The fireplace mantel is the framework surrounding the fireplace, which initially protected from smoke. Since physical fuel sources have been replaced with electric energy, mantels are no longer needed to do this anymore. Electrical fireplaces now use mantels, making them seem more natural and elegant. You can get mantels in so many divergent styles, as well as building materials.
Mantels are great to use with electric fireplace heaters. Electric energy may be more effective to use in heating homes, especially in winter months, but these fireplaces are still made to resemble the coal fired hearths of old. Many models have fake firewood, and some even simulate the burning sound within.
Before getting any fireplace mantels, you do have to look into these requirements. For one, the dimensions of the mantel are regulated. What I’m referring to here is clearance, the distances stove, smoke pipe or chimney and combustible materials such as wood furniture or carpets as regulated by fire or building codes.
Aside from that, buying a fireplace mantel requires careful room planning. The mantel can be designated the most important piece of furniture in the room. Either way, you’ll have to accommodate for it in the room, so it’s necessary to make certain adjustments. You have a broad spectrum of choices, between variations across traditional styles and materials.
The building materials for fireplace mantels affect them dramatically. For one, cherry wood is highly valued and but not always available. Violins, among other valued items, are made with it. If you don’t prefer wood, you can get stone instead. They make for more stable and durable fireplace shelves, and match both wooden and stone fireplaces.
But you can get a better looking fireplace if you opt to do so. What you want are electric log inserts, which looks like a pile of burning firewood, and uses lighting to give it that burning effect. And then there are the fireplace media centers, which allow for use with TV, video players and game consoles, as well as custom fireplaces.
The fireplace mantel is the framework surrounding the fireplace, which initially protected from smoke. Currently, mantels do not have to perform this function anymore, especially since electricity based heating systems are more prominent and consistent. Nowadays, they are used to decorate and enhance electrical fireplaces. Use mantels to make your electric fireplace heater more attractive and useful. Buy and install separate electric log inserts, that physically appear like chopped firewood, and also replicate the flame with proper lighting.
- Wyatt Fisk