We recommend using a premium Sherwin-Williams paint like ProClassic® Waterborne Interior Acrylic Enamel when painting a fireplace. This is one of the best paints for a brick fireplace, as it can withstand high temperatures, resist sagging, adhere well to the surface and provide excellent flow and leveling.
How to Paint a Brick Fireplace
If you're eager to update your fireplace and breathe new life into your living space, Sherwin-Williams has you covered. With some elbow grease, the right tools and helpful pointers from our friendly experts, you can transform your fireplace into a remarkable centerpiece worth talking about.
While painting a fireplace may seem like a daunting project, Sherwin-Williams can help guide you through the process to make it a fun and speedy makeover. Plus, we have a wide range of extraordinary paint products and quality tools to ensure success. Continue reading below to learn how to paint a brick fireplace!
STEP 1
Prepare the Surface
Like any painting project, painting a brick fireplace requires a clean surface. Use a wire brush to clean the debris from the fireplace brick and mortar, paying special attention to the mortar lines for loose material. Be sure to inspect the mortar for any necessary repairs before painting.
Once you've cleared all accessible debris with a stiff wire brush, use a shop vacuum to remove dust on and around the fireplace.
STEP 2
Clean the Brick Fireplace
After vacuuming the work area, it's essential to deep-clean the brick to remove any soot or mineral residue that could affect the primer and topcoat. We recommend using a sponge with a powerful cleaner/degreaser to wash the brick and rinsing it with water. Be sure to apply a small amount of the cleaner/degreaser in an inconspicuous area on the fireplace to check for discoloration before continuing.
Deep cleaning is crucial when painting a brick fireplace, as it prevents dirt and debris from causing your paint to chip or peel in the future.
STEP 3
Apply Primer
Once you've positioned painter's tape along the edge of your fireplace and trim, use a 1" flat, stiff bristle brush to apply Concrete and Masonry Primer in the mortar lines and any other cracks or crevices. Then, use a mini roller to cover the remaining surface area while ensuring the primer is applied as evenly as possible.
Priming a brick fireplace is particularly important because this product provides adhesion with alkali and efflorescence resistance for masonry surfaces. If you plan to use a lighter paint color, a second coat of primer may be necessary. For the best results, allow the primer to dry fully overnight.
Tip: Use painter's tape and a drop cloth to keep walls and floors clean while you work.
STEP 4
Apply Fireplace Paint
When the primer is dry, you can begin painting your brick fireplace. Start by using a 2" brush to apply fireplace paint to the mortar lines and any other cracks you notice. Next, use a mini roller to apply paint to the rest of the surface, continually ensuring you're applying the product evenly. For a longer-lasting finish, we recommend using a second coat of paint once the first coat has dried fully.
Tip: Using a roller makes painting go faster and helps you apply the product evenly.
The BEFORE & AFTER
As pictured here, the before and after results of painting a brick fireplace are stunning. Sherwin-Williams hopes this guide helps you throughout the process so that you can achieve your desired look. We're also here to help you select your ideal brick fireplace paint colors and answer any other questions that arise along the way! For more painted fireplace ideas, check out this Tinted blog post.
Tip: Always clean your brushes for future use. Learn how to properly store and dispose of paint here.
Colors We Used
Check out our most popular colors for your most important projects to develop your color palette and create like a pro.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
Project Supplies
- ProClassic® Waterborne Interior Acrylic Enamel
- LOXON Concrete & Masonry Primer/Sealer
- Purdy® Criss Cross Wire Brush
- 1" Purdy® XL® Sprig
- 2" Purdy® Nylox™ Sprig
- 6 ½" Purdy® Marathon Jumbo Mini Roller Cover
- Contractor Series® Mini Roller Plastic Tray
- Painter's tape
- Shop vacuum
- Sponge and cleaner ⁄ degreaser
Frequently Asked Questions
Primer plays a pivotal role in painting, especially when painting a brick fireplace. Using a quality primer ensures the topcoat adheres to the surface while hiding darker colors, like brick, under the topcoat.
Fireplaces can get dirty from soot and mineral residue, so it's helpful to choose a paint sheen you can clean. We recommend using a Satin, Semi-Gloss or Gloss sheen, as these are easier to clean than duller sheens. Learn more about sheens options with this guide.
If you're aiming to create a modern brick fireplace, consider painting the mantel, brick and surrounding wall the same color. For a bigger impact, utilize bold, vibrant and contemporary artwork around the fireplace.
Painting your brick fireplace can refresh your living area with relatively little effort and is typically a less expensive alternative to painting your entire room. Plus, Sherwin-Williams has plenty of colors to choose from, high-quality fireplace paint and expert advice to help along the way!
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