What wood can I use for a fireplace mantel?

What wood can I use for a fireplace mantel?

Fireplace Mantel Wood Options When looking for durability, consider a very dense wood like Cherry, Walnut, Mahogany, or Reclaimed Antique Heart Pine. When looking for affordability, consider woods like Poplar, Maple, or Oak.

What is the difference between a mantle and a mantelpiece?

In modern usage, mantel refers to a shelf above a fireplace and mantle refers to a cloak or covering.

How thick should a wood mantel be?

A depth of 7 inches is ideal for most mantels, as it allows plenty of room to accommodate decorative objects. Keep in mind that the top and the sides of the mantel should be the same depth.

Why is it called a mantelpiece?

The fireplace mantel or mantelpiece, also known as a chimneypiece, originated in medieval times as a hood that projected over a fire grate to catch the smoke. The term has evolved to include the decorative framework around the fireplace, and can include elaborate designs extending to the ceiling.

How do I decorate my mantel?

For an easy fireplace mantel decorating idea, hang a mirror in the middle and a sconce on either side. Anchor the mantel with a larger vase in front of the mirror and fill in with smaller accessories, such as vases, candlesticks, and decorative objects. Pick up on colors and materials found elsewhere in the room.

What is a good mantel height?

An ideal mantel height should range between 4 and 6 feet from the floor. A 6-foot mantel height is the right size for a larger room, but in a smaller room, it can take over the space. For smaller rooms, a 4.5-foot mantle would be a better choice.

Are wooden mantels safe?

Warning: Risk of fire and/or smoke damage may occur as a result of fireplaces and mantels installed without adequate fire-hazard clearances and may lead to asphyxiation, injury and/or death.

How hot can my wood mantle get?

Average room temperature is 70-75°F; therefore a 187-192°F surface temperature can be expected. On a solid surface, 150°F is very hot to the touch (to put this in perspective, water boils at 212°F and the average bath water temperature is 110°F).

What do you use to seal a wood mantel?

Applying a straight tung oil, linseed oil or polyurethane can be a good (and simple) approach. Applying a lacquer shell after the oil-based finish is applied can give a mantel a shinier look.

Is it OK to hang a TV above a fireplace?

It’s not advisable to mount a TV above a fireplace because excess heat and electronics don’t mix. The area above the fireplace is often warmer than other wall surfaces in your home.

What is a reclaimed fireplace mantel?

A reclaimed fireplace mantel adds a warm touch to the heart of every home. Crafted by hand, the hand hewn beam fireplace mantels showcase the hard work and craftsmanship that went into the original beams years ago. Carved using a broad axe, these hand hewn mantels still have the axe-marks from the artisans who created them.

What is the best type of beams for a reclaimed mantel?

Rough sawn beams provide a more refined mantel inherent with the circular saw marks created when the old wood beams were originally milled over a century ago. Faux wood box beams are an excellent choice when weight is an issue. A reclaimed fireplace mantel adds a warm touch to the heart of every home.

What is a faux wood fireplace mantel?

Created using cabinet lumber or beam skins, our faux wood fireplace mantels are the perfect alternative to a solid wood fireplace mantel. We are able to create many different looks and styles of mantels using the same techniques we use to create our faux wood beams.

Can a hand hewn mantel be installed as a floating shelf?

These solid wood timbers are cut to your specified length and finished with your preferred shade of finish. Matching corbels are also available, or the mantel can be installed as a floating shelf. Contact us with any questions about our reclaimed hand hewn mantels.