How can I re-vamp my Fireplace??

PK&PJ

I have a 1970's fireplace (tiled all over) which if I was to remove would cost a fortune as the fire would need taking out etc. etc. I have painted it, which was not too bad, only the paint keeps chipping. Does anybody have any ideas of where I might find a) a web site for DIY ideas, or b) how to stop the paint chipping, and what paint should I have used???

Hoping some moneysaver can help me.

raymond

It wouldnt cost as much as you might think if you do everything except disconnect/reconnect the (gas?) fire yourself. Check out the backpanels and surrpunds available from B&Q and a simple enough job for a competent DIY'er

The easiest thing could be to put new tiles on top of the old ones after keying them.

The paint you used could be the wrong type, or preparation was wrong. They definately need to be etched or keyed prior to anything.

dandoozle

Personally, i would remove tiles, take back to the bare brick. After that u should use mortar cleaner to clean bricks etc, and coat with solvent based varnish, thinned back to a wash....then overcoat with normal varnish

coolagarry

Any way that you could cover it with a wooden frame that could be removed when 70's fireplaces become fashionable again??

Doozergirl

We did a 1930's fireplace with an enamel spray paint and then used a grout pen to make it look more authentic. Worked a treat and didn't chip!

You might have to scrape of the current layer first, if it's no good.

recovering_spendaholic

I saw a DIY makeover programme where they painted over the tiled fireplace with off white emulsion mixed with sand and it made it look like a fashionable stone fireplace. I think you can now buy a textured paint which gives this finish in B&Q. The fireplace they did looked fab when they had finished!!