Give Your Stone Fireplace a New Look with Paint
Revitalize an outdated rock or brick fireplace with a fresh coat of paint. Learn the simple steps to refresh your space.
By Toby Wood4 steps
An outdated brick or stone fireplace can dominate a room in a negative way. Even after other renovations, a red or yellow fireplace may still make the space feel old-fashioned. Painting it is a quick and modern solution, and with the right paint, you'll get strong adhesion that requires minimal maintenance. Updating this focal point might be all you need to make the entire room feel refreshed.
_(By the way, if you like the floor in these photos, learn how to_DIY acid stain a concrete floor here!
Step 1: Clean Your Fireplace
Begin by ensuring the fireplace is clean and free of any debris that could prevent the paint from sticking.
Wipe it down with a dry cloth to remove loose dust, then dampen the cloth and go over it again. If necessary, use a cleaning product to eliminate tougher dirt.
Step 2: Paint the Fireplace
Selecting the right paint is crucial for an easy process. Finishes that are flatter than satin won't adhere well to rock and will chip or flake. Opt for satin, gloss, or high gloss to achieve strong bonding. Also, pick a paint with primer included to skip a step—especially helpful for a surface with many dips and crevices.
Start with the roller. Often, simply dipping and turning the roller into the rock's divots will reach difficult spots, so take your time to cover them.
Step 3: Apply Final Coats
If you chose a darker color than the original rock, one coat may suffice. If you're going lighter, a second coat might be needed. Again, apply with the roller first.
Inspect the fireplace carefully, as you'll likely find small unpainted areas or drips. Touch them up with your paintbrush as needed.
Step 4: Apply Protective Coating (Optional)
If you're not satisfied with the sheen after completion, applying a sealant or coating can alter it. Polyurethane comes in various finishes and provides extra protection if desired. Brush or wipe on the coating following the manufacturer's instructions.
The new color transformed the space so dramatically, it's almost hard to believe! A fixture that's been in the home for over 50 years looks nearly new and definitely more modern.
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