Restoring an original Cast Iron Fireplace is a subject we get asked about a lot due to the fact that we sell Reproduction Victorian Fireplaces. Although we only sell new Gallery Fireplaces we are more than happy to pass on any info and help we can and supply the products you need to restore it with.
Cast Iron Fireplaces are the most likely type of fireplace that need restoring it is easy to restore yourself and if you remove the fireplace so you can work on it a proper height it makes the job far easier. Don’t be tempted to use a blowtorch to remove the paint this can easily crack the cast iron and the fumes are toxic due to old lead in the paint. We suggest using Nitromors paint stripper or any equivalent. Scrape away the dissolving paint using plastic or wooden scraper for the decorative details use a stiff nylon brush don’t be to hasty to remove paint as there will be many layers and it takes time for the paint stripper to work. After all the paint has been removed wipe down with white spirits do not use water or the cast iron will start to rust. A base coat of Heat Temp Paint can then be applied and a top coat if you want the Matt Black finish or if you prefer the more traditional look to the fireplace apply Black Lead Grate polish with a brush leave to dry then buff to the required finish. This fireplace is now complete and will look good for years to come just make sure it’s kept dry and never clean with water to avoid the fireplace going rusty.
 
Tags: Black Lead, Cast Iron, Fireplace, Fireplaces, Paint, Restoration, Victorian