How To Whitewash A Brick Fireplace

Dull, dark outdated brick can ruin the look of your entire room.  With the recent trend of light, bright and white decorating, there’s no room for a bright red brick wall or a dark brown brick fireplace from the 1970’s.

So what’s a homeowner to do? Tear down the offending structure and spend thousands of dollars in the process? Not necessarily.  There’s a less expensive option that will cover up the brick and give new life to your room. Perhaps you’ve heard of it. It’s called “whitewashing”.

Whitewashing a brick fireplace involves applying a thin coat of white paint mixed with water all over your brick to tone down the dark color and create a lighter, softer look.  The technique, relatively inexpensive and not too time-consuming, requires little expertise so even the least experienced DIY’er can tackle the project and feel confident the results will be perfect.

Looking for the right product to start your whitewashing makeover? Our favorite is the Giani Brick Transformations Paint Kit. This product is affordable and get's the job done with little hassle.

Steps To Whitewash a Brick Fireplace

Bricka fireplace whitewashing is a straightforward process, but the approach varies depending on whether the brick has been previously painted or is still in its natural state. Follow the correct set of instructions for your situation.

Tools and Materials You'll Need To Whitewash a Brick Fireplace

Before starting, gather the necessary supplies to ensure a smooth process:

• Brick-Anew white fireplace paint – specifically designed for fireplace surfaces
• Water
• Paintbrushes (preferably a large brush and a smaller one for details)
• Painter’s tape
• Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
• Cleaning supplies (mild soap, sponge, scrub brush)
• Rags or sponges for blending the paint
• Mixing container
• Stir stick
• Protective gloves

Instructions for an Unpainted Brick Fireplace

1. Clean the brick – Use a mild soap and water solution to remove dust, soot, or grime. A scrub brush may be needed for stubborn dirt. Allow the brick to dry completely.
   
   
2. Protect surrounding areas – Cover the floor and nearby walls with a drop cloth or plastic sheeting. Use painter’s tape to protect adjacent surfaces.
   
   
3. Mix the whitewash – Combine water with white fireplace paint at a 2:1 ratio. So add around 16 ounces of water to 8 ounces of fireplace paint and mix it together for a sheer look. If necessary, adjust the mixture to achieve the level of opacity you prefer.
   
   
4. Apply the whitewash – Dip a paintbrush into the mixture and start applying the whitewash in small sections. Work in light, even strokes to avoid over-saturating the brick.
   
   
5. Blend the paint – Use a clean rag or sponge to blot and blend the paint, ensuring a natural, uneven effect that mimics aged, weathered brick.
   
   
6. Adjust the coverage – If the whitewash looks too heavy, dab it with a damp sponge to remove excess paint. If it appears too light, apply a second coat after the first dries.
   
   
7. Let it dry – Allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours before using the fireplace.

Instructions for a Painted Brick Fireplace

If your brick fireplace has already been painted, the process differs slightly since the brick’s porous surface is sealed. Here’s how to whitewash a painted brick fireplace:

1. Clean the surface – Use a damp sponge and mild soap to remove dust and soot. If the existing paint is glossy, lightly sand the surface to improve adhesion.
   
   
2. Protect the area – Cover floors, furniture, and nearby walls with a drop cloth, and tape off any areas that shouldn’t be painted.
   
   
3. Prepare the paint – Mix the white fireplace paint with water, but use a lower dilution ratio (about 2:1 paint to water) since painted brick doesn’t absorb paint as readily.
   
   
4. Apply the whitewash – Use a paintbrush or roller to apply the mixture in thin, even layers. For a more natural look, use a rag or sponge to blend the paint while it’s still wet.
   
   
5. Add texture – If you want some of the original color to peek through, lightly wipe off excess paint with a damp cloth before it dries completely.
   
   
6. Let it dry – Allow the whitewash to dry fully before assessing if a second coat is needed. If desired, apply another thin layer for added coverage.

Why Should You Whitewash Your Brick Fireplace?

Whitewashing a brick fireplace is one of the easiest ways to modernize your space without completely covering the character of the brick. It lightens the room, creates a fresh and airy feel, and blends seamlessly with various interior styles—from rustic to contemporary. Unlike painting, which can look flat and uniform, whitewashing enhances the brick’s texture while toning down overly dark or dated hues.

Another major advantage is that whitewashing is a low-commitment update. Since the paint is diluted, it’s less opaque than a full coat, making it easier to tweak or even remove in the future if your style preferences change.