Brick fireplaces are standard features in many homes and are considered more utilitarian and functional than part of the interior décor. However, when you remodel a room and change the furniture and furnishing to give it a brand new look, you need to ensure that the brick fireplace receives a makeover as well. This can be done even while retaining the unique qualities and texture that a brick fireplace can bring to a room.
Dismantle the Mantel
When you decide to paint your brick fireplace and turn it into a point of interest in the room, you need to first ensure that it is made of brick and not sand stone, river rock, or granite that cannot be painted with ease. Next, you need to dismantle the mantel if you do not want to paint it. In case the mantel cannot be removed, you need to cover it with tarp or and seal it properly to protect it.
Clean
The fireplace and the bricks on the surround have to be cleaned completely and thoroughly before being painted. This is because paint will not adhere properly if the bricks are dirty. If the fireplace was used or is being used, the soot and ash will have to be removed using a strong cleaner, a hard brush, and plenty of elbow grease.
Primer
Once the fireplace has been cleaned it needs to be coated with a primer. This will prevent soot and ash as well as other dirt from sticking to the paint when the fireplace is in use. A thin coat of primer must be applied and allowed to dry before the paint is actually applied.
Roller Brush
To apply the paint you need a roller brush that works on uneven surfaces. This is because the bricks are not likely to be smooth and a roller brush meant for a smooth surface will fail to coat the bricks properly. Even after using a special roller brush you might need to use a small hand brush to fill in paint in missed spots.
Heat Proof Paint
When painting the bricks on the fireplace surround you need to use at proof paint that will not be damaged by the heat generated by the fire.
Color Choice
There are various color and texture choices for the paint. You can opt for an opaque paint finish by applying multiple coats or a washed finish by applying a single coat of paint mixed with a thinner. Paints can be glossy, matt, or normal.
Test
Before applying the paint on the entire brick surround of the fireplace, choose a spot that is not very visible, such as under the mantel, and do a test patch. Once you are satisfied with the result you can paint the entire surround evenly and quickly. The number of coats you apply will depend on the final look you want to achieve.
The interior of the fireplace should only be coated with a special heat resistant paint meant for this space.