How to Seal a Fireplace Surround

empty fireplace with classical surround
  • 2-4 hours
  • Beginner
  • 10-30
What You'll Need
Fireplace and Stove Repair Caulk
Caulk Gun
Putty knife
What You'll Need
Fireplace and Stove Repair Caulk
Caulk Gun
Putty knife

The fireplace surround may need to be sealed if you find that heat and soot are escaping from gaps between the fireplace and the bricks. It can create quite a mess if this happens. If you seal the fireplace surround properly, you do not have to worry about the soot staining your brick.

This will keep the fireplace looking as good as new and your walls will be stain free. This is an easy job and only takes a few minutes. The best time to do this is when you are preparing to use the fireplace for wintertime. Here are a few simple steps that will help you to seal that surround and keep it from leaking.

Step 1 - Inspection

You need to be well prepared before you start the project. First, start by doing a thorough inspection of the fireplace surround. If it has been used recently wait a couple of days for it to cool off. The best time to do this is when it is summer or just before the cold weather sets in. Also, get the tools mentioned above handy to smoothly complete the project. Next, you should lay down an old blanket or plastic sheet to protect your clothing and the floor in front of the fireplace.

Step 2 - Checking for Gaps

Lean your head into the fireplace and look for any gaps all around the edges of the surround and the bricks. Check all corners properly. You will need to seal any gaps you find. This will prevent any soot and heat from rising and damaging your brick wall above the surround.

Step 3 - Caulking the Gaps

It is recommended that you use Fireplace Repair Caulk to caulk the gaps. This caulk sets hard and it comes black in color. It will seal any air leaks you may find in your fireplace surround.

Load the caulk gun. Lie on your back facing up into the fireplace and look at the top of the fireplace surround. Using the loaded caulk gun, lay down a bead of caulk to seal any and all gaps that you find. With this silicate cement, use a generous supply to fill in the gaps.

Step 5 - Spreading the Caulk

Now that you have applied the silicate bead of caulking, use your finger or putty knife to spread it over the gaps to create a seal tight enough to close the gaps between the brick and the fireplace surround. Ensure that material is spread evenly and is smooth as this will provide a smooth finish look.

Step 6 - Allow Time for the Cement to Set

All you have to do now is wait for the caulk to harden and create a solid seal before using the fireplace.

Step 7 - Recheck

Once the caulk is hard and set, check once again for any gaps left. Once you are satisfied, feel free to enjoy the fireplace.