Fireplace Redo
I knew when I first saw this fireplace I would redo it. Due to budget constraints, resurfacing this out the gate wasn't a possibility. I really don't like the square, slate tile (it has followed me from my house in the burbs where it was my kitchen backsplash for years. I hated it then and I hate it now). My goal was less about making the fireplace surface a statement and more about allowing that fireplace screen to pop (I mean, she's a stunner).
Here is a before so you can see the dark, slate tile (and the dark walls, and the dark paneling in the window seats).
It's no surprise that I decided to go white - I chose the same white we used on all the trim. I'll let you know if I regret it after we have a few fires and deal with all the soot and ash. I'm hopeful that using the semigloss finish will help with the clean up.
I wasn't quite sure how to paint over this type of stone. I figured it was a lot like brick but even after a few google and Pinterest searches I came up short. I asked my painter and the guy at Lowes. They both suggested a primer and this is what I wound up with.
I cleaned the surface well and allowed it to dry. I only used one coat of the primer
and mainly applied with a paint brush so that I could get in between each tile to cover the grout. I later found a roller that would have covered the area - and much more quickly. I've linked it below.
I did allow the primer to sit overnight before applying the paint. It took two coats to cover the whole thing - where I couldn't see hints of the former color coming through. I also allowed the paint to dry overnight before putting anything back on the hearth.
The project - in total - probably took me 2.5-3 hours and was honestly simple. The hardest part was getting in between those window seats. But I'm pleased as punch with how it turned out. Quite a difference don't you think?
Â
What you will need
Degreaser (I used Krud Cutter)
Primer (Zinsser 1-2-3)
Paint (I used Polar Bear by Behr - semigloss)
Paint Brush
Frog tape (if you aren't confident cutting in)
Roller (I used this one)
and a little elbow grease, a few hours and a little patience.
Have fun!