13 Simple Ways To Update An Outdated Fireplace Before Winter Hits

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From old, dark brick that clashes with your decor to a barely-there mantel that blends into the background, plenty of issues with older fireplaces can make them look outdated. Maybe you're living in an older home that's stuck in the 80s, or you simply want a more modern, fresh look. Whatever the reason, an outdated fireplace can become an eyesore in your living space, and it's a missed opportunity to create a stunning architectural focal point. Winter is the time when you want to curl up in front of a cozy fireplace, not avoid it because it doesn't fit the vibe (or the current decade). Before the weather gets too cold, make a few easy changes to give it a fresh look.

Put down the sledgehammer — you don't have to completely tear down or remodel your fireplace to bring it up to today's design standards. Smaller changes often make a big difference for all types of fireplaces. First, assess where the fireplace goes wrong. Maybe the mantel is fine, but the brick is an outdated color that ruins the look. Or, maybe a new statement mantel fixes the problem. Another strategy is to minimize the look of the older fireplace with more appealing distractions nearby, like a framed design above the fireplace, bookshelves next to it, or a paint job that blends the fireplace in with the wall behind it. Whether you choose one of these tricks or do multiple, they'll give your fireplace a fresh look without hiring a professional or breaking too much of a sweat.

The mantel is the crowning accent of your fireplace, but it can also make your fireplace look tired or outdated. Over time, a wood mantel can show signs of wear, such as scratches, cracks, or chips. Sometimes, the mantel is still in good shape, but it might be one of the wood finishes that are dating your home. Or, it might be a little too traditional and ornate for your style. A simple way to update the mantel is to refinish it or update it in some way. And bringing the mantel into the current decade stylistically can draw attention away from other parts of the fireplace that are making it look older. 

Painting and staining are two easy, affordable options, but you can also add trim to dress up a plain mantel or cover it with another material to hide a complete eyesore. If painting is your preferred method, there's a color rule you'll want to consider when choosing paint for your fireplace mantel: go neutral, pick a color that contrasts with the wall color, or pick a bold color that matches the decor in the room. You may need to make minor repairs, like gluing down veneer that's peeling, before you remove the old finish and apply your new treatment. Applying appliques to the mantel adds texture and dimension, and you can attach them with silicone adhesive. To dress up a simple shelf-style mantel, add pilasters, corbels, or brackets underneath in a style that fits your room. You can also add different types of trim, like crown molding, for a more decorative look.

Is your fireplace missing a mantel? Some newer, modern designs eliminate the mantel, instead opting for a simple, sleek design. But older homes might also have simple, boring fireplaces without mantels. Installing one adds more interest to the outdated fireplace, and it can help distract from other ugly elements of the fireplace. Or, the existing mantel might be so outdated or worn that there's no way to save it and have it look good. In those cases, installing a new mantel can completely change the look of your fireplace area, eliminating those unfixable elements and replacing them with something fresh and modern.

Using a prefabricated mantel makes the process as simple as possible. You don't have to cut any boards or build anything yourself — simply install the support cleats, position the mantel, and screw it into place. The instructions might vary slightly, but the process is typically straightforward and something you can complete quickly. And, prefabricated mantels come in all sizes, finishes, and styles, so you can find a cozy, handcrafted look using natural materials or a sleek, smooth, modern mantel with minimal embellishments. Building a beautiful wood mantel on a budget is also an option with a few boards and some mounting hardware. This option can be more cost-effective and allows you to customize the mantel.

Classic red brick adorns many older fireplaces, but it's not always the best look in contemporary homes, especially if the brick is discolored from years of use. If the brick is still in good shape structurally, painting over it is often an easy update that makes it feel more modern. You can use the paint to overcome the problems with the brick. For example, if the brick is too dark and overpowering for the room, white gives it a clean, contemporary feel that makes it stand out less. Or, you might consider painting your fireplace black to create an elegant, elevated look that diminishes the old-fashioned brick look.

Before you ever pick up a paintbrush, clean the brick surround well, first with a wire brush to remove debris, and then with a citrus cleaner to get rid of soot and dirt. An oil-based primer is your best bet to prep the brick — choose an option that blocks stains. If you're painting a functional fireplace, make sure the paint you choose is designed for heat. Otherwise, your paint job won't last long. Plan for at least two coats of your paint, but you may need three for full coverage.

If painting the fireplace surround isn't enough to update your fireplace, you might need to extend your paint roller to the nearby wall. When the fireplace and wall around it are all one color, the fireplace blends in and is less noticeable. You can paint the entire room, but painting just the wall with the fireplace is much faster and easier.

First, decide if you want to paint the fireplace and the wall or just the wall. If your fireplace is already painted, match the wall to that color. Likewise, if you have a stone fireplace, you might choose a natural color that you pull from the stones for the wall paint. Or, choose a new color to paint the fireplace and the wall behind it. This gives the entire wall the same look, creating the blending effect. To incorporate a pattern, choose a subtly patterned wallpaper in a color that's similar to the fireplace surround, and apply it to the wall on either side of it.

Painting isn't the only way to refresh outdated brick fireplace surrounds. Trying different textures or brick painting techniques, like German smear and limewash, hides the look of ugly brick while giving the fireplace a unique look. Instead of just changing the color of the brick, many of these techniques add new texture. For example, German smear uses mortar to roughly cover the bricks, creating an older, rustic look. You can also apply stucco or concrete over the bricks using a trowel. Meanwhile, limewash creates a matte, chalky look and is created by brushing on lime powder mixed with water. These techniques typically result in neutral colors, which can brighten up the fireplace and the room. 

Before choosing this method, consider your preferred look for the fireplace. Many of these surface finishes create an older European feel — you could probably guess that from the German smear name. You'll get a rustic outcome because these techniques still let part of the brick show, and you have lots of texture, rather than a sleek, smooth finish that's common for modern aesthetics.

Some people want to do more than give old brick a new color or texture — they want it to disappear completely. If you fall in this camp, consider applying a different material over the existing surround. Not just any material will do — it needs to be non-combustible since it's so close to the firebox — that's why brick is so popular. But if brick isn't your style (or you have nightmares about the outdated brick that won't let you even consider it), there are plenty of other options to hide it completely and transform the fireplace. Before you consider anything, check the local fire codes to determine what is and isn't allowed. 

Let's start with what you can't use: No wood (that includes shiplap), vinyl, or wallpaper. You might be able to skirt the rule if you add a fire-resistant insert or have a zero-clearance fireplace, which doesn't require protection between it and combustible materials. For worry-free coverings, stick with non-combustible options like tile, sheet metal, stacked stone, or stone slabs. You may need to apply thinset over the bricks to create a smooth surface for the new material.

Built-in shelves and cabinets on either side of a fireplace are always in style. If your fireplace stands solo on the wall, adding shelving can help balance out and modernize the look. It's also a good way to distract from an outdated fireplace — tall shelving takes the attention off of the eyesore, especially when you decorate the shelves strategically. Don't let the idea of built-ins intimidate you. You can create the look without actually building the shelving into the wall. 

Setting up freestanding bookshelves is an option. Arrange them near the fireplace, and decorate them to fit the room's style. You can also create gorgeous fireplace built-ins on a budget with an IKEA Billy bookcase hack. The BILLY series includes a variety of cabinet sizes and configurations, including pieces with doors, so you can customize the look and choose cabinets that fit the space next to your fireplace. Adding trim pieces between the shelves and along the top makes them look more built-in. Or, install a basic kitchen cabinet or bench at the bottom of each side, and install floating shelves above. The shelving and wall as a whole become the focal point rather than the archaic fireplace.

An old wood fireplace that's no longer safe to use (or that you don't want to use) can feel like an obsolete eyesore in your living room. If the unit hasn't been taken care of, the inside might look dingy, which detracts from the visual appeal. You can solve both problems by installing a fireplace insert, which is essentially a mini heater that slides into the firebox of a traditional fireplace. There are gas and electric inserts, but there are many hidden downsides to gas fireplaces, including the high cost of fuel and potential safety issues. Electric inserts are easier to install because they don't require any venting, and they don't have to be connected to a gas line. You simply plug them in and level them in the opening.

You'll want to measure the opening in your fireplace to help you choose the correct size of insert. They come in a range of styles, so you can customize the look. It's also important to consider the features of each option. Electric inserts create a flame-like look using LED lights, with some including settings for you to adjust how the flames look. It's common for the inserts to include remote controls, and some also connect to home-assistance devices.

You'll find many clever ways to repurpose an unused fireplace, but adding candles, lanterns, or another source of light is a simple option. This approach creates a decorative look that can make an ugly fireplace look prettier, hide an ugly firebox, or draw attention away from other unattractive parts of the unit. Decorating the firebox is a simple upgrade because it doesn't require any structural upgrades. Choose the type of lighting you want to use, arrange it in the firebox with any other decorations, and you're done with the project.

One option for a classic look is a set of artificial logs, like the ROVSUN electric fireplace insert, which also comes with a heating option. Using battery-powered candles in various sizes creates a whimsical look while creating a warm glow. You can place the candles on the bottom of the firebox or arrange them on a candleholder inside. It's a safer option than using traditional candles, which should never be left unattended. If you do use real candles, a fire screen can make them a little safer. Other ideas include decorative lanterns, fairy lights, or even a small, decorative lamp.

Log holders, pokers, shovels, screens, and other fireplace tools are practical if you have a wood-burning fireplace. But they can also be decorative. If the tools you already have are just as outdated as your fireplace, replace them with versions that are attention-grabbing and more modern. Or, if you don't have all of the tools, expand your collection. Even if you don't have a wood-burning fireplace, you can still add the tools as a decorative element. Positioning the tools in front of the fireplace creates a visual barrier that minimizes the less appealing features. 

Log holders can be particularly decorative, as they come in a range of sizes and styles. Choose a model that is unique and commands attention. For example, the Yohsnor indoor firewood rack is tall, making it a dominant feature in the room, and it has angled sections for logs, which creates almost a sculptural look. Large screens, like this BEAMNOVA bronze fireplace screen, feature a decorative design while also blocking the view of the firebox and part of the fireplace surround. Don't want to spend a fortune on the makeover? Look at the thrift store for vintage fireplace accessories that fit the style of your home. 

If the fireplace design doesn't extend clear to the ceiling, you have a blank canvas that's perfect for distracting from the unappealing design below. While some fireplaces feature decorative chimney walls all the way to the ceiling, builder-grade fireplaces are often plain above the mantel. It can leave the entire wall looking a little boring, and it makes the antiquated fireplace the star of the show — the opposite of what you want to happen. Avert your gaze upward by using that space to create a decorative display.

One popular option is creating a shiplap wall above your fireplace. Horizontal shiplap is a classic option, but you can shake it up with vertical planks or a unique design, like a chevron pattern. Stain the wood to highlight the natural grain, or paint it for a crisp look. To use less wood, buy some thin, decorative trim and create squares or rectangles with it, similar to the look of wainscoting. Installing tile or stone above the mantel is another option. Adding artwork, mirrors, light sconces, and other accents in that area rounds out the design and gives your guests more reasons to look up and away from the fireplace.

Maybe you have outdated doors. Or perhaps you want to replace your fireplace curtain with glass doors. Either way, installing a fresh, updated set of doors on your fireplace creates a new focal point, and the doors can hide an unattractive firebox that you don't want people to see. Doors serve a functional purpose for wood-burning and gas fireplaces, but you can also install them on electric fireplaces for a decorative element. And the good news is that fireplace door installation only requires a few basic tools (usually a drill, screwdriver, and level), so it's something most homeowners can handle.

While there are standard sizes for fireplace doors, you'll need to measure your opening to make sure you select the right one. That allows you to browse the door options in the correct size to find one in a finish and style that works with your decor. The installation process typically involves leveling and securing the doors to the frame.

If you have a gas or wood-burning fireplace, you likely have a hearth — either a raised or flush area that sticks out 16 inches or more in front of the fireplace. While they're primarily safety features, they can also affect the look of your fireplace. An outdated hearth can bring down the look of the rest of the piece, especially if it's raised, since it's so large and prominent. Updating the hearth with paint or tile can hide the unattractive look. Choosing a patterned tile option draws the eye even more with the creative design, which can pull attention away from the rest of the fireplace if it's outdated.

To paint the hearth, you'll want to use a high-temperature paint to make sure the area is still safe to use and that the paint holds up. Choose a color similar to the fireplace or floor to make the hearth disappear, or choose a bold color if you want a sharp contrast to pull attention away from an unattractive fireplace. If you tile the hearth, check local codes to make sure you choose a compliant material. You'll want a non-combustible material — natural stone, porcelain, glass, and ceramic are common materials that work well.