How to update a 1970s stone fireplace?

How to update a 1970s stone fireplace?

It has been several weeks since we completed remodelling our basement for the One Room Challenge. We made many changes, but the one that I was most pleased with was the decision to replace the fireplace.

The stone fireplace transformation took place over several weeks. It was documented on my weekly ORC post. However, I decided to create one post to share fireplace design ideas and the steps involved in restoring a stone fireplace from 1970.

Ideas to Update a Fireplace

A fireplace is a wonderful addition to your home. It’s a wonderful experience to sit in front of your fireplace on a cold winter night with a cup in hand and a warm blanket on your lap. What if your fireplace is too big, outdated, or out of place in your home?

How can you modernize an old fireplace? How can you modernize a fireplace from 1970?

A fireplace makeover can be a cost-effective way to give your fireplace a new look. You can update a brick fireplace or a stone fireplace in many ways. Before you make any changes, be sure to verify the local fire codes.

These are some ways to make an old fireplace look new again.

Paint the brick or stone fireplace

This is an easy and affordable option you can do in an hour. It’s a great choice for fireplaces older than 50 that are still in good condition.

In 2021, a popular look was to paint the mortar between the stones or to paint the stone. This is a great option if you love the look of stone but would like to modernize it.

• Using the “German Schmear” technique, you can achieve a farmhouse appearance. This will allow your brick’s colour to shine, but it will be softened so that it doesn’t appear uniform and stark.
• You can also opt for opaque coverage. To add depth and interest, you can use diluted acrylic paint in multiple coats with different colours.
• To give an old fireplace a bold and modern look, you can use full coverage with a different paint colour. To create a focal point of high contrast, apply multiple coats of dark paint to brick, hearth and fireplace mantel.

Install a new mantel

You can also update your fireplace by removing the brick and replacing it with a mantel. You might be able create a completely new look if your brick or tile are in good condition.

A mantel can give you different looks. To add character and charm, you can choose a vintage salvaged mantel. A rustic look is achieved by a mantel made from a salvaged vintage beam.

Convert to a Gas Fireplace

Are you looking for a more modern look and less maintenance? You can transform your wood-burning fireplace into a gas fireplace, which will give it a modern look and heat up your space faster.

Gas fireplaces are more efficient than wood-burning counterparts, require less cleaning up, and are easier to use. There are many ways to look at, and various gas inserts that will give you the look you desire.

Retile the surround and the hearth

Retiling a fireplace takes a few days, but can make a big difference in the appearance of your fireplace. The method you use will depend on whether the old tile is being removed or the new tile is being placed directly on top.

Masonry veneers will give you the appearance of brick or real stone. These lightweight artificial stone products are great for updating your fireplace and keeping the warmth and texture that stone offers.