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Fireplace makeovers can be costly and timely. Two things that I really don’t love and often don’t have time for. But I do have time for a DIY fireplace makeover that takes 10 minutes and costs no more than $15.
Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, it’s not when we’re talking about painting a brass fireplace! Our home’s fireplace originally had a brass strip along the top and bottom of the glass doors. It truly wasn’t that much, but it certainly stood out against all of the black of the rest of the fireplace.
If you’re looking to refinish a brass fireplace surround, it doesn’t have to be expensive or time-intensive.
With a quick trip to Home Depot and a little bit of my time, I no longer have brass visible on the fireplace doors and it’s created an updated look. Well, as updated as it can be with the black tile still remaining. But you know what I mean!
Whether you’re interested in painting a brass fireplace surround or painting brass fireplace trim, then this quick and easy tutorial is exactly what you need.
Can You Paint a Brass Fireplace?
Yes, you absolutely can! The idea of painting a fireplace seemed a little crazy to me at first. I mean, these things produce a lot of heat! Thankfully, I found the perfect paint for this project and other similar ones you may have in your home: Rust-Oleum High Heat Protective Enamel.
This paint is meant to withstand heat up to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. So no worries about what will happen to the paint when your fireplace is in use. It can even be used to paint grills!
If you’re ready to try painting a brass fireplace, then follow along with the rest of the tutorial! You only need a few supplies – most of which you probably already have at home!
Materials for Painting Brass Fireplace
Rust-Oleum High Heat Protective Enamel
Painter’s tape
Paintbrush (One you don’t mind throwing away.)
How To Paint Brass Fireplace Trim
Painting brass fireplace trim is as simple as preparing your paint surface and protecting the parts of your replace you don’t want to be painted.
Step 1: Prep the Brass Trim
Clean the surface area you’ll be painting to remove any dust, dirt, or anything else that would prevent the paint from successfully sticking. You may also have to sand your brass with 150 grit sandpaper if it’s glossy.
Step 2: Apply Painter’s Tape
Apply the painter’s tape where needed to avoid getting the paint on any surface area that isn’t brass.
Step 3: Prepare the High-Heat Paint
Stir the paint and then stir some more. Especially at the bottom of the can. Shaking doesn’t mix the paint!
Step 4: Paint the Brass Fireplace
Apply the paint in light, even strokes using the paintbrush or a foam roller if it’s a large area. Allow for at least 1 hour of dry time before adding the second coat.
Step 5: Remove the Painter’s Tape
As soon as you’ve applied your final coat of paint, remove the painter’s tape to avoid removing any of the paint that you painted on the brass.
This is a common mistake a lot of people make when painting anything – they wait to remove the tape until the paint is fully dry. But you’ll actually get cleaner paint lines if you remove the paint right away because you won’t risk pulling chips of paint off.
Updating a brass fireplace has never been easier and so budget friendly. Make it even more cost effective by splitting the paint cost with a friend or two also looking to update their fireplace – you really don’t need a lot of paint for this project!
Here’s a look at our after:
Painting Brass Fireplace Surround
High-heat paint isn’t only for painting brass fireplace trim – you can also use it to paint a full fireplace surround or fireplace doors.
And if you have a large area of brass to paint, it might be best for your to remove the doors and use the Rust-Oleum High Heat spray paint.
Here’s the fireplace in our first home where I tried spray painting brass fireplace doors. This method only required one coat of spray paint but I spent a lot of time removing and attaching the doors.
While this took more time than painting the brass fireplace trim, it was still an easy and budget-friendly DIY brass fireplace makeover. Just look at how different the fireplace looks with this one simple change!
Common Questions About Painting a Brass Fireplace
What type of paint should I use for a brass fireplace?
It’s important to use high-heat paint specifically designed for surfaces exposed to high temperatures. Look for paint labeled for use on metal and able to withstand temperatures of at least 500°F (260°C).
Do I need to prepare the brass surface before painting?
Yes, proper surface preparation is crucial for a durable finish. Clean the brass surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or soot. Sand the brass lightly to create a rough surface for better paint adhesion, and then wipe it clean to remove any dust.
Do I need to use a primer before painting a brass fireplace?
Not necessarily. I didn’t use a primer for this project, but if you have a larger surface area to paint or just want to ensure the best finish possible, using a high-heat primer is recommended. This helps the paint adhere better and provides a more even finish. Ensure the primer you choose is also rated for high temperatures.
Can I use regular paint on a brass fireplace?
No, regular paint is not designed to withstand the high temperatures generated by a fireplace and may peel, blister, or emit harmful fumes. Always use high-heat paint for surfaces exposed to high temperatures.
How can I protect my painted fireplace from future damage?
Regular maintenance is key. Avoid using abrasive cleaners on the painted surface. Instead, use a soft cloth and mild detergent for cleaning. Also, periodically inspect the paint for any signs of wear and touch up as needed.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when painting my fireplace?
Yes, ensure the fireplace is completely cool before starting the painting process. Work in a well-ventilated area and consider wearing a mask to avoid inhaling any fumes. Follow all manufacturer instructions on the paint and primer products.
Paint Your Brass Fireplace
Will you be giving your brass fireplace an update? Depending on how many coats you have to apply, it could be a 10 minute project or an hour project. It’s a win-win either way. Please make sure to tag me in your social shares if you decide to give this a try!
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