Updating your fireplace can dramatically transform a room’s aesthetic. While repainting walls or replacing flooring are relatively straightforward, fireplace renovations often feel more complicated. Fortunately, you can give your fireplace a fresh look without resorting to a full demolition. Here’s how.
Refreshing a Fireplace Without Major Renovation
Home renovation experts suggest several accessible techniques to breathe new life into an outdated fireplace, avoiding costly and disruptive full-scale renovations.
Paint or Refinish the Surround
A simple coat of paint can have a significant impact. Kevin Vander Hyde, Vice President of Vander Hyde Services, recommends using heat-resistant paint to completely change the fireplace’s look, particularly when removing and replacing surrounding materials isn’t feasible.
The possibilities with paint are vast. While a solid coat can cover brick, stone, or other materials, consider experimenting with patterns and multiple colors. A creative touch would be painting each tile to mimic a brand-new patterned tile.
Adding or Updating a Mantel
Replacing or adding a mantel is a simple yet impactful update.
“Installing a sleek mantel made of wood, stone, or reclaimed materials can modernize the space and create a focal point,” says Vander Hyde.
Building a DIY mantel is a great starter project for any skill level, thanks to a wide variety of easily accessible DIY tutorials.
Applying Tile or Stone Veneer
Veneer offers a high-end look without extensive demolition.
“Thin stone or tile veneers can be applied over existing surfaces to create a premium look,” notes Vander Hyde.
If the surface is smooth and clean, Danny Niemela, Licensed Contractor and Vice President and CFO at ArDan Construction, suggests peel-and-stick options that adhere directly. For uneven brick or surfaces with jagged edges, apply a thin layer of cement board or mortar to create a smooth canvas. This process typically takes around two hours and costs approximately $100 in materials. Adding tile, grout, and a new mantel can complete the transformation over a weekend.
Installing a Fireplace Insert
For non-operational fireplaces, consider adding an electric or gas insert. These inserts provide heat and a realistic flame effect, requiring no demolition or construction.
Hardware and Accessory Updates
Replacing simple elements like screens, grates, and fireplace tools can significantly refresh the fireplace’s look without any demolition or painting.
Build-ins and Shelves for a Modern Look
Instead of focusing solely on the fireplace itself, consider changing the surrounding visual context of the room. Adding wallpaper, painting the walls, or building shelves and cabinets can dramatically change the room’s entire look.
“Framing the fireplace with built-ins or shelving can modernize the room and draw attention away from outdated features,” Vander Hyde adds.
Revitalizing a Non-Functional Fireplace
Many fireplaces no longer function, often due to material degradation or lack of maintenance. However, you can still refresh their appearance.
- Decorative Logs: Both Vander Hyde and Niemela recommend adding decorative logs to the firebox for a quick and easy visual upgrade.
- LED Inserts: LED inserts are a modern option that mimics a real flame. Niemela specifically suggests LED uplighting within the firebox or beneath the mantel.
- Candles: Even a simple arrangement of candles inside the firebox or on the hearth can dress up an outdated fireplace.
Ultimately, updating your fireplace doesn’t require a costly or disruptive demolition. By focusing on accessible upgrades, you can easily transform the focal point of any room.
These simple strategies offer an accessible way to revitalize your fireplace, adding warmth and style to your space without major renovations
