How To Paint Fireplace Mesh Curtains

What causes fireplace mesh to rust and become discolored?

Over time, mesh curtains can develop rust, especially in areas with high humidity. It can also become discolored if the fire is burning too close to the opening of the firebox and touching the mesh. If the second if true, we would advise moving the log grate further back in the firebox to prevent this from reoccurring.

Luckily, there's a simple solution to giving your mesh a fresh look. PAINT! But it can't be just any spray paint you have laying around the garage or workroom. It needs to be high-temperature stove paint.

Why can't I use regular paint to touch up my mesh curtains?

Regular paint is not made to withstand the heat of the firebox and will peel or blister. Don't have any high-temp paint? Fireplace Doors Online has got you covered with our line of Stove Bright spray paint. 

Follow along with our instructional video to see just how easy it is to paint a fireplace mesh curtain. Written instructions can be found below.

Step 1

• Use a screwdriver to remove the screws and release the mesh curtain rod.

TIP: Leave the mesh on the curtain rod. This will make it much easier to handle and flip the mesh when painting.

Step 2

• Lay down a piece of cardboard or newspaper in a well-vented area.
• Make sure the mesh is spread out as wide and flat as possible.
• Apply the paint evenly to one side of the mesh by applying the paint in rows.
• Don't forget to paint the curtain pulls!

Wait about 30 minutes for the mesh to completely dry. May take longer depending on surrounding temperature and humidity.

Step 4

• Flip the mesh curtain over and paint the other side.
• Handle the mesh curtain by the rod for the best results.

Once again, make sure the mesh is spread out as wide as possible and wait about 30 minutes for the mesh to dry

Step 5

• Reinstall your mesh curtain.

The fireplace can be used right after the mesh curtain is installed. The mesh may give off a smell for the first 20 minutes or so. This is to be expected as the paint is being “heat-cured” by the fire, toughening and hardening the chemical makeup of the paint.

Check out our YouTube channel for more helpful, instructional videos.