A Guide To Fireplace Mantels
By Eric Morris, Fri Dec 9th

Fireplace mantels are functional design elements that addcharacter and depth to your room while displaying your uniquetaste and style. A rustic mantel can transform aliving room. A mantel, whether you choose to have an entiresurround or just the shelf mantel, could be just what theinterior designer ordered for a dull living room. Inspired byGreek and Roman architecture, mantels made their debut duringthe Italian Renaissance in Italy. Fireplaces were commonlyaccompanied by elaborate columns, pilasters, carved figures andarchitectural molding. By the advent of the Edwardian era,mantels were streamlined to accommodate more subtle designs.Modern mantel shelves, on the other hand, originated with theuse of the high density construction fiberboard.

As for mantel materials, mahogany has always been a popularchoice, as well as walnut and elm. Indeed, the materials usedfor mantel designs vary greatly, ranging from concrete to wood,metal, gypsum, plaster and glass. For a more sophisticated look,many designers prefer a marble and tile frame surrounding afireplace.

Creating a mantel can be a costly engagement, especially whenshopping for a custom-made model. Some cost savings areavailable for those interested in constructing from a mantelkit, complete with shelves and ornamental designs.

For ready-made models, relatively inexpensive mantles tend to bemade from fiberboard, and range from $250-300. Pre-cast concreteand plaster are somewhat costlier, though certainly stillaffordable for most homeowners. Stone and wood are considerablymore expensive, starting at about $700 and reaching severalthousand dollars.

If you’re looking to eliminate the contractor, you can build afireplace mantel using a do-it-yourself kit. These are notalways easy to assemble, but can be durable and detailed. Youalso have the satisfaction of having added to the beauty of yourhome.

About the author:Fireplace MantelsInfo provides detailed information about wood, stone,custom, antique, and discount mantels, as well asfireplace mantel shelves, surrounds, and more. MantelsInfo is the sister site of Gas Fireplaces Web.