Ideal Paint Types to Use Inside Fireplaces

Transforming the interior of a fireplace with a fresh coat of paint can have a dramatic impact and completely change the look and feel of a room. While painting over brick, stone, or metal may seem daunting, it's actually a relatively simple project for most homeowners to tackle. The key is using the right type of durable, high-heat paint formulated specifically for fireplace interiors.

We'll suggest ideal paint options, provide application tips, and share before and after photos for inspiration.

Preparing the Fireplace Surface

Before applying any paint, the surface needs to be cleaned thoroughly to remove all loose debris, previous paint, soot, oils, and dust. Here's an overview of suggested preparation steps:

• Use a wire brush attachment on a power drill to scrub away chunks of mortar or paint.
• Wipe down all surfaces with TSP substitute mixed with warm water to degrease the bricks.
• Rinse thoroughly and let the fireplace dry completely for at least 24 hours.
• Fill any cracks or uneven areas with high-heat spackling paste. Allow to dry fully.
• Lightly sand using 150-220 grit sandpaper to smooth repaired spots.
• Vacuum up all dust using a soft brush attachment. Tack cloth the entire surface.
• Apply the recommended primer coat and let fully dry overnight.

Choosing the Right Paint and Primer

The type of primer and paint depends largely on the fireplace construction material. Here are our top recommendations:

• Bulls Eye 123 Water-Based Primer
• Rust-Oleum High Heat Paint (1200degF)
• BEHR Premium Masonry Paint

• Zinsser Bulls Eye 123 Primer
• Rust-Oleum High Heat Enamel Spray
• Stove Bright High Temperature Paint

• KILZ Adhesion High-Heat Primer
• Rutland Flat Black Stove Paint
• Forrest Heat Resistant Enamel

Factors That Impact Paint Selection

With so many high-temperature paint options for fireplace interiors, it can get confusing to select the right product. Here are the most important factors to evaluate:

Maximum Heat Tolerance

Heat tolerance ranges widely based on the binders and pigments used in the paint formulation. For firebox surfaces that directly contact flames, look for a maximum heat resistance of 1000degF to 1200degF.

Sheen Level

Flat or matte paint finishes often hold up best in high heat environments. Glossy enamel surfaces can discolor at lower temperatures. Satin/eggshell finishes offer a nice compromise.

Coverage & Application Method

Thick viscosity paints like Rust-Oleum 2X cover better for fewer coats. Spray application is the most efficient for fireplaces, but brush painting works if spraying inside enclosed spaces.

Intended Use & Exposure

If mainly painting the outer hearth or facade, a 500degF heat tolerance may suffice. But firebox, smoke chamber and chimney surfaces need 2000degF resistance.

Tips for Applying High Heat Paint

Once you have prepped the surface and selected compatible paint products, follow these best practices for application:

• Cover floors, mantels and surrounds to protect from accidental drips
• Use an angled paintbrush for hard to reach spots
• Apply in 50degF to 90degF working temperatures
• Allow each coat to fully cure 72 hours as indicated
• Lightly sand glossy surfaces between coats
• Add subsequent coats within 7 days to ensure adhesion

Common Mistakes

When working with specialized high heat paints, there are also some mistakes to avoid:

• Applying too thick of a coat that drips or sags
• Not allowing proper cure times between coats
• Mixing latex wall paints rather than heat-resistant formulas
• Painting directly over grease or oils
• Spray painting without proper ventilation

Preparing for the First Fire

Once the high temperature paint has fully cured, you'll be ready to lightly fire up your stove or fireplace again. Follow these tips that first time to set the paint:

• Allow paint to cure at least 72 hours before heating
• Keep fire small, burning for no longer than one hour
• Crack doors or windows to allow paint off-gassing
• Let surfaces slowly come back to room temperature
• Avoid placing hands directly on painted surfaces

Gradually increase fire size over 2-3 sessions. This helps fully set the paint while avoiding damage from sudden high heat exposure.

Maintenance & Touch-Ups

Even quality high heat paint can become damaged or faded over time. Here is how to properly maintain and reapply as needed:

• Allow paint to come to room temperature before cleaning
• Use a soft brush and vacuum attachment to remove loose debris
• Repair cracked or damaged areas with touch-up brush
• Spot paint faded areas that are less than 20% of the surface
• Completely reapply paint if greater than 20% is worn or peeling

With proper care between new coats of stove or fireplace paint, you should anticipate only minor periodic touching up. Harsh weather and frequent hot fires may accelerate the need for repainting every 2-3 years.

The Pros & Cons of Painting Fireplace Interiors

From a decorative standpoint, paint provides an affordable way to change the look of brick or metal fireplace surfaces. But there are also functional benefits as well as some potential drawbacks to consider:

The Pros

• Protects masonry from heat damage
• Easier to clean smoke stains or creosote
• Opportunity to match surrounding decor
• Seals dust and allergens from mortar pits

The Cons

• Fumes require proper ventilation
• Surface prep can be labor intensive
• Dark colors show dust, ash easily
• Paint could peel from metal if not primed

Painting the inside of your fireplace or stove provides a fast way to improve its appearance and protect it from heat exposure over time. As long as the correct preparation, painting and curing steps are followed, a fresh coat of high temperature paint or enamel can hold up for years.

Focus on proper cleaning, priming and paint selection for the specific application. Allow all recommended dry and cure times before placing the first logs. Then maintain the finish with gentle brush cleaning and touch-ups as needed.