There are so many ways to improve the look of your fireplace. One of the cheapest, easiest, and most effective methods is by painting it. However, not every type of paint will get the job done. You will need to get a type of paint that can withstand the high heat of your fireplace.
What are the best high heat paints for fireplaces? The right paint should be able to withstand a temperature of at least 1,000°F. Masonry paint or enamel paint will be best suited for the job, but you can get other heat-resistant paints that can work well too.
In this article, let’s take a look at some types of high heat paints and how you can safely and effectively use them to paint your fireplace.
Why Use Temperature-Resistant Paint For Fireplace?
Getting the proper heat-resistant paint is one of the first steps to making sure that your fireplace will look great and the paint job will stay fresh after some use.
You should know that when you have a fire in your fireplace, the temperature ranges from 700-1,000°F.
If your paint isn’t designed to withstand that temperature, the paint job will soon blister and flake off, which is not a great look, not to mention a safety hazard because the wrong type of paint will emit toxic fumes when it burns.
Conventional water-based paints, like latex and acrylic paints, are not designed to withstand high heat, and the paint job can quickly become damaged if they’re exposed to high temperatures.
Oil-based paints, if they are not labeled ‘heat-resistant,’ are also not suitable to use on your fireplace because they are often very flammable and can become a potential safety hazard when exposed to open flames.
So, what kind of paint should you use if you want to paint your fireplace? Fortunately, there are a few types of paint that are designed for this very job. Let’s take a look at some types of heat-resistant paints below.
What Is Heat-Resistant Paint?
Heat resistant paint is a type of paint that can withstand very high heat, which means that it can be used on fireplaces, stovetops, grills, and other areas that get extremely hot. The paint will not release toxic fumes when it is exposed to high heat, which is also a huge plus.
When we mention heat resistant paint, there are actually a few types of paint that can fit under this category:
- High-temperature coatings are glossy (transparent or opaque) protective coatings that you can apply over metal or ceramic surfaces.
- Silicone coatings are also known for heat resistance and are suitable for various materials.
- Masonry paint is great to use on all types of surfaces, and it’s suitable for outdoor areas that get extremely hot. However, you should know that this type of paint will not be able to withstand open flames, so it’s only suitable for the outside of the firebox.
- Enamel coatings or enamel paint is a ceramic coating that is also able to withstand very high temperatures. This type of paint is known for its glassy, ceramic-like finish.
You can find these types of paint with both a spray-on and a brush-on application. Spray paints are quick and easy to apply, while liquid paint allows you to apply with precision for a more even coverage. You can also find high-heat paints in various colors and finishes.
The key characteristic of high heat paint is that it is temperature resistant. When you buy high-heat paint, look for a temperature range on the label of the paint. The label usually indicates that the paint can withstand heat up to ‘X°F.’
There are many types of high heat paints, and they have a different maximum temperatures that they can withstand. The temperature in your fireplace will reach around 700-1,000°F, so you will need paint that can withstand at least 1,000°F.
When you use the wrong type of paint on your fireplace, the result will be almost immediate. When exposed to high heat, the paint job will start to bubble, blister, and peel. You’ll also likely smell toxic fumes when the paint job is exposed to fire.
High heat paint’s heat-resistant properties will look great even after you use your fireplace for years, and it can also act as a protective coating for the fireplace’s brick or metal surface so that they can be more durable.
When buying heat-resistant paint, make sure to check whether the paint is suitable to use with the material of your fireplace (stone, concrete, brick, or metal). Most heat-resistant paints are recommended to use with metal or bricks, so you should check the label to make sure.
Depending on the type of material that you have, you may want to opt for extra protective features for the paint. For example, metal paints are usually formulated to be rust-resistant as well as heat-resistant.
These added features will ensure that your fireplace can withstand the high heat as well as other natural corrosion, like oxidation. If the paint doesn’t offer these protections, it is worthwhile to add another protective coating for your fireplace to ensure that the paint job will last.
How To Use Heat-Resistant Paint
Like every type of paint, heat-resistant paint would only work when it is applied on a clean surface. That means you will need to clean off any dirt, dust, or grease on the surface before painting.
Similarly, any old paint jobs that have flaked off will need to be sanded down or stripped before you want to apply a new coat of paint. The paint won’t be able to disguise texture, so you’ll want the surface to be as smooth as possible before painting.
In the case of metal fireboxes, you should check if the metal surface has rusted, as the paint won’t stick properly to the rusted surface, and you’ll see a lot of unpleasant textures after painting.
Rust can be removed using sandblasting, or you can use coarse sandpaper and some elbow grease to remove the rust. After that, you can use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface.
You should also check whether the paint is recommended with a primer and that the primer is also heat-resistant for maximum protection. Non-porous surfaces like metal, for example, will usually need a coat of primer before the paint can properly stick to them.
It’s recommended that you apply at least two coats of paint to see a nice and even finish, as well as achieve the right coverage to protect your fireplace. After painting the desired color, you can also add a heat-resistant protective coating over the paint to add shine and enhance the protection.
Safety Tips For Painting Fireplaces
When it comes to painting a fireplace, there are a few important tips you need to know that will keep you safe.
1. Extinguish The Fire And Let It Cool Down Completely
Be sure the fire is completely extinguished, and let the fireplace cool down completely. You’ll want to wait at least 24 hours for the fireplace to cool down before starting your project. Also, be sure to check the walls for any hot spots if you have a wood-burning fireplace.
This is because most heat-resistant paints are highly flammable, so you’ll want all embers and fire to be completely extinguished before you paint. This safety tip is especially important if you are using spray paint since it can be difficult to control where the paint will spray.
2. Open Up The Area And Ventilate It Well
Open up the area and ventilate it well when painting with heat-protective paints. Most heat-resistant paints contain a lot of VOCs that can be harmful to your health, so you’ll always want to work in a well-ventilated area to minimize some of these effects.
This means opening up all your windows and turning on your fan to let some of the fumes escape. If possible, set up an exhaust fan outside so that fresh air can enter through an open window, so the room is always well-ventilated.
3. Wear Protective Gear
On the same note, it’s always a good idea to wear a respirator mask to avoid inhaling any of the toxic fumes that the paint will emit. If you inhale too much of the paint fumes, you may feel light-headed, and repeated exposure can even harm your lungs.
4. Keep Paint Away From Children And Pets
Heat-resistant paints are toxic when consumed, so you should always keep your paint cans out of the reach of children and pets. When painting, it’s best to seal off the area to keep children and pets from coming into the room.
If your child or pet accidentally consumes the paint, do not force them to throw up. It’s best to call poison control in this case and visit the emergency room.
5. Let The Paint Cure Completely Before Using Your Fireplace
After painting, you should wait until the paint is completely dry, at least 24 hours, before using your fireplace. If you turn on the flames before the paint is completely dry, the paint can emit toxic fumes, which are very harmful to your health, not to mention the paint job may be ruined.
In any case, it is not recommended to paint the inside of your fireplace. Although heat-resistant paint is highly durable, it’s not going to be strong enough for open flames even after curing, and you’ll risk the toxic fumes that can happen when the paint is exposed to open flames.
Best High Heat Paints For Fireplaces
What are the best high heat paints for fireplaces? You should look for a type of paint that’s clearly labeled ‘heat-resistant’ paint that can withstand at least 1,000°F. Below are some of the best options.
| Rank | Product | Temperature Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Rust-Oleum Heat Protective Enamel Paint | Up to 1,000°F |
| 2. | POR-15 High-Temperature Paint | Up to 1,200°F |
| 3. | Krylon High Heat Spray Paint | Up to 1,200°F intermittent, 600°F constant |
| 4. | Rutland Products 80 Hi-Temp Paint | Up to 1,200°F |
| 5. | Rutland Products Brush-On Flat Stove Paint | Up to 1,200°F |
| 6. | KBS Coatings Pure White Xtreme Temperature Coating | Up to 1,500°F |
| 7. | Eastwood Durable Matte Silver Finish Heat Resistant Paint | Up to 1,500°F |
| 8. | Stove Bright High Temp Spray Paint | Up to 1,200°F |
| 9. | SandHill Stove Bright 1200 Degree Paint | Up to 1200°F |
| 10. | AW Perkins Black Stove Paint | Up to 1,400°F |
| 11. | Giani Brick Transformations Whitewash Paint for Brick and Fireplaces | For outer brick |
1. Rust-Oleum Heat Protective Enamel Paint
The Rust-Oleum Heat Resistant Enamel Paint is an excellent option if you are looking to refresh a metal firebox. This is an oil-based formula designed to renew and protect metal surfaces that are subject to heat up to 1,000°F.
If you want to freshen up and protect a rusty firebox, this paint is perfect for the job.
It produces a rich satin finish that prevents rust, corrosion, and chipping while retaining excellent color retention after repeated heating. This durable finish is long-lasting, fast-drying, and super heat-resistant.
If you want to apply this paint on an old metal surface to prevent rust and corrosion, you’ll first need to clean the surface and sand down the existing rust first.
After painting, this heat-resistant paint will dry in two to four hours, and it’s ready for use after 24 hours!
2. POR-15 High-Temperature Paint
For durability and resistance to high temperatures, nothing beats this high-temperature paint. This coating is ideal for any type of metal surface that frequently encounters extreme heat, such as fireplaces and grills.
Safe for use on clean metal surfaces, the paint can withstand extreme temperatures up to 1,200°F and is able to resist cracking, chipping and peeling even after exposure to high heat.
Once applied, this heat-resistant paint will cure completely after 24 hours and will last for years and years. It’s an easy way to ensure that your fireplace stays in tip-top shape for years to come.
3. Krylon High Heat Spray Paint
Krylon High Heat Max is a premium-quality, heat-resistant coating that offers protection against rust and excellent color retention.
This durable coating is formulated to withstand temperatures up to 1,200°F intermittently and 600°F continuously. Thanks to the spray-on application, you can easily apply a smokeless, odorless barrier that resists chipping and discoloration.
This high-quality spray paint comes in a variety of colors with a heat-resistant formula that is suitable for use on metal surfaces such as metal fireboxes, radiators, and grills.
This durable paint can also protect against rust formation on metal materials. With the ability to dry tack-free in 15 minutes or less and an easy-to-apply aerosol spray can application process, you’ll have your project looking freshly painted and ready to use in a flash.
4. Rutland Products 80 Hi-Temp Paint
Rutland’s Hi-Temp Paint is the ideal solution for touching up or reconditioning fireplaces and appliances.
Durable and high-heat resistant, this Hi-Temp Spray Paint withstands up to 1,200°F and can be used on various metals as well as brick. The paint gives a durable protective finish that won’t burn off even after repeated exposure to high heat.
The high gloss finish glistens under light to provide a look similar to cast iron. This paint is super easy to apply, thanks to the spray-on application. The smooth flow of paint makes it easy to apply a professional-looking finish on any metal or brick surface.
The best part is that you don’t need a primer to achieve a good level of protection for your fireplace. You can spray it directly on a clean and smooth surface to expect a great result.
5. Rutland Products Brush-On Flat Stove Paint
This brush-on heat-resistant paint is a similar formula to the one above, but it is in liquid form for better control of the application.
Rutland Brush-On Paint is a high-temperature paint that can be used on metal and brick fireplaces.
This is durable paint that withstands temperatures up to 1200°F. It adheres to steel, cast iron, aluminum, brick, and most other metals.
The satin finish resists rust, corrosion, chipping, and peeling to keep your fire looking new. In addition, it also adds a durable protective finish that helps retain heat in wood-burning stoves and fireplaces.
This paint is also is easy to apply with no primer needed. It features a brush-on application for better control. This paint is ideal for restoring the look of older fireplaces and covering scratches while protecting your fireplace against further damage from the high heat.
6. KBS Coatings Pure White Xtreme Temperature Coating
KBS’s Xtreme Temperature Coating is a high temperature/heat-resistant coating formulated specifically to protect metal fireplaces against temperatures of up to 1,500°F, which is quite impressive for a heat-resistant formula.
This high heat coating is a lovely brush-on application that can protect against high temperature as well as scratches and corrosion. Even after repeated exposure to high heat, this coating can still perform well and will not peel or flake off the surface.
If you want to use this coating on a non-porous surface like metal, it’s recommended to use a heat-resistant primer to allow the protective coating to adhere properly to the surface to provide a good level of protection for your fireplace.
7. Eastwood Durable Matte Silver Finish Heat Resistant Paint
This High Heat Paint is an easy way to transform metal surfaces and objects exposed to high temperatures in & around the home.
The durable satin finish resists up to 1,500°F heat and provides a brilliant matte silver sheen that enhances the appearance of your fireplace and stovetop with just a few brushes.
The durable, long-lasting protective coat won’t flake off with continued use. It’s the best product for painting the metal details of your fireplace as well as other areas that are exposed to high heat in your home.
8. Stove Bright High Temp Spray Paint
Stove Bright Color is the perfect way to touch up or re-do your metal fireplace. This durable high-temperature paint is able to withstand temperatures up to 1,200°F.
A spray application is a perfect way to quickly and easily add a new coat of color to any fireplace. If you have a gas or wood-burning fireplace that has seen better days, help breathe new life into it with this spray paint.
The finish is a heat-resistant, durable matte finish that will add style as well as protection to your fireplace. And with numerous colors available, the design possibilities are limitless.
9. SandHill Stove Bright 1200 Degree Paint
The SandHIll Stove Bright Satin Black Brush for Fireplaces has a paint that is formulated to withstand up to 1,200°F.
The paint provides a durable protective coating that’s not only resistant to heat but also scratching, marring, and peeling. This is an excellent formula that can provide a high level of protection to keep your fireplace looking new and polished.
Even better, this heat-resistant paint is easy to apply with a brush-on application; this durable coating will maintain its durable finish for many years of enjoyment.
10. AW Perkins Black Stove Paint
The AW Perkins Heat Resistant Paint provides excellent coverage and protection for all of your fireplace surfaces.
You can safely restore your cast iron and steel fireplaces to their original beauty with this superior, rust-resistant paint. This formula can provide heat protection up to 1,400°F, but it does much more than that.
This low-VOC formula is safe and easy to apply, and the result is a protective coat that won’t rust or peel even after repeated use.
For a statement such as a fireplace, you’ll want paint that can really last, so this is a great option if you want a sleek, matte black finish that will stay for a long time.
11. Giani Brick Transformations Whitewash Paint for Brick and Fireplaces
For those looking for a non-toxic, low VOC formula, this whitewash paint is the perfect option to modernize a brick fireplace.
The Giani Brick Transformations Whitewash paint creates a beautiful whitewash finish that can transform an outdated fireplace into a beautiful statement piece. The whitewash gives the surface an easy-to-maintain matte finish that blends seamlessly into any decor.
The water-based acrylic paint is safe, low on odor, and has low VOCs (volatile organic compounds) so that you can safely use it in households with children or pets.
Keep in mind that although this is paint for fireplaces, it’s not heat-resistant, so it should only be used for exterior areas that are not directly exposed to flame or heat.
However, for areas around the fireplace, this is a great option to add a beautiful accent to highlight the statement in the room.
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