I want to paint my LR fireplace... do I need to put a primer first?

Fran
by Fran
May try white-washing it. Do I need to put a primer on first. My husband is going to have a fit!!!!!

  7 answers
  • Linda Sikut Linda Sikut on Jul 02, 2018

    Hi Fran,

    No you don't need to prime it. I white-washed my old Z-Brick on my fireplace wall and I used 1 part flat white latex paint mixed with 2 parts water. My project is on Hometalk so feel free to take a look. Wishing you the best.

    https://www.hometalk.com/diy/paint/how-to-white-wash-with-paint-35254508?r=2

  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Jul 02, 2018

    https://www.hometalk.com/diy/living-room/fireplaces-mantels/how-to-white-wash-your-fireplace-or-brick-2103998?r=2

  • DesertRose DesertRose on Jul 02, 2018

    Hi Fran, how fun redoing your fireplace! If you decide to chalk paint it, you do not need to prime it first. You need to be careful though about what paint you do use around the fireplace. I found you a site that lists, describes and demonstrates the various ways you can paint your fireplace surround. I hope this helps: https://www.truevaluepaint.com/painting-101/faux-techniques/

  • Agnes Agnes on Jul 02, 2018

    Yes u need a primer before you paint with the original paint good luck with your husband

    • Fran Fran on Jul 02, 2018

      Thank you. He's a sweet man but he's one of those who doesn't like change and this will be drastic.

  • Vimarhonor Vimarhonor on Jul 02, 2018

    Hello Fran, I hope you consider taking pictures before and after and show us your rehab results. You can inspire a few of us to get a little braver. The updated ones HGTV sure look amazing when the professional fixer-uppers do it! Best wishes on your fireplace rehab!

  • Fran Fran on Jul 02, 2018

    I will. The operative word is "professional fixer-uppers". Thanks

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Oct 02, 2022

    Maybe just try a few Random Bricks first!