How to Redo an Outdated Rock Fireplace

Cover the areas around your fireplace with plastic dropcloths.

Put on rubber gloves and a respirator mask. Remove fireplace ashes from the fireplace firebox using a small broom and dustpan. Make sure the ashes are completely cold with no burning embers before you begin. Dispose of the ashes in a trash bag. Use a vacuum to remove any remaining ashes.

Apply a fireplace cleaning solvent to the interior of the firebox following the manufacturer's directions. Allow the cleaner to soak for a few minutes before scrubbing with a stiff-bristle brush that doesn't have wire bristles. Rinse the solvent off the firebox walls with rags dipped in clean water.

Clean the exterior surfaces of your rock fireplace with a stiff brush dipped in a cleaning mixture of 1/2 cup trisodium phosphate mixed with 1 gallon of warm water. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands and avoid getting the mixture on your clothes, carpet or skin. Use the brush to scrub the rocks and rinse with rags dipped in clean water.

Apply a coat of interior latex paint to an old wood mantel to give it a fresh look. Choose an off-white paint color or a color that complements the room's trim and baseboards. Use a paintbrush to apply two coats of paint, allowing the paint to dry overnight between the first and second coat.

Install a new fireplace screen, tools and grate to give a cleaner and more modern look. Shiny stainless steel fireplace tools, a brushed pewter fireplace screen and a heavy-duty stainless steel grate add a contemporary flair. A new set of black iron tools, an ornately sculpted black fireplace screen and a new iron grate can enhance a traditional decor.

Hang a large piece of artwork on the fireplace to update it with a new focal point. Brightly colored art can add fresh energy to the fireplace. Select a picture theme that enhances the room's decor.

Place a vase of white flowers or twigs or a potted green plant on one side of the mantel that is in proportion to the size of the fireplace and mantel.

Position a grouping of two or three candlesticks on the other end of the mantel to balance out the greenery or flowers. Metal or black wooden candlesticks add texture to any decor. Place white candles atop the candlesticks for a fresh, clean look.