The cost to reface a brick fireplace will vary depending on the size, design, and the materials selected. Generally, the average cost to reface a brick fireplace is around $2,378. This cost includes materials and labor for the job.
The cost of the materials needed for refinishing the brick fireplace typically range from $400 to $3000. These materials could include decorative tiles or stone, paint or stain, masonry sealer, and glue.
Additionally, the cost of the labor will vary depending on the complexity of the project and location; it can range anywhere from $150 to $400 per hour.
What can you do with a brick fireplace to update it?
One of the most popular ways to update a brick fireplace is to give it a fresh coat of paint. Painting over a brick fireplace with a neutral color such as white will lighten up the area, providing a bright, refreshed look to your home.
If you choose to paint over the brick, make sure that you use a heat-safe paint specifically designed for brick fireplaces.
Another way to update your brick fireplace is to add a faux stone or tile to the face of the fireplace. This will not only give the fireplace an entirely new look, but it will also provide an extra layer of insulation to keep your home warmer during winter months.
Additionally, tile has the added benefit of being very easy to clean, which is always a plus.
If you’re looking to make a more dramatic change, consider removing the brick and replacing it with natural stone. This will give your fireplace a much more polished and timeless look.
Finally, depending on the size of your fireplace, you may consider adding accessories like a mantel, mirror, or wall sconces. This will provide the perfect opportunity to show off your personality and give your space a more personalized touch.
How do you cover up old brick fireplace?
When it comes to covering up an old brick fireplace, there are a few options you can consider. One of the most popular approaches is to use paint. Priming the brick and then applying a few coats of paint can cover up the old brick completely and give you a fresh start with new color options.
Another option is to use a tile or stone overlay. This comes in a variety of sizes and materials and once installed, can completely transform the look of an old brick fireplace. You can also use brick slips, which are thin bricks cut into smaller sections.
These slips can be applied over the existing brick, creating a new and more modern look. Wood paneling is also another option. Installing wood paneling around the fireplace can give the room a warm and cozy atmosphere.
Depending on your budget and desired look, you can choose from a variety of materials and techniques to cover up an old brick fireplace.
Can you reface a brick fireplace with wood?
Yes, it is possible to reface a brick fireplace with wood. Many homeowners choose to update their brick fireplaces with a wooden mantle and surround. Doing so can give your fireplace a unique and modern look.
When refacing your fireplace with wood, first remove the existing mantel and surround. Then, add a layer of masonry adhesive to the brick and attach your wooden mantle and/or surround to it. Finally, caulk around the edges to ensure a tight seal and protect from moisture.
If done properly, using wood to reface a brick fireplace can really improve the atmosphere of a room.
How do you make an old fireplace look modern?
Making an old fireplace look modern is an exciting project that requires a bit of creativity and some elbow grease.
First, decide on a paint color to update the existing surface. There are a plethora of colors available, making it easy to find a shade that matches the rest of your décor. For a more dramatic look, opt for a bold, bright hue for the walls around the fireplace.
Once you’ve chosen the paint color, start by cleaning any soot or dirt from the area. Use a damp cloth and some mild soap to remove buildup from the surface and let it thoroughly dry. Next, apply a coat of primer to the walls around the fireplace.
This will help the paint adhere better so it will last longer.
Once the primer has dried, it’s time to paint. Use a brush for tight areas and a roller for larger surfaces for a smooth finish. After the first coat has dried, apply a second coat if needed. Once fully dry, check the area for any missed spots and touch it up with a brush or roller.
Finally, add a few modern-style accessories to refresh the look of your fireplace. Install a flat-screen TV above the mantel, hang a large mirror on the wall, or choose some sleek new andirons and tools to complete the modern look.
With the right touches, your old fireplace can be easily updated to suit any modern aesthetic.
Can you put stone veneer over brick fireplace?
Yes, you can put stone veneer over a brick fireplace. Stone veneer is an extremely versatile building material that can give your fireplace an eye-catching, dramatic facelift. When you apply stone veneer over your brick fireplace, the bricks are essentially covered up, so you can create a completely new look.
However, before starting this project, you should secure the underlying brick with a concrete backerboard to ensure that the masonry is stable and secure. Adhere the backerboard to the brick using masonry screws and construction adhesive.
From there, you can apply your stone veneer, using a masonry adhesive to attach it to the backerboard, and add a grout to seal off the seams.
If you plan to install a new mantel or shelf, you should leave space between it and the stone veneer so that it can expand and contract with changing temperatures. This can be done with spacers, allowing the mantel to be held back from the stone at least 3/8 inches.
Overall, adding stone veneer to your brick fireplace is a great way to significantly upgrade its look. With proper preparation, you can ensure that your fireplace will last for years to come.
What can you cover brick with?
Brick can be covered with a wide range of materials depending on the desired aesthetic and function of the surface. Brick can be covered with siding, such as aluminum, wood, vinyl, and fiber-cement, to add color to a home and additional protection from the elements.
Paint can be used to both coat the brick surface with a vibrant color and also to seal in any existing bricks. Stucco or a plaster-like material can be used to give a smooth texture to the brick surface.
Stone veneer can also be used to replicate the look of natural stone while costing less than real stone. Finally, tile or other hard finishes can be used to provide a waterproof and decorative surface to the brick.
Can you cover an old fireplace surround?
Yes, you can cover an old fireplace surround! Depending on what kind of aesthetic you are trying to create, there are a few different ways to do it. You can cover it with wood, paint it, or even tile it for a unique look.
If you choose wood, pick a species that is durable and suitable for the application. You’ll want to make sure the wood is sealed and stained to prevent it from warping and splitting from the heat. You’ll also want to leave air space around the side of the boards that touch the fireplace to avoid fire hazard.
If you decide to paint the surround, make sure to use a heat-resistant paint, and be sure to prepare the surface properly with sanding, cleaning, and priming. If tiling is more your style, make sure to choose a tile that can stand up to the heat of the fire, and is suitable for your space, like a stone mosaic or ceramic tile.
Be sure to use a heat-resistant mortar, and grout with a sealer to make sure all the tiles stay in place and look great!.
Can a brick fireplace be refaced?
Yes, you can reface a brick fireplace. Refacing a fireplace is a great way to give it a new look and make it the focal point of your home. While you can purchase a prefabricated refacing kit, it is possible to custom create a new look for your brick fireplace.
You may choose to add stone, tile, or stucco to refresh or change its look. You’ll also need to consider other options such as wood mantels, decorative hearths, new lighting, inserts, and glass doors.
Working with an experienced mason is the best way to ensure a successful refacing project. They can help you decide on the best material to use and provide the most accurate measurements for a custom fit.
After the refacing project is complete, you can crown the look with some custom trim work.
How do you modernize a fireplace on a budget?
Modernizing a fireplace on a budget is possible! Here are a few ideas for sprucing up an existing fireplace without breaking the bank:
1. Paint or tile the existing fireplace surround: This is an inexpensive way to refresh the look of the fireplace and add a modern touch.
2. Update the mantel: Replacing or re-staining the mantel can make a huge difference in the overall look of the fireplace. You can also add decorative touches, like candles or a seasonal display, to the mantel to heighten the modern design.
3. Change the lighting: Select updated lighting fixtures or wall sconces to create a modern feel.
4. Change the accessories: Swap out the hearth tools, match holders, and more for modern accessories.
5. Utilize wall space: Create a gallery wall to fill up the space and utilize the alcoves below the mantel for extra storage.
By making these few simple changes, you can create a modern fireplace without spending a fortune.
Are brick fireplaces coming back in style?
Yes, brick fireplaces are certainly coming back into style. For centuries, brick fireplaces have been a timeless way to not only warm up a space but also to offer an elegant, classic touch to a room.
With modern technology, brick fireplaces are now safer and more efficient than ever, making them an ideal choice for those looking to add a touch of class and comfort to their home.
Brick fireplaces can be used as the main feature of a room or as an accent to create a sense of warmth and coziness. They can be installed as full-length fireplaces with chimneys or as free-standing units with mantels.
They also come in various sizes, styles, and colors to fit any decor. Brick fireplaces are also customizable, with the ability to create any design or pattern you would like. With a variety of options available to homeowners, it’s easy to create an eye-catching and welcoming space.
Overall, brick fireplaces are a great way to bring a touch of warmth and history into any home. Their range of style options and increased safety features make them a great choice for anyone looking to add an inviting touch to their space.
What fireplaces are in fashion?
Fireplaces never really go out of fashion, as they provide a sense of comfort, style and warmth to any home. However, there are many different styles of fireplaces available, so it helps to be aware of the latest trends.
Wood-burning fireplaces are particularly popular right now. They provide a cozy feeling and a rustic atmosphere, and they can easily be customized with mantels or other features. Gas fireplaces are also common, as they are more convenient, easy to install and provide a instant heat.
Electric fireplaces are a great way to enjoy the ambiance of a real fire without the maintenance of wood or gas.
In terms of design, modern looks are popular for both wood-burning and gas fireplaces. They often feature sleek lines, simple materials and minimalistic designs. Regarding color, darker finishes such as black, gray or navy can make a dramatic statement, while lighter colors such as white or pastels can add a touch of elegance.
Placing the fireplace on the wall can draw attention to the space and create a sense of focus, while free-standing fireplaces offer a more traditional look.
Ultimately, the perfect fireplace depends on the individual style and needs of the homeowner. There is a wide variety of choices, so it’s important to consider the size and layout of the room, as well as what type of look you are trying to achieve.
Is brick out of style?
No, brick is not out of style. In fact, it has been used as a building material for hundreds of years and remains popular for a variety of reasons. Brick is versatile, durable, and can be a great choice for many applications.
Bricks can be used for both indoor and outdoor projects, and provide a classic, timeless look to any home or structure. A brick-style home or feature wall can instantly add charm and character to a space.
Brick is also relatively low maintenance, needing only periodic cleaning to maintain its integrity and beauty. With today’s range of color and texture options, as well as a variety of design possibilities, brick can be used to achieve a variety of styles for all types of homes, from traditional to modern, making it a popular choice for homeowners who are looking for a timeless and versatile look.
Should I paint my brick fireplace or not?
Whether or not to paint your brick fireplace is ultimately up to you, but there are some pros and cons to consider before making your decision. Painting your fireplace can certainly be a great way to give your home an updated and modern look, but it’s also a permanent decision, so it’s important to think through the implications.
On the plus side of painting your brick fireplace is the ability to update the look and color. This can create a whole new appearance in your room, while remaining relatively inexpensive and less labor-intensive than a full remodeling job.
With a new paint job, you can make sure your fireplace matches the décor and style you’re aiming for in your space.
On the downside, if you decide to paint your brick fireplace you are stuck with it for the foreseeable future. Unless you’re willing to invest in a heavy-duty cleaner–which often needs to be reapplied periodically–or a specialized paint stripper, it can be extremely difficult to remove the paint if you change your mind or decide you don’t like the color anymore.
Additionally, painting a brick fireplace can be a messy process, not to mention you’ll need to make sure you use the right type of paint for the job.
Ultimately, if you think it’s worth it and are sure you want to paint your fireplace, you should certainly go for it, as it could really add character to your space. But if you’re not sure, it might be best to explore other options, such as adding a mantel or surround to your existing brick fireplace.
What is a good color to paint a brick fireplace?
A popular option is to opt for a neutral color like white, cream, beige, or light gray. These colors will help make the fireplace blend in with the rest of the room and create a more cohesive look. If you want something more eye-catching than a neutral shade, you can go with warm, inviting colors like deep reds, oranges, and yellows, which will add warmth and energy to the room.
You can also paint the fireplace a cool shade of blue or green for a calming effect. Overall, the best color to paint a brick fireplace depends on your specific taste and the look and feel you want the room to have.
How can I make my unused fireplace look nice?
Making your unused fireplace look nice is a great way to spruce up the look of your living space. Depending on your style and preferences, there are a few ways you can go about it.
The first option is to use it as a decorative shelf or mantel. You can purchase a decorative mantel to place on top of the fireplace. This can be a great place to display curios, photos, or knick-knacks.
If you want to go a step further, you can even paint or wallpaper the inside of the fireplace to add a little more color and personality to your decor.
A second option is to turn it into a mini library. Install some built-in shelves and line them with your favorite books. This is also a great option for those who love to read and need more bookshelves.
The third option is to fill the fireplace with candles. Place the largest candle in the center and fill the area with various sizes and colors of smaller candles. This is a great way to add a warm and cozy feel to the room and make it a more inviting space for hosting.
Finally, consider turning it into an indoor planter. Fill it with some low-growing plants such as succulents, ivy, etc. This can give the room a more natural feel and make it look more lively.
No matter what option you decide to go with, making your unused fireplace look nice can be a great addition to your living space.
