Fireplace update help
by
Edith L
+11
The photo is similar to my fireplace, except it is a dark wood, not white. I want to do something so that it is not such a black hole. Has anyone tiled over slate? Or any ideas to update or brighten it? Thanks!
13 answers
-
Hi Edith, with regards to tiling over slate... Although it technically could be done, the end result will be very thick and leave you with a less than desirable result. Your best bet is to remove the slate and replace it with something you like better. I would say this will require at least an intermediate skill level. I personally like the black but not with white mantle. If your surround is dark wood, maybe lightening it would help brighten. I would also keep the wall it is on a lighter tone. Hope this is of some help to you! Good luck!
Holly Jensen
on Jan 22, 2016
-
This site may help you update your fireplace without trying to tile over slate. homeguides.sfgate.com/restore-slate-fire-surround-43067.html
Janet Pizaro
on Jan 22, 2016
-
Do you actually light a fire in your fireplace? If not, decorate it instead of doing something so permanent. A painted fireplace screen, baskets with plants, a multitude of candles and various sized candles holders, the possibilities are endless. And easily changed.
Ellen DeVilbiss
on Jan 22, 2016
-
All are good ideas. But first, lightening the dark surround is a first step in lessening the 'black hole in space'. Then consider the re-tile options. The actual hearth may be your biggest issue then and can be expensive to replace. The center fire pit will remain black if used, but can be decorated when not in use, but it also can be painted if not used much or splotchy. There is spray paint for this if need be.
Johnchip
on Jan 22, 2016
-
Mosaic tiles. It's incredibly easy.
Melanie Fowler Gross
on Jan 22, 2016
-
I've seen fireplaces done with mosaic tiles, they all turn out gorgeous, and there's such an array of colors to choose from. It's not hard to do, not sure about the slate though, but it shouldn't be too hard to remove it, it would probably look better. Good luck.
Cindi
on Jan 22, 2016
-
You can also add fireplace rocks inside. It comes in all different colors and really adds a lot visually. Here is a link just so you can see what it looks like and the different colors that are available. It's beautiful whether you burn the fireplace or not. If you don't, you can think about removing the logs and adding candles inside nestled in the rock. You can also paint the outer black box. Make sure if you use the fireplace though that you use paint made specifically for high temperatures. They sell it in Lowe's and Home Depot. Also make sure if you use the fireplace and you want to add rock that you get the kind made specifically for fireplaces and fire pits. Good luck!
The Redesign Habit
on Jan 22, 2016
-
Yes you can. Here a link for you. http://homeguides.sfgate.com/tile-fireplace-23090.html
LD
on Jan 22, 2016
-
I wouldn't do anything to this fireplace . It is beautiful now.
Janice Grizzle
on Jan 22, 2016
-
You could put travertine tiles on it. Here's a post on what I did to our screen but it shows the travertine on the picture. You may not like the color we used but that's an easy fix. http://www.addvaluetoyourhome.ca/how-to-paint-your-brass-fireplace-screen/
Debi @ Debi Collinson Interiors
on Jan 22, 2016
-
thanks for all the ideas.
Edith L
on Jan 23, 2016
-
You say that your fire surround mantle are dark wood not the white of this picture.What colours are your walls? I don't believe the slate is your problem but the colour of the surround. This you can choose to be any colour that will blend with your walls
Judy Allan
on Jan 25, 2016
-
Sorry, thought I put the link in there....here is one: https://www.starfiredirect.com/fireplace/fireplace-glass-more.html?gclid=CLjs4MHKxcoCFRApaQodYewCQg
The Redesign Habit
on Jan 25, 2016
Sign Up to Answer
