Leo Martínez
Painting the inside of a brick fireplace is a simple and affordable way to refresh your living space. It can be a messy job, but with the right tools and preparation, it can be completed in a single weekend. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know, from choosing the right paint to achieving a professional-looking finish. We will also discuss the benefits of painting your brick fireplace, including protection from moisture and an easier cleaning process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Relatively easy |
| Impact | High |
| Required tools | Wire brush, sponge, trisodium phosphate (TSP), vacuum, painter's tape, drop cloth, paintbrush, paint roller, gloves, safety goggles, protective eyewear, mask |
| Paint type | Heat-resistant, indoor, latex, flat, semi-gloss or gloss |
| Primer type | High-quality, acrylic latex, masonry |
| Cleaning products | Insl-X® All-Purpose Citrus Cleaner, soap and water, degreaser, trisodium phosphate (TSP) |
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What You'll Learn
Clean the bricks with a wire brush and vacuum
Before painting the inside of a brick fireplace, it is important to clean the bricks thoroughly. One way to do this is by using a wire brush and a vacuum.
Start by covering the surrounding area with a tarp or a drop cloth to protect your floor and furniture from dirt and soot. Use a stiff wire brush to scrub the bricks and mortar, paying special attention to the mortar lines to remove any loose debris. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as wire brushes can damage the bricks by removing a thin top layer of stone and mortar and leaving behind tiny pieces of wire that may rust. If your fireplace is particularly dirty, you may want to consider using a pressure washer, but be aware that old bricks may not stand up to the pressure.
Once you have removed the loose debris with the wire brush, use a shop vacuum to remove any remaining dust and dirt from the bricks and the surrounding area. This step is crucial to ensure that your paint job adheres properly and does not chip away. A vacuum with a brush attachment is ideal for this purpose.
After vacuuming, you may want to consider deep cleaning the bricks to remove any remaining soot or mineral residue. This can be done using a mixture of water and vinegar, a solution of soap and water, or a specialised cleaning product. Always do a spot test in an inconspicuous area first to check for discolouration. Apply the cleaning solution to the bricks with a sponge or brush, then rinse with clean water and allow the bricks to dry completely before priming and painting.
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Deep clean with a sponge and cleaner/degreaser
Before painting the inside of a brick fireplace, it is important to deep clean the surface to ensure the paint adheres properly and to prevent dirt and debris from causing the paint to chip or peel in the future.
First, put on personal protective equipment (PPE) to avoid breathing in dust or getting particles in your eyes. Use a sponge with a powerful cleaner/degreaser to wash the brick. Be sure to test the cleaner/degreaser in a small, inconspicuous area first to check for discoloration. You can try Insl-X® All-Purpose Citrus Cleaner—a biodegradable, phosphate-free concentrate that you dilute with water to your desired strength—or a solution of soap and water.
Thoroughly rub the cleaner into the entire brick surface with a sponge, then wipe it with a clean sponge and fresh water. If any soot or other residue remains, a degreaser or trisodium phosphate (TSP) can be used for a deeper clean. Trisodium phosphate is a powerful cleaning agent that can remove heavy grime and soot. Always wear gloves, eye protection, and a mask when using TSP.
Finally, rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water and let it dry completely before moving on to the next step, which is priming. Bricks are porous and absorb a lot of water, so allow them to dry for 24 hours before priming and painting.
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Tape off edges and apply primer
Before you begin priming your brick fireplace, it's important to thoroughly clean the brick and mortar to ensure your primer adheres properly. Use a wire brush to scrub the brick surface and mortar lines, paying special attention to the lines to remove any loose debris. If there are any repairs to be made to the mortar, do so before proceeding. Once you've cleared all accessible debris, use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust from the surface and surrounding floor.
Now it's time to give the brick a deep clean to remove any accumulated soot or other mineral residue that could affect the primer and topcoat. Try a biodegradable, phosphate-free concentrate that you dilute with water, or a solution of soap and water. Be sure to do a spot test first in an inconspicuous area to check for discoloration. To wash the front of the fireplace, thoroughly rub the cleaner into the entire brick surface with a sponge, then wipe it with a clean sponge and fresh water. If any soot or other residue remains, a degreaser or trisodium phosphate (TSP) can be used for a deeper clean. Bricks are porous and absorb a lot of water, so allow them to dry for 24 hours before priming.
Once the brick is clean and dry, it's time to tape off any edges you want to keep paint-free and apply the primer. Use painter's tape to tape off the edges of your fireplace and trim. When selecting a primer, a high-quality acrylic latex primer is recommended. Use a paintbrush to prime all the mortar lines between the bricks, being careful not to leave any spots unprimed. Then, use a roller to prime the face of the brick fireplace. A roller with a thick-nap roller cover will give you the best coverage, depending on the texture of your brick. A second coat of primer may be necessary, especially if you are using a light paint colour, as this will prevent any remaining soot or mineral staining from leaching through. For best results, let the primer dry overnight. A roller extension pole can be useful for reaching higher areas of a floor-to-ceiling fireplace.
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Use a roller to apply paint
Painting the inside of a brick fireplace can be a simple and affordable way to refresh your living space. After you've cleaned the brick surface and applied the primer, it's time to start painting. Using a roller to apply paint to the face of the bricks is a quick and efficient method that helps you achieve an even finish. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a roller to paint the inside of your brick fireplace:
Choose the Right Roller:
Select a roller with a thick-nap roller cover. A 1/2 inch nap roller cover will give you good coverage, but you can also use a 3/8 inch nap roller if your bricks have a smoother texture. A mini roller is ideal for fireplace painting as it helps you manoeuvre around the bricks more easily.
Prepare the Paint:
Ensure you have chosen the appropriate paint for a brick fireplace. Acrylic latex paint is generally the best choice as it is durable, easy to clean, and allows the brick to breathe. The paint should be specifically formulated for masonry or brick surfaces to ensure better adhesion and longevity.
Start Rolling:
Begin by dipping the roller into the paint tray, ensuring it is well-coated but not overloaded with paint. Start applying the paint to the face of the bricks, working in sections to maintain a wet edge. Work from the top of the fireplace downwards, using an extension pole for higher areas if needed.
Maintain an Even Finish:
Continuously check that you are applying the paint evenly. Use long, smooth strokes with the roller, overlapping each section slightly to ensure a consistent finish. Pay attention to the edges and corners, using a smaller brush to paint these areas first if necessary.
Allow to Dry and Apply Second Coat:
Once you have completed the first coat, allow it to dry thoroughly according to the paint manufacturer's instructions. For a longer-lasting finish, apply a second coat of paint in the same manner, ensuring an even and consistent application.
Remember to work in a well-ventilated area when painting your fireplace, as paint fumes can be strong. Always refer to the paint manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines for the best results and to ensure your own safety.
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Choose the right paint for your desired outcome
Painting the inside of a brick fireplace is a great way to refresh your living space. The right paint for your fireplace will depend on the desired outcome.
If you're looking for a crisp, modern look, a whitewashed brick fireplace is a classic choice. White is the most popular colour for painting brick fireplaces, and for good reason—it can brighten a room, making it feel more spacious and inviting. Other light colours can have a similar effect, while darker hues can create a cosy, intimate atmosphere.
If you want to make a bold statement, a black-painted fireplace can add drama to your space. You can also consider painting the inside of the fireplace black to cover old brick.
Regardless of the colour, it's important to use a high-quality paint that is specifically designed for brick surfaces. Acrylic latex paint is generally the best choice for brick fireplaces as it is durable, easy to clean, and allows the brick to breathe, preventing moisture issues. Look for paints that are rated for high temperatures and designed for brick surfaces.
It's also important to use a primer to ensure that the paint adheres well and lasts longer. A good primer will seal the fireplace's surface, creating a uniform base for the paint. A high-quality acrylic latex primer, such as Fresh Start® High-Hiding All-Purpose Primer or Insl-X® Aqua Lock®, is recommended. For brick fireplaces, a masonry primer is best as it provides adhesion with alkali and efflorescence resistance.
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