Cover Up Brick Fireplace With Drywall

Cover Up Brick Fireplace With Drywall: A Step-by-Step Guide

A brick fireplace can be a beautiful focal point, but it might not always align with your home's aesthetic or functional needs. Covering it up with drywall is a viable option to achieve a more modern look or improve energy efficiency.

This guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to cover up a brick fireplace with drywall. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure a successful and professional-looking outcome.

Materials Required:

Drywall
Drywall screws
Drywall tape
Joint compound
Putty knife
Sandpaper
Primer
Paint

Step 1: Prepare the Fireplace

Remove any existing mantel, trim, or decorations around the fireplace. Clean the brick surface thoroughly to remove any soot, dust, or debris. Ensure the fireplace is fully cooled before starting work.

Step 2: Install Furring Strips

Furring strips are necessary to create a level surface for drywall installation. They should be made of wood or metal and spaced evenly, typically 16 inches apart. Attach the furring strips to the brick using screws or masonry nails.

Step 3: Install Drywall

Cut drywall panels to fit the dimensions of the fireplace opening, allowing for a slight overlap with the furring strips. Screw the drywall into the furring strips, spacing screws about 6 inches apart. Use a countersink bit to recess the screws slightly below the drywall surface.

Step 4: Tape and Joint

Apply drywall tape over the joints between drywall panels. Cover the tape with joint compound and smooth it out with a putty knife. Allow the joint compound to dry completely before repeating the process with a second coat.

Step 5: Sand and Finish

Once the joint compound is dry, sand the surface smooth with sandpaper. Apply a primer to the drywall and allow it to dry. Finally, paint the covered-up fireplace to match the surrounding walls or your desired color scheme.

Tips:

Wear a dust mask when working with drywall and joint compound.
Use a level to ensure the drywall is installed evenly.
If the fireplace is not completely flat, you may need to use a layer of cement board or backer board before installing the drywall.
For a more authentic look, consider using a brick veneer over the drywall instead of paint.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully cover up a brick fireplace with drywall and transform the look of your room while improving its energy efficiency.