Which Paint Should Be Used On An Internal Brick Fireplace?

The best paint for brick fireplaces varies due to the different methods used in their application. To ensure a sound and clean surface, it is essential to brush out debris and choose an interior latex paint that can withstand high temperatures (up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit). Sherwin-Williams offers a vast selection of fireplace paint options, including acrylic latex paint, which is durable, easy to clean, and allows the brick to breathe, preventing moisture issues.

For functional fireplaces, use a paint designed for high temperatures in the firebox. If the fireplace is not functional, use a paint designed for high temperatures in the mortar. Use a 2″ brush and ProClassic Interior Acrylic Latex Paint to paint the mortar along with any cracks and crevices of the brick. Then, use a 6 ½” roller with ½” nap to paint the brick.

When primering, choose a fireplace paint—indoor, latex, heat-resistant paint (either flat, semigloss, or gloss) rated to withstand temperatures generated by the fireplace (generally about 200°F). Premium Benjamin Moore paints like Aura Interior, Regal Select Interior, or Advance are recommended. Sherwin Williams Everlast Exterior Paint is a popular choice, but any interior latex paint would work as well.

Heat-resistant paint is essential for the firebox, and latex paint or chalk paint with a semi-gloss finish will coat into the brick and work best in conjunction with a latex primer. Limewash, an alternative to latex paint, applies a continuous, opaque color coat. Slaked lime paint and/or masonry paint are different paint systems that are alkaline resistant and bond with the brick.

In summary, choosing the right paint for brick fireplaces requires careful consideration of various factors, such as durability, ease of cleaning, and compatibility with the brick’s natural features.

What type of paint do you use for a fireplace?

When painting a fireplace, it’s crucial to choose a high-heat paint that can withstand heat up to 250 degrees. Latex interior paint is ideal for non-operable fireplaces, as it’s durable and breathable. PPG’s latex interior paint selections offer various options to create the desired fireplace aesthetic. Sheen, which refers to the shine or light reflection, is a key factor to consider when choosing paint. Two common sheens to choose include glossy and matte.

Should I paint my fireplace matte or gloss?

The BEHR PREMIUM PLUS ULTRA PURE WHITE® paint was chosen for its whiteness and easy cleaning properties. A satin or glossy finish is recommended for easy cleaning, while a matte finish absorbs ash smudges and is harder to maintain. It is important to note that heat-resistant paint is not necessary for exterior fireplaces, as most general interior paint can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

When painting a brick fireplace, start with the brick faces and roll a layer of paint over them using a roller for semi-rough surfaces. For tips on painting brick, refer to the BEHR® tutorial. This project is easy and can be done by anyone.

Does brick need primer before paint?

Priming is a crucial step in painting a bare surface like brick, as it acts as a glue to allow paint to adhere easily. Primer comes in a thin, milky liquid that can be applied using a paint brush or roller. For rough exterior surfaces like brick walls, long-pile rollers are recommended due to their long fibers and ability to reach all nooks and crannies. A masonry brush can also be used for better application.

Apply a thin, even layer of primer to the brick and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This should take around 3-5 hours in normal temperatures, but may vary in colder or warmer weather.

Next, paint the brick, ensuring it is not painted in conditions below 5°C as it will impact the ability of the masonry paint to dry. Oil-based masonry paint like pliolite can be used in cooler conditions, but it is not recommended for the average DIYer.

Can you use interior paint on a fireplace?

Fireboxes can reach temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, making it crucial to use heat-resistant paint. There are two types of heat-resistant paint for fireplaces: spray and brush-on. Spray paint is quicker and provides more control over coverage. The color of the paint should be neutral, like flat black, which can easily hide soot and complements any fireplace and room decor. Choose a color that can withstand the heat from your fire.

What is the best paint finish for interior brick?

To create a brick fireplace, choose a heat-proof paint that can withstand temperatures up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit on the exterior wall. For the interior brick in the firebox, use a higher-heat-resistant paint. Semi-gloss paints offer a stain-resistant sheen and are easy to clean. High-gloss paints are also available, but some find them too shiny for large brick walls. Finish the mantle and undersides with wax or lacquer to protect them from heat, soot, and debris. If the fireplace is not near heat, faux fireplace options can be used, and staining brick on walls can give a unique antique look by absorbing into the brick’s texture.

Do you need special paint for indoor brick?

Acrylic latex is the best choice for exterior and interior brick due to its resistance to mildew and moisture. Semi-gloss or gloss paint is also suitable for both surfaces, making it easy to clean. For fireplaces, use heat-proof paint. Apply a second coat if needed and admire your work. Staining brick is an alternative to painting, allowing the natural texture of brick to shine through. Avoid painting damaged, dirty, or wet brick, as it can damage the surface.

Clean the brick before painting, using acidic cleaners to prevent disintegration over time. Repair small cracks with acrylic caulk before applying primer or paint, as larger cracks may require professional help.

What happens if I use regular paint on a fireplace?

Painting a brick fireplace is a popular and practical solution for maintaining its aesthetic appeal. However, traditional interior latex paint may not last long and may burn off in one or two heating seasons. Instead, a high-temp spray paint in the chosen color can be used. To clean the brick, follow cleaning tips with sandpaper, a paintbrush, and a vinegar and water solution. After the brick has dried, apply the spray paint in thin layers using a back-and-forth sweeping motion. Allow the paint to dry completely, preferably overnight, and apply a second coat. Wait a day or two between painting and using the fireplace.

To ensure proper application, use the right paint types and allow it to dry thoroughly before building a fire. Many homeowners prefer to tackle this project in late spring or summer when temperatures are warm and fires are not necessary.

Can you use acrylic paint on a brick fireplace?

The choice of masonry primer and paint is crucial for the success of a brick fireplace. Acrylic latex is the best paint for most brick fireplaces, but it is important to use heat-resistant paint due to proximity to a heat source. For interior bricks, thick paint is recommended to increase hiding ability and reduce the number of coats needed. For exterior bricks, low heat paint is preferred. Oil-based paints are less ideal for bricks due to their flammability and difficulty in painting over later.

To apply primer, start with a brush on the mortar and follow with a roller. Allow the primer to dry fully before starting to paint, and each coat of paint to dry thoroughly. Most fireplaces require at least two coats to transition from red or dark brick to a light color. The mantel can be painted to match or in a contrasting color with the same heat-resistant latex paint. Wood fireplaces don’t need primer, but concrete or stone mantels require the appropriate primer.

What is the best paint for painting brick?

Brickwork is a durable and versatile material, with a unique classiness that cannot be replicated with other building materials. Bricks are typically reddish-brown, but they can be painted with relative ease to create any color you like. However, selecting the right paint for the job is crucial, as painting a brick exterior differs significantly from painting interior walls or wooden fences. Experts recommend using acrylic latex, which is designed to be weatherproof and prevent cracks in the brick.

Elastodynamic is also a popular choice, but acrylic latex is the preferred choice due to its ability to prevent cracks and maintain the color of the brick. A short guide to the best paints for painting brick is provided.

Can I use emulsion on interior brick?

Masonry paint can be painted over with an emulsion, but it is not the best way to decorate an exterior masonry surface as it won’t last long exposed to weather. However, an emulsion can be used for interior surfaces. The best time to apply masonry paint is between 10 C and 35 C, with the south in the summer and the north in the winter. Weather is also a concern, as excessive rain and wind can negatively affect the application of masonry paint. In the south, it’s best to apply the paint during the hottest days of summer and the coldest part of winter.

Do I need special paint for interior brick?

To prepare a brick wall for painting, start with a clean canvas, scrub the brickwork with a scourer or brush, and vacuum to remove loose mortar or dust. Wipe down the bricks with a damp cloth and allow the wall to dry for 12 hours. If cracks are visible, fill them with filler and follow the drying instructions. Apply a Dulux paint primer and undercoat suitable for brick using a roller with a medium to long pile, allowing the primer to dry before painting.

Choose a water-based acrylic paint for interior use and paint the brick wall as any interior wall, using the same roller. If the space connects with a different colored wall or ceiling, cut in around the edges and corners using a brush for a professional finish. For a uniform finish, apply at least two coats of Dulux paint, allowing each layer to dry fully before applying additional coats, recommended at no more than four.