How To Refinish An Old Stone Fireplace Mantels

How to Refinish an Old Stone Fireplace Mantel

Stone fireplace mantels can add a touch of rustic charm to any home, but over time, they can become dull, stained, or chipped. If your stone fireplace mantel is looking a little worse for wear, don't despair! With a little elbow grease and the right materials, you can refinish it to its former glory.

Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, you'll need to gather the following materials:

* A stiff-bristled brush * A mild detergent * A bucket of water * A sponge * A soft cloth * A stone cleaner * A stone sealer * A grout brush * A grout sponge * A grout sealer * A paintbrush * A latex paint (optional)

Clean the Mantel

The first step is to clean the mantel thoroughly. Use the stiff-bristled brush to remove any loose dirt or debris. Then, mix a solution of mild detergent and water in the bucket. Dip the sponge into the solution and wring it out. Use the sponge to wipe down the mantel, taking care not to scrub too hard. Rinse the mantel with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.

Repair Any Damage

If the mantel has any chips or cracks, you'll need to repair them before you can refinish it. For small chips, you can use a stone epoxy. For larger cracks, you may need to consult with a professional mason.

Clean the Grout

If the mantel has grout, you'll need to clean it as well. Use the grout brush to remove any loose dirt or debris. Then, mix a solution of stone cleaner and water in the bucket. Dip the grout sponge into the solution and wring it out. Use the sponge to wipe down the grout, taking care not to scrub too hard. Rinse the mantel with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.

Seal the Mantel

Once the mantel is clean and dry, you can seal it. Apply a thin coat of stone sealer to the mantel using the paintbrush. Allow the sealer to dry completely.

Seal the Grout

If the mantel has grout, you'll need to seal it as well. Apply a thin coat of grout sealer to the grout using the paintbrush. Allow the sealer to dry completely.

Paint the Mantel (Optional)

If you want to change the color of the mantel, you can paint it. Use a latex paint that is specifically designed for stone. Apply a thin coat of paint to the mantel using the paintbrush. Allow the paint to dry completely.

Enjoy Your Refinished Mantel

Once the mantel is refinished, you can enjoy its beauty for years to come. Keep in mind that stone is a natural material, and it will wear over time. To keep your mantel looking its best, clean it regularly with a mild detergent and water solution. You may also want to apply a new coat of stone sealer every few years.