It’s a straightforward question: ‘Can you paint a log burner?’ and one you’re probably asking yourself if your log burner looks tired and needs a refresh. The quick answer is yes, but there are essential steps and materials you need to get it right.
Once finished, not only will you achieve a smart new look that matches your decor, but it will also help you get the maximum heat from your wood burner, keeping your home cosy on those cold, dark nights. So, don’t hesitate to take action and make it happen with this guide.
Joanna Humphreys is a fire and stove expert at Direct Stoves, an online stove retailer selling an array of wood-burning, multi-fuel, gas, and electric stoves.
Can you repaint a log burner?
“Yes, you can paint a log burner,” shares Joanna Humphreys, Fire & Stove Specialist at Direct Stoves. “However, it’s important that you use the right type of paint. Due to the very high temperatures log burners can reach, normal household paints would likely bubble, discolour and flake off. Instead, always use heat-resistant paint when painting your log burner for the best results.”
Tools to paint a log burner
You will only need a few tools along with appropriate paint to get a good finish.
- Steel wool or a wire brush (like these TIVOLY Hand Brushes from Amazon)
- Dust sheets (like these Besto Laminated Cotton Dust Sheets from Amazon)
- Dry clean clothes
- Paint brush or paint sprayer
- Painter's tape (like this Frog Tape Green Masking Tape from Amazon)
Try these to help paint a log burner
Ultra-soft and highly absorbent microfiber cleaning cloths, great for cleaning windows and metal surfaces. This pack of 12 cloths are a handy 32cm x 32cm and available in four colours.
![Inral Heat Resistant Spray Paint Black Matt [400ml] – High Temperature Bbq, Stove & Exhaust Paint – Durable, Fast-Drying Coating for Metal – Ideal for Diy & Automotive Use](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Cv676xURq7gYWiiCz2VShU-1200-80.jpg.webp)
This heat-resistant paint spray can withstand extreme heat up to 800°C, ideal for refreshing log burners. Available in four colours: Black, Aluminium, Grey, and White.
Made from long-lasting steel fibres, this pack of three steel wool pads offers three different grades. Choose from grade 3 to remove rust and grade 0000 for fine finishing.
How to paint a log burner
A dirty and/or rusty old stove can potentially make your room look messy. Keeping it clean and restoring it will prolong its lifespan. Here we run through the steps to get a log burner back to its best.
If you are dealing with rust Humphreys says, “While unsightly, the good news is that some light surface rust isn’t immediately detrimental to a stove’s functionality. But it should be handled promptly before it expands deeper into the metal.”
1. Let burner cool down
Before you start you need to let the log burner cool says Humphreys, “First, if used, allow the stove to cool fully before cleaning the rust. Attempting to remove rust from a hot surface can damage the finish.
2. Remove rust
If your log burner is rusty, Humphreys says, "Use a soft abrasive like steel wool, gently scrub the rusted areas to loosen and flake off corrosion - take care not to scratch the surrounding finish."
If you have heavy rust, you may need to start with a wire brush. If you have no rust, use a fine steel wool to prep the surface. To finish your prep, Humphreys says, "Carefully wipe all loose particles away with a dry cloth. Otherwise, any remaining materials may be incorporated into the new finish."
3. Paint log burner
With the surface prepped, add painters tape to any areas you don't want to get paint on, i.e the window. Now apply your high-temperature stove paint. Humphreys suggests, "Match the original flat black or metallic finish for an integrated look."
She adds, "Let the paint cure fully, following the manufacturer's drying times, before restarting the stove." Humphreys advises, "Don't rush the paint process; it can ruin results." Adding, "Additional coats may be needed for full coverage.”
The best paint for log burners
If you’re thinking of painting your log burner you will need to choose the right paint to ensure that the process is worthwhile. Jon Butterworth, Director at Arada Stoves says “When ordering your stove, the manufacturer will usually include a pot of paint which can be used to paint your stove should you need to touch it up at a later date from potential wear and tear.”
But if you are looking for a complete repaint, you will need to invest in a paint that will stick to the surface, adds Butterworth “Stove-specific paint (like this RUSTINS High Heat Paint from Amazon) is the only paint to use on your stove as it is made to withstand the high temperatures from the stove body.”
Butterworth explains why, “Regular paint is not made with the same properties and therefore should never be used to paint your stove.” He adds some design advice, “If you’re interested in a colourful stove for your living room, ensure you plan your colour palette to include the stove in the early stages of the design process."
Jon Butterworth is MD of Arada Stoves, one of the UK's leading suppliers of stoves including solid fuel, gas, boiler and bioethanol options, as well as outdoor products too.
FAQs
Are log burners always black?
When you think of log burners, it's almost inevitable that you picture the colour black. Humphreys explains why it's the colour of choice, “Log burners are often painted black because of practicality and tradition.”
But there is also a practical reason: “The dark finish helps with heat transfer through thermal radiation and convection, while the heat-resistant paint provides a durable coating that can withstand the high temperatures stoves reach.”
She adds, “Historically, black lead polish was also used to protect the cast iron stoves from rust and discolouration, keeping the stove looking its best for longer.”
But black isn’t the only colour for log burners, explains Humprehys, “A coloured log burner (check out this hot pink stove from Arada Stoves) is a great way to add interest and depth to your scheme without overpowering the whole space - allowing those who are a little less colour confident to use bold colours as an accent rather than the main feature.
How do you clean the outside of a log burner?
To keep a log burner looking its best, you’ll need to clean and maintain it. However, you’ll need to use the right tools and materials to ensure you don’t damage the exterior.
Viktor Velikov, Director of Elserve, offers some pointers: “When you're cleaning your log burner, make sure you avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads that can scratch or strip the finish. A specialist stove cleaner (like this Dirtbusters Stove Polish from Amazon) or a mild degreaser works best for removing soot and smoke stains.”
You will also need to apply correctly, continues Velikov, “Apply a small amount to the affected area, then buff with a microfibre cloth to restore the paint’s sheen.” He adds, “For everyday care, wipe the stove down with a lint-free cloth once it has cooled after use. This prevents soot from settling into the surface, so the colour and finish stay fresh for longer.”
Humphreys adds further advice, “Although white vinegar is regarded as a gentle cleaner for most household items, it’s worth noting that it’s unsuitable for your log burner. As a general rule of thumb, you want to avoid using liquid anywhere near the stove as this can lead to rust.”
She adds, “Instead, use a log burner glass cleaning pad to keep the glass panel looking as good as new and use a dry cloth to dust down the exterior.”
Viktor Velikov is the Director of Elserve, with over 22 years in the domestic appliance industry. He leads a trusted team delivering efficient, reliable home appliance repairs across Greater London
If you’re thinking of investing in a new log burner, then you need to check out our 25 log burner ideas, 13 double-sided log burner ideas and freestanding log burner ideas to help you choose the perfect log burner for your needs.
