If you have a traditional brick fireplace, you likely appreciate its enduring warmth and charm. But over time, its appearance may feel tired or dated next to your modern decor. Instead of undertaking a costly remodel, you can easily refresh your fireplace with a new coat of paint to match or contrast any color scheme imaginable!
Painting bricks opens up an exciting world of dramatic possibilities. You can amplify your fireplace into a striking focal point or cleverly blend it into the background. Choosing bold, vibrant paint colors also allows you to alter the entire mood and energy of your living space.
Determine the Desired Effect Before Choosing Paint Colors
Paint Colors Have a Psychological Impact
Before deciding on a color, first consider the vibe you want to achieve. Warm red and yellow paint tones feel cozy and inviting, while cool blues or greens have a more relaxing effect. Darker shades lend an elegant, luxurious air, whereas soft pastels keep things light and airy.
You’ll also need to determine whether to downplay your fireplace into a subtle backdrop or transform it into a captivating focal point that demands attention. If opting for neutral wall colors like greige or warm white, choosing a bold fireplace color helps it stand out. More vibrant paint choices contrast nicely against neutral backgrounds.
Fireplace as a Design Element in the Room
Take stock of your existing decor and color scheme before selecting fireplace paint colors. Your goal is to either seamlessly complement the room’s ambiance or consciously contrast it by highlighting the fireplace. If your walls utilize lots of vibrant patterns and fabrics, a neutral fireplace color keeps things from becoming too visually busy.
Popular Paint Color Choices for Fireplaces
Timeless Neutrals or Pops of Color
For a classic, clean look, whites, greys, and beiges subtly recede into walls for a calming effect. However, vivid colors make the boldest statements! Opt for an intense inky black for high contrast drama against light walls. Navy blue elicits a moody richness while also defining the room’s color palette.
Who says fireplaces must fade into the background? Make yours fierce with fiery reds or choose emerald green for an organic earthy flair. Yellows from mustard to ochre inject warmth and vitality.
Beyond Wall Colors
Looking for bolder options beyond typical wall paint choices? Surprising bright chartreuse green or deeper hunter green are eye-catching. Or add modern yet welcoming contrast with orangey rust or rich copper paint.
Mix and Match Combos
If you can’t commit to just one color, mix and match! A black and white harlequin-like checkerboard pattern makes a graphic geometric statement. Or hand paint a custom mural melt from one shade to another for an artsy ombre effect.
Preparation Before Painting the Brick Surface
Clean, Repair, and Protect
Properly preparing your brick surface ensures paint adheres smoothly and evenly. Start by thoroughly cleaning bricks free of soot and debris with the appropriate chemical cleaner or power washing. Scrape off any loose material with a wire brush or putty knife first.
Check for cracks or missing mortar needing repair to prevent future water damage issues behind walls. Seal everything with quality high-bonding primer before painting for maximum durability.
Lay Drop Cloths and Tape Off Space
Protect surrounding surfaces by laying drop cloths over floors and furniture. Use painter’s tape to mask off edges around walls and ceiling trims for straight painted lines if opting for two different colors. For an eye-catching geometric look, tape off harlequin diamonds or a herringbone pattern.
Brick Fireplace Paint Technique Pointers
Brush/Rolling Paint Application Strategy
Use angled sash brush for best control painting bricks. Dip halfway into paint to prevent excessive dripping. Maintain a wet edge and work in logical sections so paint doesn’t dry before you finish an area. Apply paint in long smooth strokes following the grain rather than short jittery ones. Two thinner coats allow for evenly layered coverage without annoying visible brush marks.
Whitewashing Method for Rustic Antique Charm
For a distressed vintage appearance, try whitewashing instead of painting full coats of color. Mix white pigment into watery paintwash and apply lightly over the brick. Immediately wipe down with a rag before drying so the whitened stain permeates the rough texture while still exposing hints of bare brick below. Working in small sections is easiest for blending layers seamlessly.
Using Multiple Paint Finishes
Amp up visual dynamics by incorporating two or more paint textures. Glossy black bricks over matte white grout lines create modern sophistication contrast. Consider lightly dry brushing on a weathered driftwood blue-grey glaze over clean grey bricks for an industrial edge.
Final Touches After Painting
Allow fresh paint to fully cure for at least 48-72 hours before lighting the first fire to avoid damaging fumes. The heat helps set the paint. Pair your eye-catching new fireplace with coordinating framing details like painted built-out surrounds or freshly stained wood mantel accents to complete the total transformation.
FAQs About Painting Brick Fireplaces
What types of new issues can paint cause?
How long will painted brick fireplaces maintain their look?
What mistakes should I avoid when prepping or painting?
How can I blend my fireplace with ornate detailing?
With the right prep work and technique, painting over classic red brick fireplaces opens up exciting new bold possibilities. Choose a color that amplifies your fireplace into an alluring focal point or subtly blends it into the background. Crisp whites, sophisticated black, or tantalizing navy blue transform it into a showcase worthy of gathering around.
Or go for unexpected drama with more vibrant paint colors like emerald green, ochre yellow, or sunset orange paired against cool grays and beiges. A black and white harlequin checkerboard scheme makes a statement. So have fun playing with color combinations and finishes like glossy next to matte textures or whitewashing to reimagine the heart of your home!
