How to Paint Inside of Fireplace (Step by Step Guide!)
If your home has a fireplace, one way to upgrade the look and style of your room is by painting the inside of it.
In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to paint the inside of a fireplace step by step and much more. Let’s dig in!
- High heat paint
- Drop cloth
- Paint brush (for canned paint)
- Scrub brush
- Rubber gloves
- Painters tape
Step 1. Purchase a High Heat Paint
The first step in painting inside of a fireplace is finding the right paint. This step is essential, because using the wrong kind of paint can cause serious problems (like a burned down home!).
You’ll want to look for a heat resistant paint. These will be clearly labeled and are designed to withstand the high temperatures that a fireplace produces.
My favorite is the Rustoleum brand, but there are others you can choose. Just be sure it is high heat paint!
You can find both spray paint or a normal can of paint that you can apply with a brush, whichever you prefer.
Step 2. Prep the Surface
When painting any surface, you’ll want to ensure that it is clean and free of debris.
Before you even think about painting, you need to make sure the inside of the fireplace is completely cool and you have not burned wood in the area for at minimum 48 hours.
You’ll want to clear the floor around you so there’s nothing to trip over.
Step 3. Clean the Insides
Cleaning the inside of your fireplace will help to ensure maximum adhesion between the surface and your paint.
If you don’t clean it, there’s a possibility your paint won’t adhere to the walls properly and leave you with a poor paint job.
You’ll want to remove any wood from the area as well as soot or other debris. I also highly recommend scrubbing the inside of your fireplace with a hard bristled brush or scrub brush to remove any soot stains.
You can then vacuum the area to get rid of any leftover debris or dust.
If you’re painting a gas fireplace, you won’t have to worry as much with this step.
Step 4. Tape Off Areas
Whenever painting, I love to tape off areas for a clean line. When painting the inside of your fireplace, you can tape off the edges so none of the paint gets on the front.
This is even more helpful if you’re using a high heat spray paint to avoid getting overspray on the area surrounding your fireplace.
Step 5. Apply Paint Inside Fireplace
Now, it’s time to apply your paint.
Always follow the instructions on your paints label.
If you’re using spray paint, be sure to shake the can vigorously for a few minutes before starting. If you’re using a regular can of paint, be sure to mix the paint thoroughly before painting.
If you’re using spray paint, hold the can around a foot away from the surface and try to spray in long strokes, covering the entire area. It may take a while to ensure an even coat, but it’s time well spent.
If you’re painting with a regular can of high heat paint, you’ll want to use a brush to get in between the bricks of your firebox. You can use a roller to speed up the process, but you’ll have to go back over places with a brush to get the mortar painted.
If paint drips when applying, you can wipe it away with your brush.
Step 6. Allow it to Dry and Add Second Coat
Once you’ve finished applying your paint, let your fireplace dry before attempting to add a second coat.
Depending on the paint you use, it can take anywhere from 15 minutes, to a few hours for it to begin to dry.
Some high heat spray paint allows you to apply to second coat in as little as 30 minutes!
Step 7. Clean Up
Finally, you’re done! Clean up the area and allow any additional coats time to dry before lighting a fire in your newly painted fireplace!
What Color to Paint Inside of a Fireplace
There’s one big question you should ask before starting this project. What color paint should I use inside of a fireplace?
The most obvious choice is a matte black color paint. This will hide soot stains so you don’t have to worry about constant cleaning.
While white is a common color for the exterior of a brick fireplace, this isn’t the best choice for wood burning stoves because of the soot that accumulates inside of the fireplace. It will make it look more dirty than it appears. No thanks!
Finally, a neutral color like an off white color can be an interesting choice, but there will be more maintenance with this color compared to a darker choice.
Take a look at some of these fireplace transformations for some inspiration!
Need help turning on your fireplace? Check out this guide to turning on a gas fireplace!
FAQs
Do you need special paint for inside a fireplace?
Yes! It’s critical that you use a high temperature paint that can hold up against the heat that fireplaces produce.
Do you need to prime a fireplace before painting?
It can be helpful to prime a fireplace before painting it, but you’ll need to use a heat resistant primer. When you’re painting the inside of a fireplace, you don’t need to prime it.
Final Thoughts on How to Paint the Inside of a Gas Fireplace
Painting the interior of a fireplace can make a huge difference in the appearance of a room. The good news is that it’s easier than you think and the entire project can be completed in less than a day!
When you paint the inside of a firebox, you need to be sure to use a heat resistant paint. You should also scrub out any ash or soot before applying your paint.