Easy and Cheap Fireplace Makeover: Whitewashing Brick

Steve May • Jul 31, 2017

Need a design idea to lighten up your brick fireplace or hearth?

We have created a video to help all you DIYers do just that. Whitewashing brick is an easy and cheap way to keep the classic look of a brick fireplace, even if your home’s color scheme doesn’t allow the earthy red tones that come with most brick.

Watch the video for practical advice, or read on for the notes below.

Quick tips for whitewashing brick:

Prepare your surface by cleaning your brick with water and a stiff brush.
Remove any old paint or plaster that may be on your brick with water or a soft scraper. Take care not to damage the brick.
Mix 50% paint and 50% water for your whitewash. Primers seem to adhere best. Aim for the consistency of milk.
Brush on your whitewash with a brush. Try doing the mortar joints first, and brushing the brick face last.
Don’t worry if you coat unevenly as you go along, you will have plenty of chances to fix it with a rag or in touch up.
Use your rag after you have worked a small section of the brick, wipe the entire surface of the brick and try to stay ahead of any runs or drips.
The porous brick will absorb the paint, so even areas you may have covered heavily will lighten as the whitewash dries.

The post Easy and Cheap Fireplace Makeover: Whitewashing Brick appeared first on Chimney Works & Rocky Mountain Stoves.

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Chimney Problem Solver

By Lilah Utzurrum • 23 May, 2023

Welcome to Chimney Works’ Chimney Problem Solver™ This tool will help you find solutions to common chimney problems. Each problem is presented as a question we get from customers on a regular basis. An answer is provided, explaining why it happens and what can be done about it, along with references (links) to expert resources that will give you additional details. If we feel your problem is critical, we’ll display a warning like this: | Warning | Depending on the issue, we may recommend you stop using your fireplace or heating appliance right away and contact a professional.