How Do You Finish A Fireplace Hearth?
During the winter months, the fireplace hearth may be one of the dirtiest areas of the entire home. Finishing the fireplace hearth will provide at least three benefits: it will be easier to clean the stone or tile, the stone or tile will not become discolored by soot and ash, and the fireplace hearth will look more attractive after a few coats of finish have been applied. It is very important to work with a very clean surface. Stone finishes will lock in any dirt and ash left on the hearth’s surface. Vacuum the surface of the hearth with either a Shop-Vac or a household vacuum. The surface of the hearth needs to be clean and free of dust, dirt, ash, soot and any other contaminants that will adversely affect the finish layer. Wipe off the surface of the hearth with a damp sponge to remove any residual contaminants that the vacuum did not pick up. If the surface of the hearth is rough or uneven, do what you can with a damp sponge. Allow the surface to dry thoroughly. Apply a penetrating
