How to Prep and Paint a Fireplace

I recently shared my Neutral Fall Mantle and how I cleaned it with my steam machine, you can see more here. Now if you ever wanted to know how to paint & prep a Fireplace then I’ll share just how to do that!

I’ve been wanting to update my fireplace for some time. But every time I try to make a plan it seems like a much bigger project than I’m ready to take on. My end goal is to paint the fireplace insert, add wood columns, a new mantle, marble tile surround & hearth, and a shiplap accent wall above.

So, to finally start my Fireplace makeover I’m going to update and paint the insert.

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Here’s How to Prep and Paint a Fireplace

First you’ll need to thoroughly clean the fireplace. I share just how to do that that here: Neutral Fall Mantle! Plus, Get Ready for Fall by Steam Cleaning Your Fireplace!

As I previously mentioned in my last post, I don’t use my fireplace.

We live in southern California and since the winters aren’t that bad we really don’t use it. With that said, it ends up collecting dust inside. I’ve cleaned it in the past, which was a major pain since it has sand covering the gas pipe. So, I finally decided to get rid of the sand & filler for good. I think with that gone cleaning will be a breeze going forward.

I should also mention that we previously removed a layer of brick that sat in front of the insert, therefore all the extra cement residue left behind. I have already chipped away and sanded down all the residue cement to get it prepped for painting.

Here’s what you’ll need to Prep and Paint your Fireplace.

Materials Needed:

Cleaning rags
Drop cloth
Vacuum, I suggest a Shop-Vac
Kraft Paper, or something similar
Tape
High Heat Paint
Dust Pan

Step 1

After the fireplace is cleaned you’ll need to start taping and masking off the glass and the fireplace surround. I prefer kraft paper since it cuts and bends easy. I also taped off the interior of the firelpace since once I cleaned it I realized how new it looked. But, if you decide to paint the interior then no need to do this step.

Step 2

Next, make sure your fireplace hearth is properly masked off. I suggest more than just the paper, like a drop cloth or old sheet. Keep in mind if you are spraying the paint then you’ll have over-spray which falls to the ground, so more coverage is always better.

Step 3

Next, choose your paint. I went with a spray version of Rust-olems High Heat paint in black. They also make the same paint where you can brush it on. But since I was working with a small area I figured the spray paint would be best.

If you plan on painting the inside you might want to consider the can so you can brush on.

As always, make sure to follow ALL the directions on the paint can.

Step 4

If you have it, start painting the fireplace mesh curtain. I didn’t even realize how tarnished mine was until the first coat of paint went on. After the first coat I let the curtain dry then closed it a little to see more areas that I missed.

Step 5

Next, paint the top and bottom of the frame. I was so excited to give the bottom a much needed coat of paint. I ended up giving the top 2 coats and then the bottom about 4, just because I was covering old concrete residue and I really wanted to make sure it was gone!

Step 6

Time to paint what you really wanted to paint, the Brass! I know this is probably everyone’s #1 area they want to update. I half closed the doors and painted all the brass, top and bottom, along with the edges. I also painted the wood handles.

Step 7

Paint the inside, or in my case the grate. I would have liked to remove the grate and paint it outside, but it was really secured down, so much so it wasn’t worth the hassle. So, I propped a piece of cardboard behind it and laid down some kraft paper.

Finally, after everything is dry start removing and peeling away all the paper and tape. Make sure to leave the drop cloth in place and go slowly. I was amazed how much the over-spray left a dust behind.

I added the faux wood logs back and gave my entire mantle a Fall refresh, which you can see much more here: Neutral Fall Mantle!

Here’s more of the after!

Get the Look: Shop Neutral Fall decor here!

After all was said and done, my little makeover that only took a couple hours and made a huge impact. It still has a long way to go, but this got me inspired to finally finish my fireplace makeover.

Enjoy!