Fireplace Mantels - Give Your Fireplace Style

The term mantel is used to describe the area that defines the upper perimeter of a fireplace and, in some cases, reaches all the way up to the ceiling. This can include a decorative shelf that may be made out of a wide variety of materials. The installation of stylish fireplace mantels is an effective and affordable way to give an entire room a makeover and increase the value of your home at the same time.

With the introduction of central heating systems, fireplaces have become merely decorative in most modern homes. There are a number of different mantel styles available and they can be used on wood or gas stoves with equal success. Fireplaces provide families with great memories and they are great places to sit by while reading a book on a rainy day. So investing in a beautiful fireplace design is worth it.

Make Memories with a Beautiful Fireplace Mantel

The fireplace mantel is a popular place to display family photographs, candlesticks, trophies, flower arrangements and miscellaneous knick-knacks. Consider how you will place your fireplace tools next to the mantel as well. Most mantels will measure between ten and twenty inches deep. You will want to choose something that is fairly wide if you plan to display a lot of items on top of it. Consider the style of your fireplace as well, before choosing a mantel. Do you want an electric fireplace or a wood burning one?

Many wooden fireplace mantels are crafted out of hardwood like cherry, oak or pine. Single piece units are designed to be permanently fixed to a wall. Others are manufactured in separate pieces and will need to be put together before they can be installed above the fireplace.

Cherry is dark reddish brown and can be used as contrast against light colored walls or to complement a dark décor. Properly treated cherry wood will last for years and is at no risk of warping or decay. Oak is another popular choice for its durability and light color. It holds stain well, so you can match it to your existing furniture and wood accents.

Timber beams and logs are used to create wonderful rustic fireplace mantels. Many of these are completely handcrafted for a natural form and beauty that is difficult to duplicate with a machine. This is the perfect choice for a fireplace located in a log cabin, farmhouse or home that is dominated by country décor.

Antique fireplace mantels can be found made out of wood, marble or stone. Many of the mantels made out of wood will be lacquered to a high shine and some may be adorned with gold or bronze accents. There will likely be intricately carved scrollwork that displays amazing detail.

Marble mantles are refined and elegant. They are appropriate for use in most environments but are most suited to a villa or mansion. There are many colors to choose from and since this is a natural stone, each slab will have its own unique physical characteristics and pattern. You can be assured that no two mantels will be exactly alike.

Three types of stone fireplace mantels that you can look at are sandstone, limestone and granite. Natural stone is unique and durable. It can be hand carved with graceful curved edges or intricate designs depending on personal taste. These types of mantels are most effective when used with other architectural elements that have been carved out of stone.

For the look of genuine stone without the steep price, a cast stone mantel is a good choice. Cast stone is created using crushed limestone and other bits of aggregate mixed with a bonding agent. This thick paste is then poured into a mold. The cost is significantly more affordable than real stone. These mantels can be cast in any size or shape desired by the consumer.

With so many options available, homeowners are advised to carefully research the various fireplace mantels currently on the market. Gaining as much knowledge as possible about the various types of mantels will help you choose the right one for your home.