Hey folks, Hank here! If you’ve got a stone fireplace that’s looking a little dingy or dated, whitewashing it can give it a fresh new look. As a woodworker and DIYer, I always look for ways to spruce things around the house without breaking the bank. So, if you’re considering giving your fireplace an inexpensive makeover, you’ve come to the right place.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to whitewash a stone fireplace like a pro. We’ll talk about:
- What whitewashing is
- The benefits of whitewashing your stone fireplace
- How to prep your fireplace before starting
- Picking the suitable whitewash materials
- A step-by-step guide to applying the whitewash
- Troubleshooting any issues that come up
- Caring for your whitewashed fireplace over time
And, of course, I’ll share some of my best tips and tricks. Whitewashing might sound intimidating, but have no fear – with my guidance, you can quickly give your fireplace a stunning new look!
Contents
Understanding Whitewashing for Stone
Before we dive in, let’s quickly go over what whitewashing means when it comes to stone.
Whitewashing stone is applying a thin coating of paint or limewash to give the stone a uniform white or pale color. It helps hide imperfections, gives a brightened effect, and generally spruces the look of the stone.
Historically, whitewashing was used for practical purposes – to help sanitize and protect surfaces. These days, it’s more of an aesthetic choice. It remains famous for giving fireplaces, brick walls, and other stone elements a refreshed appearance.
The terms whitewash and limewash are sometimes used interchangeably. Traditionally, limewash referred to a coating made explicitly from lime putty. But latex paint whitewash is more common these days since it’s easier to use.
Either way, whitewashing a stone fireplace is an inexpensive way to update the look of your space. It allows you to give new life to an outdated fireplace without a complete renovation. Let’s look at some of the benefits:
Why Whitewash Your Stone Fireplace?
Here are some of the reasons you might want to consider whitewashing your dated stone fireplace:
Lighten Up a Dark Space
Whitewashing can instantly brighten up the whole area if your fireplace is made from dark stone. It reflects more light, making the surrounding space more open and airy. It can make a dramatic difference in a dark, cave-like living room.
Enhance the Stone’s Natural Texture
Whitewashing also allows the underlying texture of the stone to show through. Depending on the opacity of the whitewash, it can give a subtle aged effect while muting any discolorations. This works excellently on more textured, rustic styles of stone.
Customize the Color Scheme
Have you got a new color palette in mind for your living room? Whitewashing lets you customize the tone of your fireplace to complement your decor. Go crisp and clean with white, or pick a pale gray or neutral beige.
Budget-Friendly Facelift
Whitewashing is downright cheap compared to a total fireplace remodel or replacing the stone entirely. You can give your fireplace a new look for less than $50 with some materials and elbow grease.
DIY-Friendly
This is a project for the DIYer. Whitewashing is relatively straightforward if you prep correctly and follow the steps. No advanced painting skills are required! This makes it the perfect weekend project to give your space a mini makeover.
Prepping Your Fireplace for Whitewashing
Before laying down that first coat of whitewash, your fireplace needs some TLC. Here’s how to get it ready:
Supplies You’ll Need
Gather these supplies before getting started:
- Wire scrub brush
- Soft-bristle hand brush
- Tarp or drop cloth
- Cleaning solutions (see options below)
- Paper towels or rags
- Sandpaper (optional)
- TSP substitute (optional)
- Masking tape (optional)
Safety Gear
Make sure to take safety precautions:
- Work gloves
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask
- Old clothes that can get messy
Clean the Stone
Start by giving the fireplace a deep clean. This removes soot, creosote, and other gunk that could cause adhesion issues.
- Use a wire brush to scrub away debris between stones.
- Follow up with a hand brush and cleaning solution. Good options include:
- Hot, soapy water
- Diluted white vinegar
- Store-bought stone cleaner
- Rinse thoroughly and let dry completely.
Improve Adhesion (Optional)
If you’re concerned about the whitewash adhering to the stone, you can take a couple of extra steps:
- Lightly sand the stone to roughen up the surface.
- Apply TSP substitute cleaner. This helps remove oils and residues.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Mask Off Areas (Optional)
If there are any surfaces you want to protect from whitewash splatter, cover them with masking tape and plastic. For example, you may want to mask off:
- The mantel
- Hearth
- Surrounding walls or wood trim
- Adjoining carpet or floors
Okay, now your fireplace should be squeaky clean and ready for whitewashing! Let’s look at choosing the suitable materials.
Pick Your Whitewash Solution
You’ve got options regarding the type of whitewash to use. Here’s how to choose:
Limewash
Traditional limewash is made from limestone or quicklime mixed with water and sometimes chalk or sand.
Pros:
- Natural material breathes well on stone
- Long-lasting
- Can be tinted
Cons:
- More difficult to apply evenly
- Requires multiple coats
- Can be pricey
Latex Paint
Latex paint is mixed with water at a 1:4 ratio to thin it out for whitewashing.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to apply
- Dries fast
- Wide range of colors
Cons:
- Not as breathable as limewash
- Requires primer on some stones
My recommendation: Latex paint whitewash is the easiest choice for DIYers. Use an interior paint with primer and choose a flat sheen. Opt for white or light gray.
Mixing the Whitewash
For latex paint whitewash:
- Start with 1 part paint to 4 parts water
- Adjust the ratio to reach the desired consistency
- Thin consistency = more transparent
- Thick consistency = more opaque
Test your mix on cardboard or an inconspicuous spot to get it right before applying.
How to Whitewash Stone Step-By-Step
Now, we’re ready to get down to business! Follow these steps to whitewash your stone fireplace like a pro:
Step 1 – Apply Base Coat
Use a high-quality brush to apply the first thin coat of whitewash. Work top to bottom.
- Dip brush in whitewash, then wipe off excess on the rim of the can. You want it damp but not dripping.
- Apply the paint using long, even, overlapping strokes.
- Work from top to bottom, doing one stone section at a time.
Step 2 – Let First Coat Dry
Give the first coat 2-4 hours to dry before moving on. Drying time depends on:
- Temperature/humidity
- Air circulation
- Thickness of the whitewash layer
Once dry, it should look streaky and uneven. No worries, this is expected!
Step 3 – Apply Second Coat
Follow the same process to apply a second coat of whitewash over the first coat.
- Use a fresh, clean brush.
- Work top to bottom again.
- Allow the paint to overlap edges for an even look.
- Two coats are usually sufficient, but add a third to get your desired opacity.
Step 4 – Allow the Final Coat to Dry
Give the final coat at least 24 hours to fully dry and cure before using the fireplace.
Avoiding Common Whitewashing Mistakes
It may take some trial and error to get the results you want. Here are some tips to avoid potential pitfalls:
Prevent Drips and Runs
If your whitewash is too drippy, it can leave unsightly streaks.
- Don’t overload the brush with paint
- Wipe excess off on the rim of the can
- Keep your brush strokes smooth and even
Handle Absorbency Differences
Some stones are more porous than others. This can lead to uneven absorption.
- Priming first helps balance out absorbency
- Adjust thinning ratio – less water for porous stone
Watch for Brush Strokes
Visible brush strokes from improper technique can give a splotchy look.
- Always work top to bottom
- Use long, smooth, overlapping strokes
- Work one small section at a time
With some practice and patience, you can get a beautifully soft finish.
Caring for Your Whitewashed Fireplace
A whitewashed fireplace requires a bit of maintenance to keep it looking fresh. Here are some tips:
Clean Gently and Frequently
Regular gentle cleaning keeps dirt from building up and becoming embedded.
- Dust with a soft brush weekly.
- Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down monthly.
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
Touch Up Whitewash as Needed
High-traffic areas may need more frequent touch-ups.
- Watch for signs of wear, dirt buildup, and smoke stains.
- As needed, spot apply fresh whitewash just to problem areas.
Refresh the Whitewash Annually
To maintain a uniform appearance, periodically give the whole fireplace a fresh coat.
- Lightly clean the surface first.
- Apply 1-2 thin coats as needed.
DIY Whitewashing – Final Thoughts
This gives you a better idea of what whitewashing entails and how to use it to deliver your dated stone fireplace an inexpensive facelift!
While it takes some physical work, it’s a relatively straightforward process. With the suitable materials and techniques, you can give your fireplace a fresh new look on a budget.
If you tackle a whitewashing project on your fireplace, let me know how it turns out! I’d love to see photos of your transformation. Nothing’s more satisfying than stepping back to admire your handiwork.
And if you have any other questions about prepping, whitewashing techniques, or maintenance, don’t hesitate to drop me a line. I’m always happy to help fellow DIYers take their projects to the next level.
