Fireplace mantles frame fireplaces and provide display for pictures and decorative accessories such as candlesticks. Unfortunately, mantles may stain with soot over time as they are close to firebox. Painting a fireplace mantle can add vibrancy and color to any space, covering up discoloration or simply adding a change of pace to the room's decorating scheme. Painting a fireplace mantle requires some specific prep work, but it is not overly difficult with the right tools and technique.
Instructions
Wood Mantle
1. Apply paint remove to remove any existing gloss or paint. Let the paint remover soak for 20 to 30 minutes, as recommended by DoItYourself.com, then scrape off the paint and excess remover with a putty knife. Wear work gloves as paint remover can irritate skin.
2. Allow the mantel to dry. Fill in any small cracks with wood filler and a putty knife. Over time, mantles can get a little dinged up. While taking this opportunity to repair minor damage, call an independent contractor to fix any major damage unearthed during the repainting process.
3. Use 100-grit sandpaper to buff out small scratches and smooth any dried wood filler.
4. Tape the edges of the mantle to prevent accidentally getting paint on nearby walls or a fireplace surround.
5. Apply a coat of acrylic primer with a paintbrush. Let the primer dry before continuing with the next step; drying times vary depending on the brand, so consult the primer can for the best drying estimates.
6. Apply water or oil-based paint to the freshly primed mantle with a paintbrush.
7. Allow at least two to three hours for the paint to dry, then touch up bare spots or add a second coat if needed.
8. Remove the painter's tape when you've finished painting. Do not return items to the mantle for at least 24 hours; paint can sometimes be a little tacky even after it dries.
Brick or Concrete Mantle
9. Clean the mantle thoroughly using soap and water and allow to dry. Drying will typically take about 1 to 2 hours.
10. Use painter's tape to protect the edges of your walls from accidental paint application.
11. Apply an acrylic primer to the mantle with a paintbrush. Wait for the primer to dry. Consult the container for the most accurate drying times. When applying primer, you can expect very small, hairline cracks to fill in with the primer and become virtually undetectable; however, larger cracks should be professionally repaired before you continue painting.
12. Apply paint to the mantle with a paintbrush. House-Painting-Info.com explains that water based paints are the best choice for brick projects, whereas either water or oil based products can be used on wooden projects.
13. Re-coat if there are still bare spots after the first layer or paint has dried. Remove the painter's tape when finished, but do not place items back on the mantle for at least 24 hours to ensure the best possible results.
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