Fireplace Mantles, the essence of beauty

It is fascinating to study how man has deftly converted fireplace-mantles into a work of art. In its basic structure it is merely a beam of wood or stone, which supports the structure above the fireplace, also providing in the process an alternate space for articles to display. Mostly 10 to 20 inches deep they are now adorned with accessories like mantelshelves and decorative mantel legs.

Types of fireplace mantles

There are various types of Fireplace Mantles available of every shape and size. Here's how they are classified:

According to style:

Fireplace mantles can be divided according to various categories. The most common division of a mantle is according to its style of creation where it can be traditional, contemporary, or colonial. The traditional mantle made of oak or pine tries to give the fireplace a 'period' look to it. The colonial look with the Japanese or Danish style is definitely more 'exotic' in appeal .The most popularly used mantel is of the contemporary style where materials like granite travertine and marble are used.

According to size:

While installing fireplace mantels one should also be careful about the size of the fireplace. For small sized fireplace mantels should be made up of cast iron, hand carved wood, or hand carved marble. Valor wood is often used for large fireplace mantels.

According to price:

The more traditional or colonial styled fireplace mantels are definitely not affordable for the common mass. However one need not be disappointed since paints and laquers can provide the effect of a Romantic, Victorian, or the most sorted Exotic ambience to the fireplace. Sometimes it can all be achieved at a meager price of $150.The more high-priced fireplace mantles are made up of stone, granite, marble and expensive wood.

Easily replaceable:

Installing fireplace mantels have turned out to be a booming business and for those adventurous souls who prefer the do-it-yourself, you can also replace fireplace mantles according to special situations and occasions. One needs to keep handy tools like hammer, drill, wrench, chisel, pencil and nails for this purpose. The pry bar is handy to remove the existing fireplace mantel and mortar is needed to install the new.

The fireplace mantel has evolved from being a thing of necessity into a thing of beauty.

It has now formed the centre of attraction of a room and so should be adorned likewise to bring out the spirit of a particular room.

Fireplace mantels can provide instant beauty, and a degree of coziness and comfort to the room!