Archive for the ‘Mantels’ Category
Fireplace Mantels Can Make or Break the Interior Design of a Room
October 6th, 2009 | 
Author: Most people perceive fireplace mantels as those shelves that extend out beyond the firebox. However, a mantel can encompass not only an ornamental framing around the firebox, but also the facing which makes up the outside of the fireplace “wall.” If your fireplace has a mantel shelf, the panel or area above it can also be construed as part of the mantel as well.
Many fireplace mantels are made from non-flammable materials for safety and can be incorporated into the design until it butts into the opening of the firebox. No facing is needed. However, if you decide to use other materials like plaster, drywall, fiberboard or wood, you will have to use a noncombustible material to create a facing that frames the firebox. Consult with your local building safety inspectors to determine the measurements of this facing to avoid creating a fire hazard.
Because fireplace mantels are a highly visible element in any room, take your time and shop around for a few options. Fireplace stores will have a variety of options on their showroom floors. Even home improvement centers can offer up some ideas. Do a little research on the internet for inspiration. When you have narrowed down your designs, do a little budget exercise to see how much you are willing to spend on creating a new mantel. If you are not an adept handyman, enter the cost of a contractor into the budgetary equation.
There are a number of prefabricated kits on the market that are geared toward the home do-it-yourselfer. These can be found in a number of styles and materials like solid wood, metal or items with a wood veneer finish. You can also purchase pre-made mantel pieces that are a natural wood or fiber board. With this option, it is less expensive and you can either paint or stain it to your specifications so that it matches your room’s décor.
Starting fireplace mantels from scratch is the optimal choice, but most people buy a home with an existing fireplace. When the mantel does not reflect the new homeowner’s taste, they can either purchase the prefabricated kits as mentioned above or have a mantel custom made-to-order.
This is especially attractive option if the mantel area is an odd shape. However, expect custom jobs to be pricey.
Do-it-yourselfers can also give existing fireplace mantels a cosmetic facelift. This could be anything from simply painting the brick or resurfacing it with a thin stone veneer. Plastering or drywalling over an existing mantel are other options. Theoretically, you are only limited by your imagination and of course, your wallet! Just think things through before setting the wheels in motion for your mantel re-do.
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Bedford Fireplace Mantel’s – The Choice of Many New Homeowners
Many homes are now donning fireplaces and certainly a Bedford fireplace mantel is sure to bring warmth and charm to any home. This Victorian style wood mantel is often found with extra large corbels that support the mantel shelf. Block feet at the bottom give this mantel its Victorian feel. This full scale mantel makes a great replacement mantel for those redecorating or redesigning their home with a Victorian design.
A smaller version of the Bedford fireplace mantel includes only the mantel shelf with two corbels to hold the shelf in place. This type of shelf is mounted directly to the wall. It’s offered in several lengths and can be painted or left as its natural wood. There are many finishing options for the mantel shelf including pine, oak, maple and cherry. If you’d like, you can order the shelf unfinished to stain or paint yourself. These are easily installed and come complete with mounting screws. Available in lengths up to 8 feet and costs approximately $200. If you are on the hunt for a specific length of mantel, you can have this shelf custom cut to any length you desire.
Bedford fireplace mantels can also be custom shaped. Special shapes such as fireplaces that turn corners are considered custom shape orders are available. When searching online for a fireplace mantel, be sure it includes a measurement worksheet and that your order will also include simple directions. If you are ordering a custom Bedford mantel, instructions on installation are very important. If there is no mention about instructions included, be sure to ask before ordering.
A Bedford fireplace mantel is usually placed over an arched Victorian style fireplace. There are many arched fireplaces to choose from. The Victorian fireplace traditionally burned coal or wood but are available today for use with gas. Gas is much more convenient and makes it easier to keep your fireplace clean. Many have push button ignition and include coal or wood. Some may also offer an infa red remote control to light up your gas fireplace. This can add quite a bit to the cost of your Bedford fireplace so be sure to take this into consideration before your purchase.
When deciding on which fireplace to purchase, consider the output of heat. Is your fireplace more for look and design than heat? Some fireplaces will come with a high output gas fire, giving off more heat. Also be sure to purchase the correct size fireplace for your chimney size and mantel sizes will vary. A Bedford fireplace mantel is sure to please you and your family while heating up your home!