My partner and I just moved into a new place, and we've discovered that a previous owner painted over the fireplace in a really unappealing gray tar color. Is there any way to safely remove the paint and reveal the original brick? Will any type of paint stripper work for this? I feel like the answer might just be 'you can't', but I wanted to see if anyone has advice or solutions.
3 Answers
Removing paint from brick is definitely doable, but it's going to take a lot of work. The type of paint matters, so you should consider using a textured paint stripper that's safe for indoor use. Remember to have proper ventilation while you work; some strippers can be really toxic. Just brace yourself for a bit of sweat and be ready for the mess! Good luck!
Don't forget steam cleaning! Some people have had success using a steam cleaner to loosen the paint before doing the scrubbing. It might be worth a try, especially if you want to avoid harsh chemicals.
You might need a combination of a good paint stripper and some physical labor with wire brushes. It's not a quick job, and it can get very messy! If you're feeling overwhelmed, hiring a pro can be a good option too — it could cost between $1200 and $1800. Alternatively, if the paint removal gets too tricky, covering the painted brick with cement board and retiling might also work well for a fresh look!
Yeah, I second that! Remember, it'll take a lot of time and effort no matter what. Just stay positive—it'll be worth it when you see those bricks again!