Give your Ugly Fireplace a Makeover!

Is your fireplace clad in dated tile or discolored brick, or does your mantel look out of proportion or out of place? Giving a fireplace a new look may seem daunting, but it’s not as hard as it sounds. Transforming the appearance of a fireplace is usually well worth the time and expense, because if you like your fireplace, you’ll like your whole room a lot better! Here are some ideas to get you started:

1) Paint it. Brick fireplaces can be painted white for a crisp, fresh look. And think about painting the inside of the fireplace black, for a lot of contrast. Just be sure to check with a professional to make sure you are using the correct type of paint.

2) Change the Mantel. Replacing an existing mantel or adding one where there was previously none, can immediately change the character of a fireplace. A traditional fireplace can look modern by adding simple marble slabs, and a contemporary fireplace can be given a sense of age with a traditional wood mantel that has classical details. If using a combustible mantle, make sure you are following the proper local codes and/or fireplace manufacturer specs for “clearances to combustibles”. For a list of non-combustible mantles, check out link #1 and link #2 below.

3) Install a Creative Surround. Try eliminating a ledge or shelf above the fireplace altogether, and clad the wall around the fireplace in colorful mosaic tile. For a more monolithic appearance, a fireplace can be resurfaced in concrete or natural stone in the same way.

4) Transform the Whole Wall. Sometimes replacing the mantel or painting the fireplace just isn’t enough. The whole wall that houses the fireplace may need attention. Contractors can build a new wall in front of it, floor to ceiling, to conceal the entire expanse. It creates a cleaner look and the opportunity to add a custom mantel to the remaining fireplace. Check out Stoll wall systems click here: https://www.stollindustries.com/walls/ .

Transforming the appearance of an unloved fireplace can pay big dividends. The fireplace can help tie the whole house together. Give it a try!