Fireplace mantels are a classic way to bring more beauty to your fireplace. Since the fireplace is a focal point in your living space you will want one that really makes a statement about your personal tastes and that matches your home well. There are many varieties to choose from in a wide range of prices.
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Choosing the right style of fireplace mantels is more than simply choosing one that you like. You need to consider the architecture of your home to find the mantel that really fits into your home well. For instance, cathedral ceilings often require a very bold mantel that can make the room feel cozy despite the large space while a smaller mantel that is made from modern materials can make a too small living space seem much more modern and spacious. There are many styles that are also made for any living space.
For example, a simple wooden mantel can work well in many different types of homes and even in smaller bedrooms and other areas where there isn’t a lot of space. Wood is often the best choice when you aren’t sure what kind of décor you are going to opt for in a new home or when you remodel and want to find a multi-functional piece that will last for many years to come. Fireplace mantels are one of the most important style pieces in your home but that doesn’t always mean that it needs to be big and bold. Some of the simplest styles are also the ones that are the most popular for homes of all sizes.
- Fireplace mantels are sold in woods such as mahogany, cherry and oak, painted wood, marble and metal. Some of the most popular styles of these materials include the following:
- Full mantels with mirrors and shelving are a traditional choice that can be used when you really want the fireplace to be the focal point of the room.
- Ornate wooden mantels painted white can resemble Roman columns on each side with inviting scroll work along the top of the mantel.
- Marble fireplace mantels come in several colors including grey, black, white and pastel colors. This is a mantel that will be durable enough for long term use and that will work well in modern styled homes.
- Half log mantels are among the simplest types of mantels available. These shelves are easy to install and lend your home a rustic charm that makes the room cozy and inviting.
- Colonnades are simple wooden mantels that can be made to suit your personal tastes. These mantels often have optional shelving on either side of the fireplace.
With each of these different styles available there are many different variations that allow you to have a mantel that really fits your style and your home perfectly. There are dozens of styles, optional features and colors that you can choose from.
Installation
The installation of your fireplace mantels will depend on the style that you have chosen. Some mantels can simply be nailed or screwed in above the fireplace while others require the use of a cleat for support. The simplest mantels to install are mantle shelves that sit above the fireplace. These shelves don’t have a lot of weight that needs to be supported and don’t cover the sides of the fireplace. If you have chosen a fireplace shelf then you can simply attach the shelf to the wall making sure you are at least twelve inches away from the flue when drilling your screws in.
For full fireplace mantels and shelves made from marble and other heavy materials you will want to use a cleat for support. A cleat is a board that is cut to fit inside the fireplace mantel and then inserted into the top of the fireplace. You may have a space in your brickwork for the cleat already. You will then need to attach the fireplace to the cleat so that the board supports the mantel. This is an especially important process if you are using a heavy wooden, stone or metal mantle piece and want to make sure it is secure.
Height and Depth Requirements
You also need to make sure that you follow all regulations for installing the fireplace mantels properly. Since most mantels are made from wood, which is a flammable material, you will want to follow the height regulations that are indicated in the manual that comes along with your mantel. If you don’t have a manual then you will want to place the shelf at least eleven to nineteen inches above the fireplace, depending on the material that the mantel is made from.
Your fireplace mantels will be attached to the studs behind the fireplace using long screws. The weight of the mantel, which is often judged in the size of the mantle shelf, will determine the length of the screws. For most fireplaces, the screws need to be installed about six inches into the wall studs behind the fireplace. You can decide the length of the screws you should use by measuring the shelf and then using screws that are at least two-thirds the length of the mantle shelf. You may also refer to your manual to find out more about the size of the screws that you need.
There are several methods to installing fireplace mantels. Your mantel may require additional steps to be installed safely. The mantel can easily be installed by a professional if you aren’t sure about the steps that are involved in the installation. A professional installation can cost $200 or more depending on the type of mantle that you have.
If you need to have additional wall studs incorporated into the design of your fireplace to provide heavier fireplace mantels with more support the price of the installation may increase. Each step that you take to increase the sturdiness of your mantle will also make it safer around your family.
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