When we think of remodeling our house, we don’t necessarily think of the fireplace, but updating it can be a wonderful way to give your living room fresh definition. The fireplace is often the primary focal point on the main wall, catching the eye of anyone walking into the room or gathering on the couch. Many brick fireplaces feature outdated red, white, or black finishes that can easily be modernized with a fresh coat of high-grade paint in a shade of your choice. Read on to learn how to expertly paint your fireplace a brand-new color.
Removing Debris & Surface Cleaning
Taking on a DIY masonry painting project requires thorough preparation, so we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to ensure your paint adheres smoothly. To begin, use a stiff wire brush to scrub away built-up soot, efflorescence, and loose mortar debris from every nook and cranny. Because this process creates a significant mess on the hearth, use a heavy-duty shop vacuum to clean up all dust and loose particles before moving on.
Sponge Degreasing & Area Protection
Next, apply a specialized masonry degreaser or TSP (trisodium phosphate) solution with a heavy-duty sponge to thoroughly clean the brick and mortar lines. Any remaining grease, soot, or dirt will cause your primer and paint to peel later, so take this step very seriously. It is much easier to do a thorough job during prep than to repair peeling or chipped paint down the road. Be sure to lay down heavy drop cloths and apply painter’s tape to protect adjacent flooring and walls from moisture and paint splatter.
Priming & Painting Masonry
Once dry, use a 1-inch flat, stiff-bristle brush to work Sherwin-Williams Loxon Concrete & Masonry Primer deep into the recessed mortar joints and porous crevices of the brick. Next, pass over the face of the brick with a mini roller to cover the flat surfaces evenly. Proper priming on raw brick is essential, as it seals the porous substrate and provides alkali and efflorescence resistance for long-term durability.
After the primer has cured, use a 2-inch angled trim brush to apply Sherwin-Williams ProClassic Interior Acrylic Latex Paint into the mortar lines and deep textures. Finish by using a 6.5-inch roller with a 1/2-inch nap to cover the remaining flat surfaces of the brick evenly. Using a thicker nap roller allows the paint to penetrate deep into the textured surface without leaving bare spots.
Once dry, step back and admire your transformed living room focal point! If the deep cleaning, priming, and detailed brushwork sound like more time and effort than you’d like to take on, Pro Painters is here to help. As your trusted Houston painting company, we specialize in expert Houston interior painting and fireplace refinishing. Fill out our online contact form or give us a call today at 281-990-0717 to schedule your free estimate!
