How To Whitewash Brick Fireplace With Paint

Whitewashing a brick fireplace with paint is a great way to update the look of your home. It's a relatively easy project that can be completed in a weekend. Here are the steps on how to whitewash brick fireplace with paint:

Materials You'll Need:

Drop cloths
Painter's tape
TSP cleaner
Bucket
Sponge
White latex paint
Paintbrush or roller
Rags

Step 1: Prepare the Fireplace

Start by laying down drop cloths around the fireplace to protect the floor and surrounding area from paint. Use painter's tape to tape off any areas that you don't want to be painted, such as the mantel or hearth.

Step 2: Clean the Brick

Next, clean the brick with TSP cleaner. This will remove any dirt or grime that could interfere with the paint adhering to the brick. Wet a sponge with the TSP cleaner and wipe down the brick. Rinse the brick with clean water and allow it to dry completely.

Step 3: Apply the Whitewash

Once the brick is dry, you can start applying the whitewash. Pour some white latex paint into a bucket. Dip a paintbrush or roller into the paint and apply it to the brick. Use even strokes and work in small sections. Don't worry about getting the paint perfectly even, as the whitewash effect is meant to be slightly uneven.

Step 4: Distress the Finish (Optional)

If you want to give your fireplace a more distressed look, you can lightly sand the paint after it has dried. This will create a more aged and rustic appearance. Be careful not to sand too much, as you don't want to remove the paint completely.

Step 5: Clean Up

Once you're finished painting, clean up any spills or drips. Remove the painter's tape and dispose of the drop cloths. Allow the fireplace to dry completely before using it.