How to Paint and Stain Brick Fireplaces

When it comes to cleaning smoke residue from brick, soap just isn't enough. Be sure to use TSP cleaner or you will end up with an unattractive finish.

Over time, even a well-built fireplace will tarnish because of smoke exposure. Rejuvenate the appearance of your fireplace by coating it with paint or stain. However, before you get started, take specific preparation measures or you'll end up with an unattractive finish that won't hold up over time. If you'd like to paint or stain your brick fireplace, specific application methods will help you get the finish you desire without creating an unfortunate mess.

Things You'll Need

• TSP cleaner
• Coarse brush
• Blue painter's tape
• 4-inch latex paintbrush
• Latex primer
• Latex paint
• Heavy-duty fabric drop cloth
• Plastic drop cloth
• 4-inch oil-based paintbrush
• Stain

Instructions

Paint a Brick Fireplace

1. Clean the brick fireplace, using TSP cleaner. Rinse the surface and allow it to dry.

2. Apply painter's tape to areas of the fireplace you do not want painted.

3. Cover the surrounding flooring with a heavy-duty fabric dropcloth.

4. Apply latex primer, using a 4-inch latex paintbrush. Dab the brush in the mortar to fill the tiny holes with paint.

5. Allow the surface to dry for two hours and then apply paint in the same manner as you did the primer.

Stain a Brick Fireplace

1. Clean the brick fireplace, using TSP cleaner. Rinse the surface and allow it to dry.

2. Apply painter's tape to areas of the fireplace you do not want stained.

3. Cover the surrounding flooring with a plastic dropcloth. Lay a heavy-duty fabric dropcloth on top of the plastic one.

4. Apply stain to the brick fireplace, using a 4-inch oil-based paintbrush.

Tips & Warnings

• Dirt and old smoke residue must be cleaned from the brick fireplace or you will have no chance at paint adhesion. In addition, dirt and residue can prevent stain from soaking into the brick. When it comes to cleaning smoke residue from brick, soap just isn't enough. Use TSP cleaner or you will end up with an unattractive finish.

• Never use a plastic dropcloth alone when staining, as this will allow the stain to pool. Likewise, never use a fabric dropcloth alone as this will allow the stain to soak through onto the underlying surface.

Resources

• Popular Mechanics: 5 Pro Painting Tips Every Amateur Should Know