Painting a granite hearth

Citroen2cv

Hi, what is the best way to paint or paint material to use on a smooth granite fireplace hearth. Have tested with hammerite paint, and it scrapes off easily. I think even with a primer it will scrape away easy.

Calahonda52

Best way is not..
I think you will need something like an epoxy base

Citroen2cv

Calahonda52 wrote: »

Best way is not..
I think you will need something like an epoxy base

Yes , I know not ideal. So something like garage floor paint as a base?
I'm not worried about the heat, as the gas fire is barely ever used, and doesen't get hot anyway.

Macdarack

Etch the surface with acid or give it a sanding to give it a slightly porous surface then try paint it.

2011

You could just stick a thin cement board to it with tile adhesive. This could then be painted with ease. Cement board can bought in places like Chadwicks.

GreeBo

^ Great idea but I think Id use some sort of silicone, should give plenty of grip but also easy to remove without damage should you change your mind.

Citroen2cv

I wonder would tile paint be any good?
Has anyone used any before. Ceramic tiles would have a similar surface to smooth granite, so I'm thinking it might be a contender.

Tails142

If you're looking to paint something on, BIN primer will work, great stuff, note that you need methylated spirits to clean brushes or wipe it off if it gets where it's not supposed to go

https://www.zinsseruk.com/product/b-i-n/

dok_golf

BIN primer isn't suitable for this surface. Its far too brittle and chips easily.

dok_golf

https://www.owatrol.ie/product/esp-easy-surface-prep/

Citroen2cv

So in the end I used a Zinnser paint+primer on the hearth rolled on. It looks ok I suppose from a disyance. It has chipped in one place, so yea not very hard wearing. But I'm not worried, it's touched up now and it won't get any traffic. The reason I went with paint was to redo the fireplace on a budget. Here is a before and after shot.

Citroen2cv

Here it is.

Citroen2cv

Cost breakdown:
Old MDF and fine surround from adverts: 30euro
Paint for surround: 20 euro
Paint for hearth: 20 euro
Adhesive backed mosaic times: 60 euro
Grout: 10 euro