The Patio Expert Pages

Fireplace mantels are essential in decorating a fireplace. When buying a mantel, you have to bear in mind that it will define the personality of the room it's used in. The style of mantel you purchase doesn't have to be a perfect fit, but it should at least look attractive. Fortunately, mantel choices are abundant. You should have no trouble finding a mantel that matches your whatever budget, style and size.

Fireplace mantels are built from wood, stone or metal. Of the three, wooden mantels are cheapest. Also, they are easily carved to be made very decorative and attractive. Stone mantels are tougher and have multiple uses. But metal mantels are most cost effective. They can best perform the actual function of reserving heat in the fireplace with the least size. You might find them inadequate to your fireplace dimensions, so they can be laid with a stone or wooden facade.

When looking for a fireplace mantel shelf, it's best to get a stone mantel. Fireplace mantel shelves made of metal can handle more weight compared to other materials. However, fireplace mantel shelves of wood and metal do have their merits. Wood enhances a room better, but should only be allowed to carry light items. Metal is better at shielding the fireplace, but is the least useful as a fireplace mantel shelf. The reason is metal actually absorbs heat as well.Unfortunately, metal is prone to absorbing heat from the fireplace itself.

Decorative electric fireplaces include the mantel in its design. As long as decorative electric fireplaces have a plug-in socket in the area, you can put it there. Although they're not the same thing as a real fireplace, they're far more versatile and flexible to use. Decorative electric fireplaces can be put in pretty much any room, even in the office. You can also get wall-mounted decorative electric fireplaces, as well as fireplace-TV stand combos.

For the more commonplace fireplace mantels, you need to plan out some specific data. For the most part, you figure out what you need, then get the appropriate mantels. Verify the room's technical dimensions, and then the dimensions of the fireplace and area surrounding it, and the room's overall mood.

After that, you have to install that mantel. This can be a daunting but not impossible task. You can get fireplace mantel kits, usually using wood as building materials, that you can assemble and install yourself. Other fireplace mantels are best handled by a professional. This is definitely the case with stone mantels, and metal antique mantels or reproductions. Keep this in mind when buying a mantel.