Fireplace Glow-Up: How to Paint Your Fireplace Surround Like a Pro
A fireplace is more than just a heat source—it’s the heart of the room, the place where you cozy up on chilly nights, and the focal point of your living space. But if yours is looking a little… uninspired, don’t worry! A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in transforming your fireplace surround and giving your space an instant style boost. This guide will take you through the process, step by step, so you can give your fireplace the makeover it deserves.
Prep Like a PRO
Before you dive into painting, gather your tools:
- Cleaning Supplies – Rag, brush, and a 50/50 mix of water and vinegar in a spray bottle
- Painter’s Tape – To protect areas you don’t want to paint
- Paintbrushes & Rollers – A thick-textured roller works best for brick
- Primer – Oil-based and stain-resistant (a must for fireplace surrounds!)
- Heat-Resistant Paint – Indoor latex, rated for high temperatures (flat, semi-gloss, or gloss)
Start by clearing off your fireplace, including the removal of pictures or ornaments on and around the mantel and hearth. If you have a brick fireplace and are planning on painting it, make sure you also clean the surface of the brick. Using a brush, do a once-over to make sure all the dirt, dust, and soot are clear. Then spray the brick with your 50/50 solution of water and vinegar, and pat it with a cloth to make sure you’ve gotten all the debris so the paint will adhere properly. Tape off any areas you want to remain paint-free. Sometimes you have a fairly clean-faced design and adding a pop of colour to the wall around your fireplace and then adorning above it with art will add a simple and elegant update to your fireplace.
Clean & Prep the Surface
Start by clearing off your mantel—goodbye, décor, candles, and picture frames (temporarily, of course!). If your surround is brick, it needs a deep clean before painting. Use a brush to sweep away dust and soot, then spray the surface with your vinegar solution. Wipe everything down to ensure the paint adheres properly.
Tape off areas you want to keep paint-free (like the firebox opening). Now, you’re ready for the fun part!
Prime Everything First
Priming is key—skip it, and you risk stains seeping through your fresh paint job. Use a stain-blocking, oil-based primer to seal the brick or wood. This step also helps the paint adhere better and last longer. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before applying.
Choose the Right Paint
For best results, go with an indoor latex paint rated for high heat (around 250°C / 480°F). This ensures durability and prevents cracking or peeling. Painting the brick around your fireplace is a commitment that will brighten your room and lighten the gravity that surrounds your fireplace.
- Brick Fireplace: A textured roller makes application easier. Since brick is porous, you’ll need at least two coats after priming. Finish by using a small brush to catch any missed spots.
- Wood Mantel: A standard paintbrush works fine here—just be sure to apply smooth, even coats.
Important: Even with heat-resistant paint, only the exterior surround should be painted—never the firebox interior or any surface directly exposed to flames. Remember to turn off your fireplace during this DIY project to ensure safety.
People Also Asked:
What Kind of Paint Do You Use on a Fireplace Surround?
The type of paint is determined by where it is being used and the surface it is being used upon. Another important factor will be the type of fireplace and its heat management. If you are painting the walls around a fireplace that are just drywall, this would indicate that it is a zero-clearance unit, and the immediate area does not reach unsafe temperatures. An interior latex will do as long as it has a temperature rating. High heat-rated paints are great for painting the actual surround, or when you have a textured surface like brick or stone, which could indicate a higher temperature around the fireplace. You will also want to ensure that the paint being used is ideal for the surface on which it is being applied.
What is the Best Colour for a Fireplace Surround?
The answer depends on your personal tastes and décor style. As of the writing of this article, bold saturated colours are the most popular. The practice of colour drenching, and painting everything and the surrounding area in one dynamic colour is currently what is done. However, you can opt for a more classic approach, accent with those big and bold colours while keeping things neutral around the fireplace. Clean and simple will always be in style. Accentuate with wood and soft tones, bringing the bold with art, accessories, and accents.
How do you Modernize a Fireplace Surround?
Ornate mantels and bright metallic gold accents can date your fireplace. If possible, opt for black- or neutral-coloured surrounds, remove the flashy flourishes, opting for more clean and minimalist lines. White, grey, and beige are classic colours that can be accentuated and dressed up or down depending on your personal tastes.
Do you Need High-Heat Paint for a Fireplace Surround?
Any trim or faces that surround your fireplace will likely be exposed to high temperatures. You will need to ensure that you use high-heat paint when painting your fireplace surround.
Finishing Touches
Once your masterpiece is dry, remove the painter’s tape, replace your décor, and step back to admire your work. Your fireplace just went from drab to fab with minimal effort!
Whether you’re modernizing an old brick surround or adding a sleek new colour to your mantel, painting is a simple way to refresh your space without breaking the bank. So go ahead—light the fire, grab a hot drink, and enjoy the cozy vibes of your newly updated fireplace!
How have you used paint to decorate near your fireplace? Share your décor stories and photos with us on social like our Facebook and Instagram pages using the hashtags #NapoleonFireplace and #NapoleonMoments.
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