Painting a fireplace

Re: Painting a Fireplace
Asked by Bobby

Question:
Hello Everyone.  I am in the process of painting my brick fireplace.  I have already given it 3 coats of masonry approved primer and will probably apply a white low sheen enamel to finish it off.  I was just wondering if there is something that I can then seal the paint with in order to make it durable and scratch resistant?  I appreciate any help or advice I can get.  Thank you.

My Advice:

Folks with brick fireplaces often complain about how ugly they find the brick. Especially when they are redecorating and bringing new, light colors into the room, the dark and drab brick surface can be a major obstacle. A particular fireplace may not look like it has been used in quite some time, but whether or not you actually use yours, you might find that painting the brick surround can really add some light to the room. If the fireplace is purely decorative, or has been put out of commission, you might want to paint the inner firebox as well as the surround. If the fireplace is still functional, however, keep the paint job to the surfaces outside of the firebox.

Shopping List

Sandpaper
Masonry primer or conditioner
Latex paint
Paintbrush
Paint tray, roller and roller cover

Pick the Color

You can use your fabrics in furniture, throw pillows or rugs as inspriation and then choose paint colors to complement the fabric. For instance you could use a cream color from your fabric as inspiration for one of the paint colors in the room, including for use on the fireplace. This design decision will ensure that the finished fireplace will feel very much a part of the room. You could also paint the fireplace a different color than the surrounding wall if you want to emphasize it. If you want to de-emphasize the fireplace, however, one way to do so would be to paint it the same color as the surrounding surfaces.  The typical fireplace surround is an elevated brick hearth and modest-sized brick mantel with a small shelf. One may chose to paint all of the brick, as well as the shelf, the same color.

Prepare the Brick

Go over the entire surface with a wire bristle brush to scruff it up a little and remove any loose bits of mortar. If the brick was painted before, scrap off any loose paint. Scrub the surface with soap and water or TSP and a stiff brush, and then rinse the soap as best as you can. Let the surface dry thoroughly and then finish cleaning with a good vacuuming.

Prime the Surface

Paint manufacturers offer primers and paints for just about every surface imaginable. Some manufacturers make sealers or conditioners that they recommend for an initial coat over bare brick. It is always best to talk with a knowledgeable paint dealer for advice on the best products to use for your specific need. At the very least, look for an interior latex primer that is suitable for use on brick and other masonry surfaces. Latex is able to move and breathe without cracking, making it ideal for a porous material like brick. In most cases, a single coat of primer should be sufficient. If you have a large surface to cover, you can use a roller to speed up the job. A roller pad with a fairly thick nap (3/4 in. or 1 in.) will work best and a package of cheap sponge brushes on the wooden stick will get into the joints. But for most fireplaces, a large paintbrush will do the job almost as quickly. Allow the primecoat to dry.

Use a good quality acrylic latex paint for your topcoat. Plan to apply at least two coats, and even more if the fireplace is used frequently.

When the paint has dried, you may want to add some cut flowers and a mirror or framed painting to any shelves or some decorative items around the hearth. But wait a few weeks before doing so, as latex paint needs plenty of time to fully cure.

A Weathered Alternative

If you would like to create a rustic, weathered look on your brick fireplace rather than a solid color, here's how to do so. Begin by preparing the brick as described above. Then mix one part of water with two parts of semi-gloss latex paint. Spread a thin coat of the paint on the brick using a paint roller, and then immediately wipe off some of the paint with a sponge or clean rag. Rinse the sponge or rag in clean water before each use. Allow the surface to dry. If the color is too light, repeat the process one more time.

In Conclusion

Sounds to me like you have covered the steps well and you should be just fine with the product you have produced.  I think I would get a nice comfy blanket and now that fall is upon us begin to enjoy the new found ambiance you have created!

Sincerely,

James D. Van Raden

Owner~ Paragon Renovations

www.paragonrenovations.net

www.paragonbathrooms.com