• Blog
  • About
    • About
    • Home Tour
    • Contact Me
    • Work with Me
    • Policies
      • Disclosure Statement
      • Privacy Policy
  • Shop
  • Free Printables
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • Most Popular !
    • How to Paint a Brick Fireplace
    • How to German Schmear Brick
    • How to Make DIY Bamboo Blinds
    • 10 Homes with Board and Batten Siding
    • How to go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt
    • How to Make a DIY House Number Sign
  • Crafts
    • Crafts for the Home
    • Handmade Gifts
    • Kid & Family Crafts
  • DIY & Decor
    • DIY Projects
    • Furniture Makeovers
    • Organization
    • Exterior Decor Ideas
    • Interior Decor Ideas
    • Room Makeovers & Home Tours
  • Family Activities
    • NEW PARTNER SITE! Scavenger Hunt Idea.com
    • Scavenger Hunts
    • Travel Ideas
    • Disney Ideas
  • Party & Holiday
    • Holiday Decor & Crafts
    • Party Ideas
    • Seasonal Decor & Crafts

Craftivity Designs

You are here: Home / DIY & Decor / DIY Projects / Brick / How to Paint a Brick Fireplace (and the Best Paint to Use!)

April 2, 2019 · 27 Comments

How to Paint a Brick Fireplace (and the Best Paint to Use!)

Brick· Dining Room

Learn how to paint brick, including which types of paint to use. Painting a brick fireplace is an inexpensive and easy way to brighten a room.

Brick fireplaces can be a beautiful accent in a home. I love aged brick — especially in old farm kitchens or peeking out from crumbling plaster.

However, sometimes brick just feels dark and heavy. That was definitely the case in our farmhouse dining room and it had to go.

Painting the brick fireplace transformed our dining room! In this post, I’ll show you how to paint brick and share 10+ examples of painted brick fireplaces.

how to paint brick and which type of paint to buy, how to paint a brick fireplace

What’s the Best Paint to use when painting a brick fireplace?

I use to live in the “big city,” as they say; and would always head to a big box store for paint. Not that there is anything wrong with those stores; but I love our local hardware store.

While the selection is smaller, the employees are much more knowledgeable when it comes to answering questions.

After doing some internet research, I expected to be purchasing a masonry, brick, and stucco paint; but the paint tech suggested otherwise. He recommended a can of Zinnser Primer, which is tinted to match the paint.

He said that after using the Zinnser Primer I could use basic interior latex paint. As usual, I chose my go-to, Porter Paints Hi Hide, in a Semi-Gloss finish so that it would be easy to clean.

I expected to be painting this brick for weeks. All I had heard about brick was how much it would soak up the paint… plus there were so many small crevices.

However, this combination of paint turned out to be very impressive. Don’t believe me? Well, let’s just say the proof is in the pudding pictures (haha!).

You might also like: How to German Schmear Brick (Mortar Wash Fireplace Makeover)

How to Paint Brick

If you’d like to download and print these instructions (with links to the supplies, included), click here to jump to the instruction card.

Supply List

  • tinted primer
  • paintbrushes
  • high nap rollers designed for rough surfaces
  • semi-gloss paint

Instructions

  1. Vacuum and dust the brick fireplace to clear it of debris, cobwebs, and dust bunnies.
  2. Collect your supplies. The first and second coats will be a tinted primer.
  3. Use a brush to apply paint to the mortar in between the bricks.
    painting brick mortar lines with a brush
  4. Once the mortar has received a coat of primer, paint the face of the brick with primer. You can use either a brush or a high nap roller designed for rough surfaces to apply the primer.

    After 1 Coat of Primer:

    painted brick with primer, first coat
  5.  After the first coat dries, repeat steps 3-4 in order to apply a second coat of tinted primer. This second coat should result in near-to-full coverage of the brick.

    After 2 Coats of Primer:

    brick painted with primer, second coat
  6. Once the second coat is dry, apply a semi-gloss paint. Again, follow the order of steps 3-4, painting mortar followed by the face of the brick.

    After 1 Coat of Semi-Gloss Paint:

    painted brick white

Can you believe the coverage? I couldn’t! My expectation was to be painting – at a minimum – a coat of primer and 3 coats of paint. I also expected it to be tedious.

However, when you buy good quality paint, it makes all the difference. This combo went on easily, with a smooth semi-gloss finish, and great coverage.

Tips & Tricks

  • Don’t spend big bucks on a fancy brush! The rough brick texture won’t be easy on brush bristles. I like to buy affordable multi-size paintbrush packs that can be used for a project and tossed afterward.
  • Make sure to prep correctly. Cover the floor around the hearth and tape off the fireplace doors/insert.

FAQs: Painting a Brick Fireplace

What color paint did you use?
Unfortunately, it’s a custom mix to match the wood trim in our home. Here are the details on the formula: PP109 – Porter Paint Hi Hide Interior Latex – Light Base B=3 C=15 F=1

How does the paint hold up?
After 3 years, there is only one spot where the paint chipped on the hearth. We have young kids, which means that hearth is regularly used for play, jumping, banging toys {haha!}, etc.

Should I wash the brick before painting?
In most cases, no. Thorough vacuuming and dusting should remove most debris. If there is a heavy amount of soot around the firebox or hearth, you may need to wash the brick before painting. Still, the primer should cover most residue.

Can I use this same paint combination in the firebox?
No! If it is a functional fireplace, you must use a paint designed for high temperatures in the firebox. If the fireplace is not functional, you would not have to use a high-temperature paint in the firebox.

How to Brighten a Dark Fireplace with Paint - After

How to Paint a Brick Fireplace

Yield: 1
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Active Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Learn how to paint brick, including which types of paint to use. Painting a brick fireplace is an inexpensive and easy way to brighten a room.

Materials

  • Tinted Primer
  • Semi-Gloss Paint
  • Paintbrushes
  • High Nap Paint Rollers

Tools

  • Paint Roller Frame

Instructions

  1. Vacuum and dust the brick fireplace. Ensure it that any debris, cobwebs, and dust is removed.
  2. Use a paintbrush to apply tinted primer to the mortar.
  3. Next, paint the face of each brick with primer. Use a high nap roller designed for rough surfaces.
  4. After the first coat dries, repeat step 2-3 in order to apply a second coat of tinted primer.
  5. Once the second coat is dry, apply a semi-gloss paint to the mortar lines with a paintbrush.
  6. Next, paint the face of each brick with semi-gloss paint. Use a high nap roller designed for rough surfaces.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Presa Premium Paint Brushes Set, 5 Piece
    Presa Premium Paint Brushes Set, 5 Piece
  • Purdy 144630094 Colussus Roller Cover, 9 inch x 3/4 inch nap
    Purdy 144630094 Colussus Roller Cover, 9 inch x 3/4 inch nap
© Lora Green
Category: Interior Decor Ideas

Brick Fireplace Makeover

Now, we just get to enjoy it. The best part, of course! Let’s take a look back at where it began…

dining room BEFORE with dark brick fireplace and coral walls

Fresh paint on the walls and fireplace, updated curtains, and a statement sputnik light… and we are well on our way to a renovated dining room. 

Painted Brick Fireplace, Farmhouse Christmas Home Tour, Rustic, Cottage by @CraftivityDQuite the transformation, wouldn’t you say? 

You might also like: Budget Farmhouse Dining Room Makeover

painted brick fireplace, white

10+ More Painted Brick Fireplace Makeovers

If this project wasn’t enough to convince you to paint your brick fireplace, these painted fireplace makeovers will help finalize your decision.

Does your room feel dreary and weighed down by dark brick? Consider brightening it up with white paint.

You might also like: How to Brighten a Dark Room (the Ultimate Guide!)

Would you like to add drama to a bland room? Highlight a brick fireplace with a gallon of gray paint to add contrast in the room.

10+ Painted Fireplace Makeovers by Bloggers and DIYers!

10 Painted Brick Fireplace Makeovers

Makeover a brick fireplace with paint - 10 examples of how to take a dark fireplace from outdated to stylish!

How to German Schmear Brick (Mortar Wash Fireplace Makeover)

Learn how to German schmear brick, in no time! Makeover a brick fireplace with mortar wash, a beginner-friendly DIY project...

Photo Credit: Pig + Tiger

Shiplap and Wood Fireplace over Painted Brick

Shiplap isn't always farmhouse casual, as demonstrated by this white brick fireplace that is perfect for the traditional home...

Photo Credit: maiedae.blogspot.com

Modern White Painted Brick Fireplace with Dark Trim

Highlight beautiful dark trim by painting the fireplace white, letting the wood stain shine.

Photo Credit: sarahjoyblog.com

White Brick Fireplace with Shiplap Inset

A combination of white shiplap, white brick, and white trim brighten a living room with charming farmhouse style.

Photo Credit: Lauren Fair

White Brick Fireplace with Rustic Wood Mantel

A beefy, rustic, wood mantel is the focal point against a painted white fireplace.

Photo Credit: freshcrush.com

Modern Black Fireplace with Wood Mantel

A dark gray - nearly black - paint transforms an outdated fireplace in an eclectic home.

Photo Credit: www.birkleylaneinteriors.com

Gray Painted Fireplace with White Mantel

A small brick fireplace becomes the focal point on a white wall when painted in a cool, modern, gray color.

Photo Credit: www.brightgreendoor.com

Black Brick Fireplace with Wood Mantel and Stone Hearth

Black paint on a brick fireplace helps take this room from the 70s to a stylish and sleek modern space.

Photo Credit: Shanty 2 Chic

Gray Brick Fireplace with Rustic Mantel

Transform a basic brick fireplace with gray paint and a DIY matel.

Photo Credit: Schneiderman's

Modern Gray Brick Fireplace

Gray paint on the brick, black paint on the hardware, and a DIY mantel transform a 70s brick fireplace.

If you liked this DIY project, you might also like:

  • How to Install a Faux Brick Backsplash
  • How to German Schmear Brick (Mortar Wash Fireplace)
  • Before and After Photos of German Schmear Fireplaces

About Lora Green

Lora is the Owner and Creative Director of Craftivity Designs, where she seeks to Create a Home that is simple, functional, and beautiful. With an eye for practical solutions, she designs multi-purpose rooms which pack a storage punch. As a busy mom of 2, she shares crafts that are quick and easy, without sacrificing style. For fun, she loves to go on a homemade scavenger hunt and plan trips to Disney.

« 40 Cute Easter Basket Stuffers that Kids will Love!
15+ Spring Floral Arrangements that You’ll Want to Try! »

Comments

  1. TwoPlusCute says

    July 8, 2015 at 3:37 pm

    From downright ugly to gorgeous!
    Ladies you did a great job and it certainly wasn't easy painting such rough surface.

    It looks fantastic now!

    Reply
  2. simplycalledfood.com says

    July 13, 2015 at 10:02 am

    Amazing! It gives such a great result and it really updates the brick "decor"!

    Reply
  3. foody schmoody says

    July 13, 2015 at 10:02 am

    It looks great! You've got to love how those small local shops actually know what they are talking about! The big stores are good for some things but not always experience and knowledge!

    Reply
  4. KC the Kitchen Chopper says

    July 13, 2015 at 10:02 am

    I'm not a creative DIY'er at all, but even I could do this. Thanks for this informative tutorial that may just come in handy some day! 🙂

    Reply
  5. Craftivity Designs says

    July 13, 2015 at 10:20 am

    Thanks! Such a transformation, right?

    Reply
  6. Craftivity Designs says

    July 13, 2015 at 10:20 am

    Glad it was helpful!

    Reply
  7. Craftivity Designs says

    July 13, 2015 at 10:21 am

    Yep! It's always such a good shopping experience when we can get questions answered.

    Reply
  8. Craftivity Designs says

    July 13, 2015 at 10:21 am

    Thanks! 🙂

    Reply
  9. crystal says

    May 15, 2016 at 10:17 pm

    What color paint did you use?

    Reply
    • [email protected] says

      May 16, 2016 at 9:52 am

      It’s a custom mix paint color to match our trim.
      Here are the details on the formula if that helps:
      PP109 – Porter Paint Hi Hide Interior Latex – Light Base
      B=3 C=15 F=1

      Reply
      • Lisa says

        April 6, 2019 at 10:28 am

        Is this the paint for the Shanty 2 Chic fireplace redo?

      • Lora Green says

        April 12, 2019 at 5:50 pm

        Hi, Lisa. No the tutorial is for my fireplace redo. If you’d like to get the details on the Shanty 2 Chic redo, head over to her post: https://www.instagram.com/p/BIoSiIdhx1_/

  10. Debbie says

    February 5, 2018 at 1:31 pm

    Did you need so wash the brick first

    Reply
    • Lora Green says

      February 7, 2018 at 2:37 pm

      I didn’t wash it but I did dust it. If it had soot buildup, you would probably want to wash it.

      Reply
  11. Roberta J says

    July 29, 2018 at 9:19 pm

    My fireplace was painted white years ago and has held up better than expected. I no longer burn wood in the firebox but may use an electric insert down the road. I want to repaint it myself. Since it is already painted with several layers of paint as the brick did soak up a lot of paint when the contractor did the job do I still need to prime it before I try my hand at repainting it myself

    Reply
    • Lora Green says

      July 29, 2018 at 11:14 pm

      No, I don’t think you would need to prime it again. The main purpose of the primer is to keep the brick from soaking up paint, but in your case, that is already done. The only caveat to that could be: If you are going from a very dark paint to a light paint, you might want a primer, similar to switching from a dark wall color to a light wall color. Good luck!!

      Reply
  12. Carrie says

    November 17, 2018 at 5:37 am

    The fireplace looks amazing, but I’d like to know where you got the map hanging above it. I need one of those.

    Reply
    • Lora Green says

      November 18, 2018 at 2:35 pm

      Hi, Carrie! I made it! The map tutorial can be found here: https://craftivitydesigns.com/diy-chalkboard-map/

      Reply
  13. Linda says

    December 30, 2018 at 7:02 am

    The updated fireplace looks beautiful! One question I have that I didn’t see answered; did you use oil-based or latex primer? I was told to use an oil-based primer and latex paint.

    Reply
    • Lora Green says

      January 1, 2019 at 7:51 pm

      Hi, Linda! Great question! They recommended a latex primer for this project, and that is also what I have used on my most recent fireplace renovation, too. It is not up on my blog yet, but it is a painter fireplace in a german schmear technique. Both this reno and the german schmear technique have done great with both latex paint and primer. Let me know if you have any other questions! Happy New Year 🙂

      Reply
  14. Jo says

    February 13, 2019 at 6:03 pm

    I’ve seen many bloggers recommending a Brick or Stucco Paint, and I see you used ‘Hi Hide’ for more coverage. It’s been difficult finding that Brick and Stucco paint, and then the high coverage paint in a dark base. Any recommendations? Or details on how you sourced your paint?

    Reply
    • Lora Green says

      February 18, 2019 at 3:01 pm

      I went into the paint store planning to buy Brick and Stucco Paint, but the clerk working in the paint department said there was no need to buy a brick stucco paint. Instead, he recommended a single coat of tinted primer + Hi Hide (which is just Porter Paints high-quality paint/primer in one). Therefore, any high-quality semi-gloss, paint/primer in one from Porter Paints, Sherwin Williams, Benjamin Moore, etc. should suffice.

      Reply
  15. Shauna Mulhare says

    April 23, 2020 at 3:25 pm

    Thank you !!!! Thank you !!! I decided that being home due to COVID 19 that I would take on the task of our fireplace. I followed all your instructions and would like to thank you for your excellent advice. I am absolutely delighted with the results . I would love to post a picture of my before and after but haven’t figured out how to do that yet 😀 all I can say is the results are Brilliant .

    Reply
    • Lora Green says

      April 23, 2020 at 3:49 pm

      That’s awesome! I’m so glad to hear that – makes my day 🙂 !!! I’d love to see your before and after! Feel free to email [email protected] or share it to my FB page – https://www.facebook.com/CraftivityDesigns and I’ll be happy to celebrate with you… aren’t finished projects the best?! So exciting and gratifying!

      Reply
  16. wendy says

    May 15, 2020 at 4:15 pm

    Awesome makeover! I was just wondering g how much primer and pai t did you use for the prospect? Thanks so much!

    Reply
    • Lora Green says

      May 22, 2020 at 11:35 am

      Thank you, Wendy! Less than a gallon of each 🙂

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Meet Lora

Lora is the Owner and Creative Director of Craftivity Designs, where she seeks to Create a Home that is simple, functional, and beautiful. With an eye for practical solutions... Read More…

Amazon Affiliate Disclosure

Lora Green, of Craftivity Designs, LLC, is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Click to read the full Disclosure Statement

Photo Use Policy

Feel free to use an image or two from Craftivity Designs as long as they’re credited and accompanied by a text link back to this site. Click to read the full Photo Use Policy

© 2021 Craftivity Designs, LLC