A shelf above a fireplace is often referred to as a mantel. This is typically a shelf or ledge that is relatively wide and extends outwards above the fireplace. It’s usually meant as a decorative ledge that can be used to display photos, decorative objects, or other items.
Many homeowners like to use mantels for seasonal decorations, such as a wreath for the winter holidays or pink hearts for Valentine’s Day. Mantels also provide a great place for a large clock, a favorite painting, or any other decorative item you may want to add to the room.
What do you put in space above a fireplace?
When considering what to put in the space above a fireplace, there are a variety of options to choose from. If you are looking to create a focal point in the room, you may want to consider hanging a large piece of art or a decorative mirror.
A painting or photograph of a landscape can also create an eye-catching design, and you can further customize it with a frame that matches the rest of the room’s decor. You may also want to hang multiple layers of artwork in different sizes for a more creative look.
Another idea could be to hang a television or display a piece of pottery. If the space is a little more narrow, you could hang shelves and stack various items, such as books and plants. Finally, adding floating candles or a statement chandelier can also create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
What is a fireplace fascia?
A fireplace fascia is a decorative board that is installed directly above the opening of a traditional masonry fireplace. It can be made out of a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and stone, and is used to frame the fireplace and enhance its appearance.
Fireplace facias provide balance and visual depth to your fireplace, adding to its visual appeal and creating a central focus to the room. Additionally, they can be an effective way to draw attention to a focal area of a room, while also providing a thermal break between the opening and any combustible materials around it.
What does a fireplace lintel look like?
A fireplace lintel typically consists of a header and shelf section. A header is a horizontal beam that supports the weight of the wall or structure above it while a shelf is a ledge cut into the stone or other material above the fireplace that allows mantles, decorations, and other items to rest on top of the fireplace without damaging the structure.
Depending on the type of fireplace and the style of the house, fireplace lintels may be made from an array of materials, such as brick, stone, marble, or even metal. Commonly, the lintel will be made from brick mortar or concrete and will be carved to blend in with the texture of the existing walls around the fireplace.
The lintel may be further detailed with decorative carvings and detailing. Some lintels are also made from cast stone, which gives a smoother finish and more decorative appearance, although this is generally more expensive.
What is a lintel mount?
A lintel mount is a type of building mounting system specifically designed to provide support and stability to an architectural structure. This type of mounting is commonly used to help stabilize the structure of the building by allowing for the lintel to act as a type of beam that is placed across the opening in a wall or ceiling to make it more secure.
This is commonly used for door frames, window frames, and also for providing stability for awnings and railings. The lintel mount typically consists of two components, namely a steel lintel and a hollow steel frame that is attached to the lintel.
The frame then acts as a secure base for the item to be mounted onto, allowing the item to be securely attached without causing additional stress to the lintel. This type of mounting is ideal for providing the necessary support for structures that are particularly prone to movement or instability due to larger openings, such as door frames and window frames.
It provides a safe and secure method of ensuring that the correct amount of support is present at all times.
Do you need a lintel above fireplace?
Yes, a lintel above a fireplace is generally recommended for added support depending on the type of fireplace being installed. A lintel is essentially a horizontal support that helps to distribute the weight of the fireplace’s structure and masonry above it.
Without a lintel, over time the unsupported weight of the fireplace and its masonry could cause structural weakness that could lead to possible cracking and failure of the fireplace material. The lintel adds support so that in the event of a fire or extreme temperatures, the heat is spread across the entire surface and not just concentrated on one area.
Lintels also provide additional support for any decorative materials that may be applied to the surrounding masonry or used as part of the overall design of the fireplace. Depending on the type of fireplace, there may be requirements for the width and length of the lintel that should be adhered to for the best structural integrity.
It’s also important to consider the type of material used for the lintel and whether or not it is rated for the type of heat and fire produced from the fireplace.
Can I use a shelf as a mantel?
Yes, you can use a shelf as a mantel. Mantels are generally considered to be a traditional, decorative element that adds warmth and architectural detail to a room, but they don’t have to be. With a bit of creativity, a shelf can be transformed into a beautiful, functional mantel.
If you’re working with a shelf that is lacking in structural detail or aesthetic interest, consider adding some paint or wallpaper to the background for color and texture. Finish it off with some molding around the edges of the shelf to create a more traditional mantel look.
Also, consider adding a shelf above the mantel for a nice touch.
You can also decorate your new shelf mantel with artwork, small plants and flowers, picture frames, and other decorative pieces. Small items and plants can draw the eye upward and add a nice touch of color and texture to your mantel.
Just be sure not to overwhelm the space and keep it clutter-free.
By following these tips, you can turn an ordinary shelf into a beautiful mantel that is sure to make a statement in your home.
How do you make a homemade fireplace mantel?
Making a homemade fireplace mantel is a relatively easy process that can save money and add a personal touch to your home.
To begin, you’ll need to measure the area around the fireplace. This will be important for determining the size and shape of the mantel. You’ll also need some tools, such as a miter saw, drill, level, sandpaper, wood screws, wood glue, wood shims, and a finish of your choice (paint, stain, etc. ).
Next, you’ll need to choose the material for your mantel. Wood is the most common material used, though you could also look into using stone or brick. The size of the fireplace will dictate the size and shape of the mantel, so make sure to measure before purchasing the material.
Once the material is acquired, you can begin measuring and cutting it. Start with the base, which will likely be the largest and most visible piece. Cut the sides and top to the desired size and shape.
Sand the edges and make sure all the pieces fit together with no gaps. Secure the base with wood screws and wood glue as needed.
Next, you can choose to add upper support or a decorative molding to the mantel. Again, measure and cut the pieces needed, making sure to secure them with wood screws and wood glue. Once the pieces are secure and the mantel is shaped to your specifications, you can begin staining, painting, or finishing the wood.
Once the finishing touches are complete, you can mount the mantel onto the wall. Make sure to use appropriate anchors and measure the location of the mantel carefully before beginning the installation.
With a few simple tools and techniques, you can create a beautiful and unique fireplace mantel that adds a brilliant touch to your home.
How wide should mantel shelf be?
The width of a mantel shelf should depend on the size of the space it is intended for. For a standard 6-8 foot mantel shelf, you should aim for a 36” to 48” shelf width. For a more decorative or statement mantel shelf, you can go wider – up to 60” or even 72”.
However, wider shelves may not fit in all cases, depending on the amount of wall space available. If your wall space is limited, you may want to consider a narrow shelf of just 18” to 24” wide. This can provide a decorative touch without overpowering the room.
What can I put in my unused fireplace?
There are a variety of creative ways to give new life to an unused fireplace. For example, you could display art or framed photographs in a unique way by mounting them around the fireplace opening. Installing a bold and interesting wallpaper around the fireplace adds texture and visual interest to the space.
If you are looking for something a bit more functional, you could mount shelves above the fireplace for storage and display, or install an electric fireplace insert to keep the space warm and create a cozy atmosphere.
If you would like to plant some greenery, you could hang a terrarium filled with air plants inside the fireplace, which will add a beautiful touch of nature to the room. Ultimately, the possibilities of what you can put in an unused fireplace are endless — let your imagination be your guide!.
How do I build my own built in shelves?
Building your own built-in shelves is a great way to add extra storage or display space to your home. Though creating custom built-in shelves may seem intimidating, it’s actually a fairly straightforward project.
Here are the basic steps:
1. Plan ahead. Decide where you want the shelves to go and measure the space. Take into account any baseboards or molding, windows, or other obstacles that may affect where your shelves should be placed.
You’ll also need to figure out what type and size of shelves you’ll need.
2. Build the frame. The frame for your built-in shelves should be either made out of wood or drywall. If using wood, secure the two side boards in place using screws or nails and cut the top and bottom supports to size.
If using drywall, make sure to measure and cut the pieces accurately and use drywall screws to secure them in place.
3. Cover the frame. Cover the frame with either drywall or plywood. Secure any seams with drywall screws and caulk the seems with construction adhesive. Sand the surface before painting or staining the shelves.
4. Add finishing touches. If desired, add trim pieces to your shelves to give them a more polished and custom look. You can also use brads to secure the trim in place. Finally, if you choose, you can add shelf brackets or supports to the shelves to give them extra stability.
By following these steps you can create beautiful built-in shelves to suit your style and needs. With some careful planning and attention to detail, you’ll have your own custom built-in shelves in no time. Good luck!.
Good luck!.
DO built in shelves add value?
Yes, built in shelves can add value to a home. The most popular locations for built-in shelves are libraries, kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms. Built in shelves allow for an efficient use of the wall space, providing storage capacity and display space without taking up too much floor space.
Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, they also make the space look larger and more inviting. Other advantages to built in shelves include the ability to customize the design and incorporate organizational features that suit the individual.
Building in shelves can also provide extra lighting and creative accent pieces. Furthermore, custom built-in shelves can add character and even increase the overall value of a home during a sale.
Are built ins worth it?
Whether or not built ins are worth it really depends on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost effective way to add storage and organization to your home, then built ins may be a good option.
They can provide a customized, aesthetically pleasing look and feel to any space, while also giving you much needed storage and organizational solutions. In addition, built ins can last for years, require little or no maintenance, and may even increase your home’s overall value.
On the other hand, built ins can be expensive to purchase and install, and often require professional assistance to get the job done. Depending on the materials and size of the built ins, the price can quickly add up.
Therefore, it is important to consider both the cost involved and your specific needs before deciding if built ins are worth the investment.
How much does a built in shelf cost?
The cost of a built in shelf can vary considerably, depending on the type and size of the shelf, the materials used and the complexity of construction. A basic shelf can cost anywhere from around $100 to several hundred dollars.
A more intricate built-in shelf might cost upwards of $1,000 or more. It’s also important to consider other factors, such as installation costs, which can increase the overall cost of a built in shelf.
Labor rates for custom built-in shelves can range from around $50 to $200 per hour, depending on the complexity of the job. Finally, additional materials such as drywall, trim, and paint can increase the total cost of the project.
Ultimately, the best way to get an exact estimate of the cost of a built in shelf is to consult a local contractor who can properly assess the job and provide an accurate estimate.
Are built in bookshelves outdated?
No, built in bookshelves are not outdated. They are a timeless choice for a home design that can also provide a great storage option for books, magazines, records, photos, art, and even electronics like record players and video game consoles.
Built in bookshelves can be modernized with different colors, materials, and finishes. Depending on the type of style that someone is looking for, such as rustic, modern, or classic, built in bookshelves can provide the perfect finishing touch to any room.
Another great thing about built in bookshelves is that they can also be customized to be flexible and accommodate different amounts of books and items. Not only that, but when used in combination with cabinets and drawers, they can offer much more storage space than a stand-alone bookcase.
With all of these features, built in bookshelves are a great way to decorate and utilize a room in any home.
