Table Of Contents

Black leading a fireplace

Article Summary

If the fireplace was originally finished with matt-black paint, we'd normally use a suitable high-temperature paint to refresh it rather than black grate polish.

Start with one thin coat of black grate polish and buff it once completely dry. If the finish still looks patchy, apply a second thin coat. We prefer building the finish gradually rather than applying one heavy coat.

Keep black grate polish away from polished or highlighted areas, as it will cover the polished finish. Those sections need cleaning and maintaining separately.

Black leading is a traditional way to refresh the appearance of a black cast iron fireplace. Modern Black Lead Grate Polish can restore a dull finish and help cover small marks. It is applied in a thin layer, allowed to dry and then buffed.

Is Black Grate Polish Suitable for Your Fireplace?

Black grate polish is suitable for many traditional black cast iron fireplaces, grates and surrounds.
Do not apply it to:

Polished or highlighted cast iron
Painted surfaces
Enamel
Fireplace tiles
Marble or limestone surrounds
Granite or slate hearths

Check the existing finish before you begin. A fireplace that was originally painted may be better refreshed with high-temperature paint.

What You Will Need

You will need:

A soft brush
Clean cloths
Black grate polish
Protective gloves
A small brush for detailed areas
A covering for the hearth and floor

Black grate polish can mark nearby surfaces, so protect the surrounding area carefully.

Prepare the Cast Iron

Make sure the fireplace is cold before applying the polish. Remove dust and loose dirt with a soft brush or dry cloth. The cast iron should be clean and dry. Do not wash the fireplace with water immediately before black leading it.

Apply the Black Grate Polish

Put on protective gloves and apply a small amount of grate polish to a cloth. Work it into the cast iron in a thin, even layer. Use a small brush or cloth to reach decorative details and corners. Apply the polish sparingly. A heavy layer can be difficult to buff evenly and may collect in the fireplace detailing. Allow to dry thoroughly before the next step you will see it go more of a matt black colour.

Buff the Finish

Once dry, buff the cast iron with a clean cloth or soft brush. This removes loose residue and develops the finished appearance. Continue buffing until the surface looks even. A second thin coat can be applied if the cast iron still looks patchy. Allow the first coat to dry fully before adding more product.

Black Grate Polish or Matt-Black Paint?

Black grate polish and high-temperature paint produce different finishes. Grate polish is generally used to maintain or restore a traditional black cast iron finish.
High Temp Matt Black Paint may be more suitable for matt black painted fireplaces, scratches or areas where the existing coating has worn away. Do not apply both products without first checking how the fireplace was originally finished.

Looking After the Finish

Dust the fireplace regularly with a soft, dry cloth. The grate polish can be reapplied when the cast iron begins to look dull, but it should not need to be used every time the fireplace is cleaned. Read our full guide on how to clean and maintain a cast iron fireplace for advice on polished, highlighted and matt-black finishes.

Get in touch

About the Author

Mark Adams

As Managing Director (Anybody who asks gets the same response, "I sell fireplaces"). I am still found in the warehouse and in the showroom with a hands on approach.

I started Cast fireplaces in 2003, after working in the trade for numerous years and spotting an opportunity to sell fireplaces and stoves online. I left a comfortable, stable job and started up my own. I like the simple things in life, good food, walks out with the dogs and holidaying in Cyprus.

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