Cladding of a brick chimney with concrete

Website design By BotEap.comFireplaces can be the best part of a room’s decor, or they can be the worst. There’s nothing like an unappealing fireplace to make decorating a nightmare. One of the main faux pas styles of fireplace is the bright red brick fireplace. Not only is this style outdated, but it’s also very difficult to coordinate with other aspects of the room’s décor. Instead of bemoaning the fact that the fireplace isn’t all you want it to be, think outside the box. There are many different ways to cover up that unattractive brick finish and install something better. One of the best ways is to coat the brick with a concrete finish. Not only will it change the look of the fireplace, it will also change the look of the room.

Website design By BotEap.comConcrete?
When you think of concrete, the first thoughts that come to mind may not be more appealing to you than the bricks that are currently there. Take heart in the fact that concrete is now very different than it used to be. It is commonly used for kitchen and bathroom countertops and brings old, worn finishes to life. You can easily do the same thing with your worn brick fireplace.

Website design By BotEap.comFirst steps
Before you rush to the home improvement store to buy bags of instant concrete, take a few minutes to think about what you want your fireplace to look like. In most cases, it will just finish or cover the area that is already boarded up. If you plan to move beyond that area, you’ll need to prepare the area and make sure the concrete bonds to the surface. You need to decide if you want the fireplace to have an ornate or simple design. This will determine any prep work you need to do beforehand. It is also a good idea to think about the finish of the concrete. Determine if you want it colored, speckled with mica, or embellished with river rocks before the concrete fully sets. The additions you want to add will determine how long the project will take and what types of materials and tools you will need.

Website design By BotEap.comWhat
Once you’ve decided on all the details and have a firm picture in your mind, and possibly on your sketchpad, of what you want the fireplace to look like, it’s time to get started. Purchase some quick-setting concrete at your local home improvement store. Before mixing, make sure the brick surface is clean and ready for concrete. Spread it evenly and smoothly with a trowel. It may be easier to work in small sections, so the area doesn’t dry out before you have a chance to add your chosen embellishments. Once the concrete is applied, allow it to set and dry completely before lighting the next fire.

Website design By BotEap.comBy cladding your old brick fireplace, you add new depth to your room. A brilliant focal point is instantly created and you have the ability to blend it with any type of décor you desire. Even if your brick fireplace is extremely unattractive, you can still make it one of the most beautiful parts of your home by lining it with concrete.