Sand the entire mantel with medium-grit sandpaper followed by fine-grit paper until it is smooth and free of imperfections. Sand with the grain of the wood. Fill cracks and holes with wood filler that matches the color of your stain. Wipe the surface clean with a tack cloth.
What is the best finish for a fireplace mantel?
Opt for an acrylic finish for fireplace mantels, as it is nonflammable and easier to work with. If your mantel already has dirt and soot on it that can’t be cleaned off, first use a
How do you restore a fireplace mantel?
- Step 1: Prep for Fireplace Restoration. The first step is to prepare the work area. …
- Step 2: Repair Veneer (Optional) …
- Step 3: Remove Old Finish. …
- Step 4: Prep Mantel Surface for Finishing. …
- Step 5: Refinish Mantel. …
- Step 6: Clean Up.
What kind of stain do you use on a fireplace mantel?
A fine-bristle brush made for wood stain is the best choice, but most stains are wiped at some point; an expensive brush isn’t mandatory. If you leave stain on the wood for too long, it will begin to dry and become difficult to wipe off.
How do you strip a mantle?
A fine-bristle brush made for wood stain is the best choice, but most stains are wiped at some point; an expensive brush isn’t mandatory. If you leave stain on the wood for too long, it will begin to dry and become difficult to wipe off.
How do you refurbish a mantle?
Sand the entire mantel with medium-grit sandpaper followed by fine-grit paper until it is smooth and free of imperfections. Sand with the grain of the wood. Fill cracks and holes with wood filler that matches the color of your stain. Wipe the surface clean with a tack cloth. You may also read, How do you refinish a mulch bed?
Should I polyurethane my mantel?
Three coats of polyurethane should be adequate for your mantel because this surface is not likely to receive a great deal of wear. If a thicker coat is desired, apply a fourth coat of polyurethane to the wood. Check the answer of How do you refinish weathered wood?
Is Pine a good wood for a mantle?
The mantel doesn’t have to match the room precisely, but it should complement the space. Light-colored woods are suitable in rooms with light walls and light accents. Pine is a light-colored wood that lends itself well to several decor styles. Red and white pine both work well, and both lighten slightly over time.
Can you use chalk paint on a fireplace mantel?
The paint can be thinned with water or allowed to thicken by leaving the lid off overnight. This technique is very forgiving and easy to manipulate to get the look you want. Since chalk paint is water based, it’s not flammable. Chalk paint can be used on the hearth and fire surrounds which do not get very hot. Read: How do you reflect a promotion on a resume?
How do you clean soot from a mantle?
If you have soot on your panted mantel or hearth, you can quickly clean it using a dry cleaning sponge (such as Mr. Clean Magic Eraser). Just rub in circles until the soot disappears. For extra stubborn stains, use a small amount of all-purpose cleaner diluted with water on a microfiber cloth.
How do you remove an old mantel?
Place a pry bar along the side of the mantel and tap in place with the hammer if it is a full mantel. Begin at the top edge and pry the mantel off the side of the fireplace. Move the pry bar down the side length of the surround; tap the pry bar in place and pry the side piece off until you’ve removed the entire piece.
What color should I paint my fireplace mantel?
The general rule of thumb is for a fireplace mantel to be a neutral color. This ensures the mantel will blend with the room even if the colors are changed. Likewise, it keeps the mantel from standing out too much. If you want to paint your mantel, white and off white colors like ivory are generally a good choice.
Can you paint a wood fireplace mantel?
You can prep and paint a fireplace mantel the same way you would for stained cabinets, interior trim, or doors. The preparation and painting process is a lot easier for painted mantels.
What is the best color to paint a fireplace?
Neutrals are the safest color option when you’re painting your fireplace. Because they don’t lean cool or warm, the shades work with virtually any color scheme. Painting your fireplace a crisp white can help brighten a room, but you can opt for an off-white shade like cream or ivory if you want a softer look.
