Upcycle Your Outdated Red Brick Fireplace with Clever DIY Makeover Ideas
Is your red brick fireplace starting to show its age? Dated red brick can make a living room feel drab and dull. But don't despair - with some clever DIY tricks, you can give your outdated fireplace a whole new look on a budget!
From whitewashing to paint techniques, tile, and mantel makeovers, we'll cover foolproof tips to revive your vintage fireplace.
Give Whitewashing a Try for Subtle, Rustic Charm
One of the most popular makeovers for a red brick fireplace is whitewashing. This technique gives the brick a soft, chalky, matte finish by applying a whitewash mixture of hydrated lime and water.
Whitewashing brick has a gentle effect, preserving some of the texture while muting the red tones. It's perfect if you want a subtle update with rustic farmhouse appeal.
Gather These Supplies for Whitewashing
- Hydrated lime
- Water
- Large bucket
- Stiff bristle brush
- Paint roller
- Paintbrush
Be sure to thoroughly clean the brick first with a wire brush and shop vac. Repair any damaged areas, then let the surface dry completely before starting.
Follow This Step-By-Step Whitewash Process
Mix the hydrated lime and water to a thin, milk-like consistency. Apply a thin coat using a paint roller, then use a stiff bristle brush to work the whitewash into the brick's pores and textures. Let dry 24 hours, then repeat for a second coat.
If desired, go back over with a paintbrush for more controlled coverage and to soften edges. Wait at least 72 hours before sealing the surface with a matte sealer.
Whitewashing takes a delicate touch, but the effects are worth it. And it's budget-friendly at around 50 cents per square foot!
Before and After Photos Show the Striking Transformation
Seeing the dramatic yet softening effect of whitewashing on red brick fireplaces is believing. The before and after photos speak for themselves.
Limewash Brick for a Faster-Drying Whitewash Alternative
Limewash is similar to whitewash but uses limestone and water rather than hydrated lime. It dries much faster and works well on porous brick.
Whip Up This DIY Limewash Recipe
Simply mix 1 part limestone powder with 3-4 parts water to create your limewash. Strain before use to remove any undissolved lumps. Apply in thin layers using a paint roller or brush, letting each layer dry 2-3 hours before adding the next.
Seal and Cure Limewashed Brick Properly
After the final limewash layer dries 24 hours, apply a limewash sealer. This helps cure and harden the limewash. Curing takes about 28 days, during which time the brick should be kept dry.
Limewashing can update your fireplace faster than whitewashing. It also enhances the brick's natural patina for rustic appeal.
Achieve Beautiful "Schmear" Effects with Paint
German schmear techniques using paint are another way to overlay brick with color and texture. But true schmear requires thick layers of mortar - a messy process!
Faux schmear with paint is an easy shortcut. You paint and then distress the brick to mimic the chippy, varied texture of mortar applications.
Supplies Needed for Faux Schmear Techniques
- Interior masonry paint
- Chip brush
- Paint scraper
- Sandpaper
Prepare the brick surface as you would for whitewashing or painting. Then apply a coat of masonry paint in your desired color using a chip brush. Let dry completely before distressing.
Distress the Paint for an Authentic Schmear Look
Use scrapers, stiff brushes, and sandpaper to lightly distress the dried paint and expose some of the underlying brick texture. Work randomly for a natural, varied look. Seal with a clear matte sealer when done.
Faux schmear adds rich color and dimension. And you avoid the mess and hassle of real mortar!
Paint the Fireplace Brick Any Color You Desire
Looking to make a bold, dramatic statement with your red brick fireplace? Painting the brick offers unlimited color options for maximum visual impact.
Use Proper Prep and Paint for Best Results
As always, thorough prep work is key. Clean debris, make repairs, and prime before painting. Be sure to use high-quality interior masonry paint able to withstand heat.
Build up thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between each. Add a finish coat of matte sealer to protect the finish.
Painting does obscure the natural brick texture, so consider whitewashing or schmear techniques if preserving some texture is important to you.
Choose a Color Complementary to Your Decor
Opt for an on-trend neutral like greige or taupe for a modern feel, soft white for a rustic vibe, or navy blue for drama. Always pick a color that complements your interior decor and brings out the fireplace details.
Paint offers unlimited potential to revamp your red brick fireplace affordably. Just take care in preparing, priming, painting and sealing the surface properly.
Add Stone or Tile for Texture and Visual Interest
Looking to preserve your fireplace's brickwork while adding color and interest? Applying stone or tile over the existing brick is a beautiful option.
Thin Veneer Stone Offers Lightweight Simplicity
Thin natural or faux stone veneers in materials like manufactured stone, stacked slate, or porcelain are readily available. The thin profile makes these systems easy for DIY installation.
Use a mortar or adhesive designed for the veneer type, taking care to prep and clean the brick surface first. Seek professional help if unsure about achieving a secure application.
Tile Options: Porcelain, Ceramic, or Faux Panels
Real or faux tile in ceramic, porcelain, or peel-and-stick panels can also refresh your fireplace facade. Use high-heat options for safety and durability.
Natural grout lines will add to the texture. If desired, remove some grout post-installation for a more organic look.
Stone or tile facades let you revamp your fireplace without obscuring the entire brick surface. Choose materials and colors complementary to your home's style.
Update the Mantel and Hearth for Added Impact
If your floor-to-ceiling brick fireplace feels overpowering, updating the mantel and hearth can soften the look.
A Fresh Coat of Paint Modernizes Wood Mantels
Painting your existing mantel a crisp white or on-trend color like navy immediately modernizes it. Sand and prime the surface first for best results.
For a more dramatic change, install a new pre-made mantel in a contrasting finish and style to your current one.
New Hearth Materials Transform the Look
Cover your existing brick hearth with tile, stone, or wood planks to complement updates to the fireplace itself. This can make the hearth feel like an integrated part of the design.
Floating shelves installed above the mantel provide the perfect space for decor and add to your fireplace makeover.
DIY Floating Shelves Surround Your Fireplace With Style
Installing custom floating shelves on the walls surrounding your fireplace instantly expands the display and styling potential.
A Variety of Shelf Materials Offer Versatility
Stained wood, steel, thick glass, and even reclaimed boards can be made into floating shelves. Choose a material that complements your decor and fireplace style.
Install the shelves at varying heights and widths for a dynamic look. Add decor like plants, baskets, candles, books, or decorative objects to bring the space to life.
Follow Best Practices for Secure Shelf Installation
When installing floating shelves around a fireplace, be sure to properly anchor to wall studs for stability. Heavy-duty brackets and precisely measured layouts are a must.
Floating shelves make it easy to customize your fireplace area with beautiful, affordable DIY style.
A Fresh Coat of Paint on Surrounding Walls Makes a Big Impact
Don't overlook how much a simple coat of paint on the walls surrounding your fireplace can lift the entire space.
Choose Colors that Complement Your Decor
Color selection is key. Neutral whites and tans promote an airy ambiance, while navy blue or forest green create dramatic contrast with red brick. Always sample colors on the wall before fully committing.
Paint the walls, window trim, and even the ceiling to take your makeover to the next level. Add crown molding for a classic touch.
Proper Prep Ensures Smooth Results
As with any paint project, prep the walls by washing, spackling imperfections, sanding, and priming before painting for best results. Use painter's tape and drop cloths to protect floors and surfaces.
With some strategic color choices and elbow grease, a simple wall paint refresh can fully transform your fireplace.
As you can see, a dated or dark red brick fireplace doesn't have to be a lost cause. With some creativity and DIY grit, you can reimagine your fireplace on a budget.
Whether you whitewash, stencil, paint, or add tile and floating shelves, the possibilities to upgrade your red brick fireplace are almost endless. Use these tips to craft a cozy fireplace that sparks joy and becomes a focal point once more.
Let us know if we can help explain any DIY fireplace makeover steps in more detail. Our goal is to provide the know-how and inspiration you need to successfully update your red brick fireplace with clever, cost-effective solutions.