Making a faux fireplace mantel can be a great way to add a focal point to your living space and create a stunning display of your favorite items. The best part is that it doesn’t require a lot of materials and it’s very easy to construct.
Here is a step-by-step guide to making your own faux fireplace mantel:
1. Start by measuring the width, length and height of the space you would like to cover. You can use these measurements to purchase precut wood pieces at your local hardware store or lumberyard to construct the faux mantle.
2. Once you have the pieces, sand and stain the wood, so that it looks just like a real fireplace mantel. You can even add a coat of polyurethane for added durability.
3. Cut the wood to fit the length, width and height of the desired mantel. Use a miter saw to get nice, neat edges.
4. Once the pieces are cut, use a drill and screws to secure the pieces together. Once everything is secure and the pieces fit together nicely, you should have a frame for your mantel.
5. Now you can decorate the mantel with your favorite items, such as photographs, books, vases or seasonal decorations.
6. Add a lasting touch by adding trim around the edges of the mantel.
7. Finally, mount the mantel and enjoy your new focal point.
How do you build a floating mantel on a brick fireplace?
Building a floating mantel on a brick fireplace can be a relatively easy process. The first step is to make sure the wall is structurally sound and can handle the weight of the mantel. Measure the width of the wall’s opening and purchase a 2×10, 2×12, or 2×8 board that will fit snugly along the top of the opening.
Cut the board to size and seal the edges. Then, determine the wall’s studs and use a level, tape measure, and drill to attach the mantel board with lag screws and washers. Make sure to fill in any holes left by the screws with wood filler and sand the mantel.
Finally, paint or stain the mantel to match your brick fireplace. Allow the mantel to dry before decorations or other items are placed on it.
Can you use a floating shelf as a mantel?
Yes, you can use a floating shelf as a mantel. This is a particularly attractive and modern option, as floating shelves don’t require any kind of support brackets or other hardware and can be mounted directly onto the wall.
Depending on the size of your fireplace, you may be able to fit a large shelf above it to give the impression of a mantel, or you can opt for a smaller shelf if the fireplace is larger and you don’t have much wall space.
You can find floating shelves in a variety of styles and finishes, so you’re sure to find one that suits your tastes and decor. When installing a floating shelf as a mantel, make sure to use the appropriate hardware for your wall or you may damage it.
Additionally, if your wall is made of drywall, consider reinforcing the shelf and wall with wall anchors so that your shelf doesn’t slip or pull away from the wall. Finally, add decorations such as small frames, candles, vases, or other display items to really complete the look.
What type of wood is used for mantels?
Mantels are typically made out of a variety of different types of wood, depending on the desired look and/or durability desired. Most commonly, hardwoods like oak, mahogany and cherry are used, as these are both visually attractive and long-lasting.
Pine is a softer wood, which is often used in rustic designs, while maple and walnut tend to be used in more modern or upscale designs. No matter which type of wood is used, a stain or sealant may be applied to make it more durable and resistant to warping, cracking and other damage over time.
How thick should a floating mantel be?
The thickness of a floating mantel will depend on what material it is made out of and what its intended purpose is. For a lightweight, purely decorative mantel, a thinner material such as a plywood or particle board will work well.
However, for a mantel that supports a heavier load, a thicker wood material such as oak, cherry, or maple should be used. In general, the thicker the material, the sturdier the structure and the more weight it can support.
Therefore, the thickness of the mantel should be chosen to safely support whatever objects or weight it is intended to bear. It is recommended to consult a professional carpenter or contractor to determine the best thickness for a particular mantel.
What size is a typical mantel?
The size of a typical mantel can vary based on the size of the fireplace, the size of the room, and the desired look. A mantel typically should be roughly 1/3 the width of the fireplace opening, but can also be wider.
The total width of the mantel is typically between 4-8 feet, with the depth ranging from 7-10 inches, and the height ranging between 48-55 inches. Many mantels also feature a projection from the wall of 4-6 inches, although this is primarily for architectural interest and not a necessary feature.
When selecting a mantel, it’s important to consider both the measurements and the overall look, to create a mantel that will fit both your functional and aesthetic needs.
What kind of wood should I use for a fireplace mantel?
When choosing a wood to use for a fireplace mantel, consider the aesthetic and practical value of the material. Hardwoods, such as oak, walnut, and cherry, are popular choices, since they will give your mantel a striking, durable look.
For a lighter look, you could also try pine or alder. Maple is another lightweight yet strong choice, and its light color will look great with both dark and light décor.
For a classic look, pick a darker hardwood such as mahogany or cherry. Both of these materials look beautiful when stained, but they can also be painted for a brighter look. If you want a distressed or vintage look, consider using reclaimed wood or using a mix of different wood varieties.
Taking your mantel from a single slab of wood to a reclaimed art piece can be a great decision for adding character to your space.
No matter what wood you choose for your fireplace mantel, make sure to measure the area around the fireplace before making a purchase. You’ll also want to make sure the wood is properly finished and sealed to prevent splitting and cracking from heat and humidity.
What is the material for a fireplace mantel?
The material for a fireplace mantel can vary depending on the style and design you are going for. Some popular materials include wood, stone, and metal. Wood is often used for a more traditional or rustic look.
Hardwood is a very popular choice as it is durable and can be stained or painted. Stone is also a very popular choice for fireplaces as it adds a classic and elegant touch to a room. Natural stone such as marble, granite, and limestone are the most common and give a more polished look to a mantel.
Metal mantels can also be used for a modern or industrial look, adding a unique and eye-catching effect to a living space. Some metals used for mantels are aluminum, copper, and stainless steel. Depending on the design and look you are going for, choose a material that can make a statement in your home and will be the focal point of your living space.
Should a fireplace mantel be wider than the fireplace?
When deciding whether a fireplace mantel should be wider than the fireplace, there are a few things that should be taken into consideration. First, the width of the mantel should be determined in relation to the size of the overall room.
If the room is large and spacious, it may be beneficial to have a wider mantel. However, in smaller rooms, a mantel that is the same size as the fireplace may be more desirable. Second, the mantel should be proportionate to any other furniture that is in the room.
If the room has other large pieces of furniture, a wider mantel could complement them better. Lastly, the interior design style should be taken into account. Generally, a mantel can be wider than the fireplace, though if the overall style of the room dictates otherwise, the width of the mantel should be adjusted accordingly.
How much weight can a mantle hold?
The amount of weight a mantle can hold depends on the material it is constructed of and the amount of support it has underneath. A mantle constructed of solid wood can usually hold up to 75 pounds, while a mantle constructed of layered plywood can hold up to 135 pounds.
Heavy mantles should always have extra support, such as supports attached to the wall or through the floor, to help disperse the weight. Additionally, when mounting a mantle, it is important to use appropriate screws or nails that are long enough to hold the weight and properly fasten the mantle.
If the mantle is being used as shelf, it is important to evenly distribute the weight and not overload the mantle with too much weight.
How far should a mantle stick out?
The length of a mantle typically depends on the size of the fireplace and the room in which it is situated. Generally, it is recommended that a mantle should stick out bluntly a minimum of 12 inches beyond the fireplace opening.
However, a longer mantle will create a more dramatic impact and allow for more display items to be placed on it. A desirable depth for a mantle can range between 16 and 24 inches, depending on the desired look and feel.
Furthermore, the length of the mantle should be proportional to the size of the room. A large room may require a significantly longer mantle, while a small room may only require a short or shallow one.
Ultimately, the desired length and width of a mantle should be determined by the individual’s convenience and aesthetic preference.
How high should a mantle be above a wood burning fireplace?
When installing a mantle above a wood burning fireplace, the height should be determined by the size of the room and the size of the fireplace itself. Typically, the fireplace mantle should be 4 – 6 inches higher than the top of the fireplace opening.
This will ensure that heat won’t rise up and damage the mantle or the surrounding trim or any documents hung around it. Additionally, the opening of the fireplace should be clear of the mantle by at least a foot, to prevent any damage of the mantle due to the heat of the fire.
If the mantle is too low, it will be within the air drafts caused by the fire, and can cause damage to the mantle or potentially start a fire. It is also important to ensure the mantle is securely attached to the wall, as heat rises and can cause the mantle to become loose over time.
For a final touch, add decorative hearth tiles to the base of the mantle, which are available in various sizes and colors.
What do you put in front of a fake fireplace?
Depending on the type of fake fireplace you have, you may need to put something in front of it to make it look more realistic or to protect the wall behind it and to provide a better viewing experience.
For example, if you have a gas or electric fake fireplace, you can place a firescreen in front of it. A firescreen helps protect the wall behind the fireplace, diffuses the heat emitted from the fireplace, and can also act as an extra viewing barrier just in case small children or pets get too close.
Other accessories such as fireplace tools, a grate, a log holder, and a firewood carrier can be added as well for a more authentic look. A mantel or hearth, either a real or a fake one, is also commonly placed in front of a fake fireplace, as it is typically the focal point of a living space and provides a place for additional decor, such as candles and other small knick-knacks.
How can I make my fireplace insert look good?
Making your fireplace insert look good is a great way to enhance the overall look of your home. Here are some of the changes you can make to make your fireplace insert look great:
1. Paint or Stain the Insert – Painting or staining your insert can go a long way towards making it look good. There are tons of colors, shades, and finishes available that can match your existing decor.
2. Add a Facing – Adding a facing to your insert will make it look more polished. Facing can include tile, stone, brick, or other materials. You can even find pre-crafted facing kits that you can install around your fireplace insert.
3. Install New Accessories – Installing new accessories like door sets, log grate, and decorative panels can really put the finishing touches on your fireplace insert. Finding these accessories to match your existing decor can really customize the look and make your fireplace insert stand out.
4. Install Built-Ins – Depending on the size of your fireplace, you may be able to build shelves or cabinets around it. This gives your fireplace insert a built-in look and can be complemented by shelving, lighting, and even a mantel.
By making a few changes, you’re sure to make your fireplace insert look great and make it an important part of your home’s decor. Good luck!
