If your fireplace has seen better days, you don't have to replace it with a new one. Instead, you can give it a makeover to make it look brand new and up-to-date. You can do this by painting the bricks. You can make this a DIY project to save money and get it done in one weekend.
Tools and Materials Needed
- One wire brush
- Paint brush
- Drop cloth
- Heat-resistant paint for the inside bricks
- Shop vacuum
- Old rags
- White vinegar and spray bottle
- Paint for outside fireplace bricks in the color of your choice
Clean it Out
Before you get started, you must remove any wood, doors, and mesh from the fireplace so everything is accessible to paint. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions on how to properly remove the door and/or mesh for your fireplace. When you remove the wood, vacuum up any ashes and soot using a shop vac.
Clean the Bricks
Each brick must be completely clean before you paint it. To do this, lay down the drop cloth in front of the fireplace, and use the wire brush to remove all of the soot, dirt, and dust from the brick. Make sure you clean both the inside and outside of the fireplace. When you are finished, remove the drop cloth and vacuum the area with the shop vac to remove any debris that got onto the floor.
Wash the Bricks
Now that all of the soot and dirt is removed from the fireplace brick, it is time to wash it. Fill up a spray bottle with half vinegar and half water, and then shake it up to mix it. Spray this onto the brick, and then use a clean rag to wipe it off. This will remove any residue that is on the brick so the paint is able to adhere to it. Make sure you wash both the outside and inside bricks.
Paint the Inside Bricks
Purchase heat resistant paint from any home supply store. Use the paintbrush to paint the bricks inside of the fireplace. Let the first coat completely dry. Add a second coat if you prefer.
Paint the Outside Bricks
When the inside of the fireplace is painted, you can paint the rest of the brick with the paint color you chose. Because brick is porous, push the paintbrush into the holes to make sure the entire surface is painted. When you finish, let it dry completely, and you can then apply a second coat if needed.
Now that you have painted your brick fireplace, it should look new and refreshed to you. If you decide that you would like some professional assistance, contact CambellCare fireplace for more information.
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