How to Paint Tyndall Stone Fireplaces

Clean the fireplace by applying a thin layer of limestone cleaner to the stone. Scrub the cleaner onto the stone with a scrub brush. Fill a plastic bucket with cool water. Dip the brush into the bucket and rub the fresh water on the stone, until you remove all traces of the cleaner. Let the stone dry for several hours or overnight.

Place sheets of newspaper on the surrounding walls and on the mantle. Keep the paper secured with small pieces of masking tape. Add more paper to any areas around the fireplace. The paper stops paint from bleeding or splashing onto those surfaces.

Apply a coat of stone primer to the Tyndall stone. Limestone has a slightly smooth surface, but because you still encounter bumps and veins, use a paintbrush. Once the primer dries, check the surface for any signs of natural stone poking through. If you see any of the original stone, apply a second coat of primer.

Paint the stone with a masonry paint, designed for use on stone and brick surfaces. Apply an even coat of paint to the stone and let the paint dry overnight. After the paint dries, apply a second coat and let the paint layer dry completely.

Look over the fireplace for any spots you missed before. Cover those spots with paint and a small artist’s paintbrush. Once you completely cover the fireplace, let the paint dry. Remove the newspaper sheets and masking tape from the surrounding areas.