dripped onto them. Clean and store your brushes, rollers, and other tools according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Jenna’s Pro Tip: Before you begin painting your fireplace, it is important to make sure the paint and primer you use are specifically designed for high-heat applications, such as fireplaces, and are safe for use with your type of fireplace.

Additionally, be sure to follow all manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions, including proper ventilation and protective clothing.

Painting a brick fireplace can be a simple DIY project if you follow these steps:

Clean the brick: Use a stiff-bristled brush and a solution of equal parts water and vinegar to scrub the brick clean. Rinse with water and let it dry completely.
Repair cracks and chips: Fill any cracks or chips with mortar, and let it dry completely. Sand the area smooth with sandpaper.
Prime the brick: Apply a primer designed for masonry surfaces to the brick. Be sure to cover all areas, including the mortar, completely. Let the primer dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to paint fireplace brick: Apply two coats of paint, letting the first coat dry completely before applying the second. Use a paintbrush for tight spots and a roller for larger areas. Be sure to cover the entire surface, including the mortar, completely.
Seal the paint: Once the paint has dried completely, apply a clear sealer to protect the paint and extend its life.

Jenna’s Pro Tip: Some bricks may have a porous surface that may require more than one coat of primer or paint.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the paint to dry completely before adding additional coats.

Before and After Images of White Washing A Brick Fireplace

Check out the image below of my brick fireplace in my living room after I whitewashed it!

How to paint a stone fireplace

Painting a stone fireplace can give it a fresh and updated look. Here are the steps you can follow to paint a stone fireplace:

Clean the stone: Use a stiff-bristled brush and a solution of equal parts water and vinegar to scrub the stone clean. Rinse with water and let it dry completely.
Repair cracks and chips: Fill any cracks or chips with an appropriate filler, and let it dry completely. Sand the area smooth with sandpaper.
Prime the stone: Apply a primer designed for masonry surfaces to the stone. Be sure to cover all areas, including the grout, completely. Let the primer dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Paint the stone: Apply two coats of paint, letting the first coat dry completely before applying the second. Use a paintbrush for tight spots and a roller for larger areas. Be sure to cover the entire surface, including the grout, completely.
Seal the paint: Once the paint has dried completely, apply a clear sealer to protect the paint and extend its life.

Jenna’s Pro Tip: Some stones may have a porous surface that may require more than one coat of primer or paint.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the paint to dry completely before adding additional coats.

It is also important to choose the right type of paint and primer for the specific type of stone you have in your fireplace.

Painted fireplace ideas

Here are some painted fireplace ideas that you can consider:

Neutral colors:

A neutral color such as white, cream, or light gray can give your fireplace a timeless and classic look.

These colors also have the advantage of being versatile and easy to match with any decor style.

Check out this brick fireplace in the process of being painted white:

Bold colors:

If you want to make a statement, consider painting your fireplace in a bold color such as navy blue, deep red, or emerald green.

These colors work well in contemporary or eclectic spaces.

Two-tone:

For a more interesting look, consider painting the fireplace surround one color and the interior or hearth a contrasting color.

This can create a beautiful focal point in the room.

Check out this gorgeous modern painted brick fireplace:

Accent wall:

Use your fireplace as an accent wall by painting it a bold color that matches your decor.

This can add a pop of color to your room and draw the eye to the fireplace.

Check out this black painted brick fireplace:

Ombre:

Create an ombre effect by painting the fireplace with a gradient of colors, starting with the darkest color at the bottom and lightening as you go up.

This can be a fun and modern way to update your fireplace.

Textured finish:

For a unique look, consider adding a textured finish to your painted fireplace. This can be achieved with a textured paint or by adding a texture medium to your paint.

Remember to always use high-quality paint and primer, and let each coat dry completely before applying the next.

With a little creativity and effort, you can give your fireplace a beautiful and updated look that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Comment your questions and experiences below! We would love to hear your insights!

Until next time…

Cheers Lovelies!