Autumn is here, and many of us will be spending a lot more time at home over the coming months. Que Zoom meetings, pjs and if you’re lucky enough to have a log burner or working fireplace, the crackle of a warm cosy fire…
But if your fireplace is looking a little unloved, why not take the opportunity to smarten it up ready for the colder days ahead? Painting the area behind a log burner or the mantelpiece itself is an easy way to transform the area.
~ Preparation is key ~
Spring, summer or autumn are the ideal times of year to do this job, as the fire is less likely to be in use. First of all, the whole area needs a thorough clean. Be sure that all soot, dust and residual ash is swept and vacuumed.
If you’re painting the area behind your wood burner, use a stiff wire brush to remove buildup from any crevices in brickwork and ensure any loose mortar is removed. Dusty bricks can be stabilised with a diluted coat of Earthborn’s breathable Wall Glaze prior to painting.
Any dry stains can be treated first with Earthborn’s Isolating Primer – a couple of coats may be required if the staining is heavy. This will block the stain from bleeding through to the paintwork. Then make sure the surfaces are clean, sound, dry and stable.
For wooden mantelpieces, lightly sand the area prior to priming. Mask off any areas of the wall then apply Earthborn’s Multi Purpose Primer, a water-based all-round primer that’s quick-drying and easy to use.
In both cases, don’t forget to protect the stove or fireplace itself using plastic sheets. The last thing you want is splashes of paint on a black wood-burning stove or decorative fire!
Which paint is suitable for fireplace surrounds?
For wooden mantelpieces which aren’t affected by the heat of a fire, water-based wood paint is ideal. Earthborn’s Eggshell No. 17 has a soft sheen finish that’s durable and wipeable. Plus its eco-friendly formulation means it doesn’t emit any harmful emissions, so your room can return to normal in no time.
~ Painting the area behind stoves or log burners ~
Most modern paints aren’t designed to withstand high temperatures, and can easily discolour, bubble and flake off. Earthborn Claypaint however, has a high clay content and is free from acrylics and oils, meaning it can withstand very high temperatures. Its flat matt finish also complements the soft glow of a fire and adds to the cosy feel of the space.
When the area is ready for painting, dilute the first coat of Claypaint with around 20% water. This is especially important on porous surfaces like brick or plaster. Claypaint can be applied by brush or short pile roller. Follow with a full coat of Claypaint for a perfect finish. Allow the paint to thoroughly dry overnight before lighting your fire.
Then sit back and enjoy your handiwork!
Perhaps it’s not just the fireplace surround that you’re looking to paint? For Earthborn’s top tips on how to paint any room click here
To view the full range of Earthborn Paints click here
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