Painting a Fireplace: A Step By Step Guide
Painting a fireplace is a powerful way to give new life to that space. Read on for a step-by-step guide on doing it right, and guidance on choosing the perfect paint color.
Considerations When Choosing Your Fireplace Paint
Room Size and Light
If your fireplace is in a small or dark room, consider a lighter color, such as white, cream, or soft gray. This can help the space feel more open and inviting.
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For larger or brighter rooms, it’s often best to go with a darker tone, such as charcoal, navy, or black, to add a touch of drama while giving the area a focal point.
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Fireplace Texture
Different fireplace surfaces work best with different colors. Smooth brick does well with a strong color in a sleek finish, while rougher surfaces tend to look better with softer tones that highlight the texture.
Heat and Durability
Make sure to use high-quality latex interior paint (or even high-heat paint if you’re painting the firebox). It’s usually best to go with a semi-gloss or satin finish, both of which are easier to clean.
Existing Palette
Take note of the colors of your walls, flooring, furniture, photography, and art. Your fireplace color should complement those elements rather than competing.
For example, if your walls are a neutral color, your fireplace color could serve as a bold accent. If your walls already provide strong color, it’s best to go with a softer shade for the fireplace.
Style and Mood
Consider the kind of atmosphere you want to create. If you’re going for something modern and minimalist, go with a crisp white, matte black, or a cool gray. For a cozier, more traditional vibe, consider warm taupes, earthy browns, or deep reds. If you want to set an eclectic tone, make your fireplace a statement piece with a bolder color.
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With all the above in mind, it’s crucial to sample a range of colors to make sure you find just the right hue for you. Luckily, Samplize makes that simple.
Sampling Colors With Samplize
Our large-format, mess-free, peel-and-stick paint samples make it easy to choose the ideal color for your fireplace and space. Here’s how it works.
1. Explore the Possibilities
Start by going here and browsing our huge collection of colors from leading brands like Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams. Place your order, and your large-format peel-and-stick samples will arrive on your doorstep the very next day.
2. Peel and Stick
Every one of your samples will be painted (not printed) with two coats of real paint, so you’ll be able to really see how each shade actually looks on your fireplace. Make sure to test one sample on an inconspicuous spot first and then feel free to apply them all side by side.
3. Choose With Confidence
Take your time to note how each shade behaves in various conditions. Turn the lights on and off. Close and then open the blinds or curtains. Wait for sunrise, midday, and sunset. Ask friends and family for their favorites. If after all that you still haven’t found your ideal fireplace color, just repeat these easy steps until you do.
Everything You'll Need to Paint Your Fireplace
Once you have your color, you’re ready to gather your tools and supplies. Here’s everything you’ll need.
Prep and Protection
- Drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect your floor and furniture.
- Painter’s tape to help make edges clean and sharp.
- A wire brush for scrubbing away soot and debris.
- A shop vac to remove more stubborn soot and debris.
- Mild soap and water or a trisodium phosphate cleaner to remove greasy and smoky residue.
- Medium or fine grit sandpaper to help your paint and primer to bond with your fireplace’s surface.
Priming and Painting
- Masonry primer for brick or stone or bonding primer for wood.
- High-quality, heat-resistant paint—latex for brick or stone, enamel for wood or mantel.
- Angled paint brushes for edges and straight brushes for wider areas.
- Paint rollers with covers suited for textured surfaces.
- A small foam roller for smoother finishes.
Extras for a Smoother Process
- A paint tray with liners for easier clean up.
- An extension pole if your fireplace is tall.
- Gloves and old clothes.
Ready, Set, Paint.
1. Prep the Space
- Cover furniture or move it out of the way.
- Lay down drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect your floor.
- Tape around edges, walls, and trim with painter’s tape.
2. Clean the Surface
- Use your wire brush and vacuum to remove dirt, soot, and residue.
- Wash the surface with warm soapy water or a masonry cleaner.
- Rinse with clean water and let it dry for 24 hours.
3. Address Any Flaws
- Fill any cracks or gaps with fireplace-safe mortar or caulk. Let it cure according to product directions.
4. Prime the Brick
- Use a masonry primer or stain-blocking primer.
- Apply with a roller (thick nap for textured brick) and use a brush for grout lines.
- Let it dry fully.
5. Paint
- Use a latex interior paint in eggshell, satin, or semi-gloss for easy cleaning.
- For the firebox, use a high-heat stove paint.
- Apply at least two thin coats, giving each one time to dry according to manufacturer instructions.
6. Wrap Up
- To avoid peeling, carefully peel painter’s tape before the final coat fully cures.
- Let the paint cure for a few days before decorating.
Finishing Touches
Once the paint is dry, you’re ready to finish revitalizing the space. Here are some finishing touches to consider.
1. Mantel Decoration
Start with a large mirror, piece of art, or clock to anchor the space, and then add smaller complementary elements. Consider candles or lanterns to add warmth and layered light. A trailing plant or vase of flowers are great for softening a fireplace’s rigid lines.
2. Hearth Styling
Baskets are great for keeping cozy blankets and pillows on hand. You can also use one to store logs, even if they’re strictly decorative. Consider placing floor lamps or tall candleholders on either side of the fireplace to create some symmetry and add soft light.
3. Lighting and Atmosphere
Adding various light sources is a great way to make the atmosphere of the space more versatile. Wall sconces can draw the eye to your freshly painted fireplace, while fairy lights draped along the mantel can add a touch of inviting whimsy.
4. Practical Touches
Whether it’s black metal, brass, or glass, you’ll want a fireplace screen that works well with your new color. Also consider adding a nice set of fireplace tools (again, even if they’re only for decoration).
Ready to Start?
Click here to explore the many possibilities, sample your favorites, and choose your perfect color with confidence.
