Genetically, humans tend to have varying preferences in almost every aspect of life, which includes color, furniture arrangement, and an endless list of other things. Simply put by a roman poet, Lucretius, “what is food to one, is to others bitter poison.” Different factors influence what we like and do not like. However, we are not in a psychology class; hence we will not dive deep into the science behind that.
Having said that, we all have preferences in terms of color. And, since most electric fireplaces come in dull plain colors, our preference kicks in and brings about the question, can you paint an electric fireplace?
For that reason, we have prepared a guide that clearly explains the possibility of painting an electric fireplace. Furthermore, we have included a guide on color options and what they convey.
So can you paint an electric fireplace?
Electric fireplaces are very flexible in terms of placement. That allows them to be used to direct the design path taken to decorate a space. But can you make an electric fireplace match your existing design by painting it?
Technically, Yes, but here is the key point. The electric fireplace unit in itself cannot be painted, instead, the furniture which an electric fireplace is built into, such as a TV stand and mantel, is paintable depending on its material. That means only specific electric fireplaces can be “painted”. We will discuss them next.
Electric fireplaces that can be painted include the following:
- Electric fireplaces with a mantel
- Electric fireplace TV stand units
- Electric fireplace insert with a surround
Electric fireplace with a mantel
A fireplace mantel also known as a mantelpiece, is a hood that extends over a fire grate. Initially, it was meant to catch the smoke from a fireplace and redirect it to the chimney. In recent times it is installed against a wall where an electric fireplace is installed for aesthetic appeal; to make an electric fireplace look like a traditional open fireplace.
In this case, you can mask the electric fireplace and paint the mantel a different color.
Electric fireplace TV stand unit
An electric fireplace TV stand is an appliance that integrates a TV stand and an electric fireplace into one unit. Similar to an electric fireplace with a mantel, you will not paint the electric fireplace on the TV stand. However, you are able to change the color of the TV stand depending on its material.
Electric fireplace insert with a surround
Electric fireplace inserts are units designed to fit within existing fireplaces, to convert them to electric fireplaces. Electric fireplace inserts are designed to fit perfectly within the opening of an existing fireplace. However, this is not always the case, and when an electric fireplace insert does not fit fully a surround is used to fill the gap between the unit and the edge of the fireplace.
In this case, as well, you will not be able to paint the electric fireplace insert. Instead, you are able to paint the surround.
How to paint a mantel/surround
Painting an existing electric fireplace surround or mantel is straightforward, and you can do it as a DIY project, provided you have a guide. That said, here are the steps you should follow to paint your electric fireplace mantel or surround:
Step 1 Clean your mantel or surround
The first step involves removing any dirt on the surface of the surround that can cause paint adhesion problems, using a paint prep cleaner.
Step 2 Sand the surface
After removing any dirt or residue on the surface of the electric fireplace mantel or surround you should sand the surface. That is because sandpaper creates microscopic slots on the wood’s surface which allow the primer to bond to the wood strongly. However, when sanding, be careful not to damage the wood but just sand enough to give the varnished surface some grip.
Step 3 Caulk and patch
Proceed to fill gaps with a paintable caulk to ensure you have an even surface. In addition, in case there are holes or damaged wood patch the holes with a wood filler and leave it to dry.
Step 4 Priming and painting
Now, wipe off any particles and dust from the surface, and then apply the primer (undercoat) and finish with your desired paint color. We advise you apply to coats of primer and to coats of paint to ensure you get a clean finish. In addition, lightly sand the surface between each coat of primer for durability.
How to paint a TV stand
Similar to painting a fireplace surround or mantel you can paint your electric fireplace without hiring a professional. Here is how to go about it:
Step 1 prepare the electric fireplace stand for painting
This step mainly involves two things. First, remove removable parts such as hardware and doors. When removing doors ensure you place hinges and screws for different doors in different bags to ensure you have an easy time when re-installing them.
Secondly, cover the electric fireplace in the unit to ensure it is not damaged by paint. A simple trick is covering it with multiple layers of newspaper and securing the edge with masking tape.
Step 2 clean the surface
Next, get rid of dirt and dust on the electric fireplace TV stand and doors using a damp cloth and let it dry to prevent bubbles when you paint.
Step 3 sanding
After cleaning the surface, sand it slightly to ensure the paint adheres to the surface
Step 4 paint
Now, proceed to apply the paint on the electric fireplace TV stand and doors. Let it dry, and apply another coat to give you a nice durable finish resistant to chipping and fading.
Step 5 waxing
Apply wax on the surface and buff any excess with a cloth
Step 6 reattach doors
Finally, reattach the doors and hardware to the electric fireplace TV stand and you are done
What are the best colors for an electric fireplace?
Most units come in plain dull colors, luckily, you can alter the color of the furniture around an electric fireplace to match your design or decor. We will take you through different color options and what they convey to help you identify the most suitable one for your home.
- Black
You can never go wrong with the color black.
Although black is not the go-to for many people since it is often associated with negativity, darkness, and depression. It is a home décor match made in heaven. It is a classic, mysterious and luxurious color. It symbolizes power, elegance, and status.
The color black is often seen as a gloomy color, however, it showcases high-end texture and helps bring out shapes and other colors around it, such as that of your fireplace. Furthermore, black matches various colors, it never goes out of style and adds a nice contrast if you have lighter-colored accessories near the electric fireplace.
- Grey
Grey is among the most versatile colors. Generally, it brings out the homeliness of materials and adds softness and coziness to any design. It represents neutrality and balance since it is neither white nor black. If your electric fireplace comes in a neutral color painting its surrounding features would complement it perfectly.
- Blue
Another impressive color is blue.
It represents the sky and the sea hence it implies a sense of connection with nature. As a color, it is often associated with open spaces, imagination, reliability, freedom, and confidence making it an amazing pick for your electric fireplace’s surrounding furniture. Furthermore, you are safe going for the color blue since you are assured it is never going out of style. It works with a large number of colors as well, including contrasting ones such as yellow and orange, and complementary ones such as silver and gray.
- Beige
Its name comes from French, meaning natural wool that has not been bleached or dyed. And from its name, it is clear what beige is all about. It is just calm and neutral. It symbolizes comfort, trust, and simplicity. Generally, it brings out a relaxing environment
It is so versatile in that it pairs with many colors to form an exciting accent. What makes it amazing is that it is neutral but not as stark as white or as plain as cream
- White
We saved the best for last.
Classic but still current, the color white offers so much. It is not only a plain canvas to build on but also conveys wholeness and spaciousness. It lightens and brightens any space, hence, if your electric fireplace is of a darker shade, painting the surrounding furniture white is sort of a no-brainer.
Conclusion
If you feel like changing the color of your electric fireplace you do not need to hire a professional. Follow the steps provided in this guide and you will have a “new-look” electric fireplace
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I wait to use my electric fireplace after painting it?
You should wait for the paint to dry up completely before using the electric fireplace. Usually, this takes approximately 24 hours.
When should I paint with a brush and when should I use a roller?
Both a brush and a roller come in handy. Ideally, use a brush to apply the primer and to paint hard-to-reach areas and tight corners, and a roller to paint flat surfaces.
What paint should I use when painting an electric fireplace?
Acrylic latex is our go-to option, since, it provides good coverage and dries up fast without bumps.
Alternatively, use chalkboard paint. However, when using chalkboard paint ensure there are no bubbles in between coats and apply a minimum of three coats to ensure you get a glossy finish.
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