How to Change the Color of a Shiny Gold Fireplace Surround

Written By
April Sanders
April Sanders
Published: Oct 22, 2009
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Instead, if you like the design, invest in an inexpensive can of metal primer, a can of metal spray paint, and some painter's tools. With a little effort, in an hour or two you will have a brand-new and stylish fireplace surround that is not the least bit shiny or golden.

  1. Unscrew the fireplace surround and take it outside to be painted. Lay it on newspaper and proceed to Step 3. If you cannot remove the surround, move to Step 2.

  2. Protect the fireplace, hearth and mantel. Use painter's tape and newspapers to tape off areas you want to protect from paint. For example, you should cover the fireplace around the surround, as well as the glass areas in the middle of the surround. Leave only the shiny gold metal parts showing.

  3. Spray the metal primer on the gold surround, trying not to get it on the hearth or any nearby areas. Let it dry completely. If the gold is very bright and shiny, you might have to apply a second coat of primer.

  4. Cover the primer-coated surround with a layer of metal spray paint. Use straight, even spraying motions. If you are using black paint, you will probably only need one coat. White or silver paint will take two coats. Make sure the paint dries completely between coats.

  5. Carefully remove the tape and newspapers, taking care not to peel off any of the paint along with the tape. If you were able to remove the surround, take it back inside and re-attach it.

Things You Will Need

  • Spray-on metal primer
  • Spray-on metal paint in a color of your choice
  • Painter's tape
  • Newspapers, plastic or tarp
April Sanders

April Sanders is a writer, teacher and the mother of three boys. Raised on an organic farm, she is an avid gardener and believes that good growth starts with a rich, supportive foundation -- a philosophy that serves her well in both…

Sponsored
HomeSteady Logo

HomeSteady is the ultimate guide for all your household needs, from cleaning and HVAC to electrical, DIY and maintenance.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.