FIREPLACE UPDATE
What’s the best way to paint an old fireplace?
If you have a wood surround that sits around a cast-iron fireplace, the heat will rarely reach it, so as long as the wood is prepared properly you can use a standard wood paint. Satin, semi-gloss or eggshell paints are more durable and wipeable than a matt finish. Don’t use emulsion as this isn’t as durable. If you have a cast-iron fireplace you will need a paint that is suitable for metal.
If parts of your wood or metal fireplace are going to be exposed to higher than normal temperatures you should consider using a heat-resistant paint.
STEP 1. GET YOUR WORK AREA READY
The cleaning and sanding of a fireplace can make a lot of mess so make sure you clear the space around the area you are working in and lay down dust sheets. You can use painters’ tape on the edges of the sheets to stop them moving.
STEP 2. PREPARE THE SURFACE
If your fireplace has been painted previously your prep will depend on the condition of the paint. If it is in a decent condition, simply rub down. If it’s in a poor state, you will need to remove as much of the old paint as possible. If you want to go back to a bare surface and start from scratch use a heat gun to help remove the old paint. Use a two- or three-inch paint scraper for flat surfaces and a shave hook to get into more
