Transforming A Fire Surround And Hearth With Paint

Painting a marble fireplace is a simple and inexpensive way to update your living space. It is understandable to be apprehensive about painting a surface so close to fire, but because stone fireplace surrounds don't typically get very hot, you can paint them with chalk paint without worry. However, if the surround or hearth tends to get very hot, you can use heat-resistant paints that are rated for use inside fireplaces. To paint a marble fireplace, you will need to sand, prime, paint, and seal the surface.

Sanding the surface

Sanding is a crucial step, especially when working with marble, as it is naturally a slick and non-porous surface. By creating a slightly rougher texture through sanding, you improve the adhesion of the paint. This preparation helps you achieve a professional-looking finish and ensures the paint's durability.

Additionally, it is essential to sand between coats of paint. After applying the primer and allowing it to dry, lightly sand the surface again to smooth out any imperfections and create an even base for the subsequent paint coats. This step will help you achieve a flawless finish and ensure that the paint layers adhere properly to one another.

Remember to clean the surface thoroughly after sanding to remove any dust or residue. You can use a mixture of TSP (Tri-Sodium Phosphate) and water or a natural stone cleaner, depending on the level of dirt and grime accumulated. This cleaning step is vital as it ensures that the paint will properly adhere to the prepared surface, resulting in a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Cleaning the marble

Painting a marble fireplace is a simple project, but it requires proper preparation to ensure the paint adheres well and the final result looks good. The first step is to clean the marble, and this is how you do it:

Before you begin painting, it is important to clean the marble surface thoroughly. Fireplaces can accumulate soot, dirt, dust, grease, and other grime, which will prevent the paint from sticking properly. For a very dirty fireplace, use a natural stone cleaner according to the manufacturer's instructions. Do not use other cleaning products, as these can damage the marble. For a less dirty fireplace, a sponge, dish soap, and water may be sufficient.

Sanding the Marble

Sanding the marble surface is an important step to create a rougher texture that will help the paint adhere better. Use a fine-grain sandpaper (120 grit) and lightly sand the marble hearth to create a slightly rough surface. This step is important, especially for slick surfaces like marble, granite, tile, or concrete.

Degreasing the Marble

After sanding, it is a good idea to degrease the surface to remove any remaining grease or grime. You can use a product like meths (denatured alcohol) to degrease the surface. This step will ensure that the primer and paint adhere well to the marble.

Preparing the Area

Once the marble is clean and prepared, take the necessary steps to protect the surrounding area. Use drop cloths or old sheets to cover any nearby furniture or flooring that you want to protect from paint splatters. You may also want to use painter's tape to mask off any areas you don't want to paint, such as the inside of the fireplace or any adjacent walls.

Now that the marble is clean and prepared, you can move on to the next steps of priming and painting your marble fireplace.

Priming

When priming a marble fireplace, it is recommended to start with the top of the surround, then move to the sides, and finally, the hearth. This will help to reduce drips. Use a foam roller to apply the primer in thin coats, as this will create a smoother finish. Make sure to allow the primer to dry fully before applying the paint. The drying time will vary depending on the type of primer used, but it is generally a few hours.

There are a variety of primers that can be used when painting a marble fireplace. A standard primer is typically used with chalk paint, which is a common paint choice for marble fireplaces because it is not flammable. High-heat primer can be paired with high-heat paint if the fireplace gets very hot. Acid etch primer is another option, as it etches into the surface and provides an excellent base for the undercoat and topcoat to cling to.

It is important to note that some chalk paints can chip, crack, and peel when exposed to high temperatures. If the fireplace is used frequently, consider using a heat-resistant paint that is rated for use inside fireplaces. Additionally, always clean the surface of the fireplace before priming and painting to remove any soot, dirt, dust, grease, or grime that may prevent the paint from adhering properly.

Painting

Before painting, it is important to prepare the surface of the marble. Use a fine-grain sandpaper (120 grit) to lightly rough up the marble hearth. Sanding will help the paint adhere to the slick surface of the marble. Once you have finished sanding, clean the surface of the hearth with a mixture of TSP, a cleaner designed for use before painting.

Next, you will need to apply a primer. Because marble is porous and slick, priming is a must. You can use a standard primer with chalk paint, but if you are using a high-heat paint, you should pair it with a high-heat primer. Apply the primer with a foam roller, starting with the top of the surround, then the sides, and then the hearth. Allow the primer to dry for a few hours.

Once the primer is dry, it is time to paint! Stir the paint well, then apply the first coat using the same technique as when you applied the primer. Wipe away any drips with your roller as soon as you see them. Let the first coat dry for an hour, then apply a second coat. If you are using a high-heat paint, skip the topcoat, as there are no high-heat topcoats that will work on fireplaces. If you are using chalk paint, you may want to consider a protective topcoat to seal the painted marble.

Some recommended products include Rustoleum's Chalked Paint, which comes in a variety of colours and includes a protective topcoat, and Americana Decor Satin Enamels Paint in Neutral Beige, a multi-surface paint that self-seals.

Applying a topcoat

It is important to allow the topcoat to dry and cure fully before using the fireplace again. This may take a few hours or even a few days, depending on the product and usage instructions. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific guidelines on drying and curing times.

If you are using a high-heat paint, it is recommended to skip the topcoat as there are no high-heat topcoats suitable for fireplaces. Instead, you can consider using a protective lacquer as a finishing step to seal the paint and protect it from heat and wear.

Some paints, such as the Americana Decor Satin Enamels Paint mentioned earlier, are multi-surface paints that self-seal and do not require a separate topcoat. Always read the paint instructions and recommendations to determine if a topcoat is necessary.

By following these steps and allowing adequate drying and curing time, you will achieve a durable and long-lasting finish on your painted marble fireplace surround and hearth.

Frequently asked questions