|
||
Types of Fireplace Mantel Shelves
There are two types of fireplace shelves:
* Mantel Shelves
* Open Shelves
Open shelves typically flank the face of the fireplace and can add an expansive look as well as lots of extra storage space. However, in order to add this type of shelving you usually have to replace the entire fireplace façade, which can sometimes be time consuming and expensive.
It tends to be easier to add accent by simply changing the fireplace mantel shelf. Most fireplace mantel shelves are made of wood, although it is possible to find mantels made of metal, stone, or tempered glass. If you are interested in less traditional materials, it is best to find a company that can custom design and install your shelf for you. If you want to keep it easy, check online for a new wood fireplace mantel that will fit your needs. Fireplace mantel shelves come in a variety of different sizes, colors and finishes. An unfinished wood fireplace mantel allows you to paint or stain your shelf to fit your décor.
Buying a Fireplace Mantel
Before you purchase your fireplace mantel shelf you will want to measure the area where you would like your mantel to go. Ideally, your shelf should be at least as long as your fireplace. Most shelves range between 50 and 90 inches. It is usually better to buy a longer shelf than a shorter one as it can also very attractive to have a fireplace mantel that extends beyond the edges of your fireplace, as opposed to vice versa. Most fireplace mantel shelves are installed 5 feet off the floor, but the most important consideration is whether your shelf is installed at a safe distance from any flames. You can also install a fireplace mantel as a conventional shelf along any wall to add a flourish to any décor. Wherever you plan to install your fireplace mantel, be sure that it can be secured to wood studs or a brick surface. Most mantel shelves are fairly simple to install and come with installation instructions. However, if you do not feel completely comfortable or do not have the proper tools, you may want to consider hiring a contractor.
Be sure to get a fireplace insert that can handle the fuel you want to burn. The idea is to replace your existing fireplace opening with a unit that can handle hotter burning fuel.
A fireplace can be warm and inviting, but a fire can be extremely dangerous. Many tools you use for your fireplace will be going directly into the fire, so you need to make sure they are fire-resistant and safe for you to handle. Obviously, anything that does go into the fire should be made of a durable material, such as wrought iron. But if you don't like the look of wrought iron, there are plenty of other materials you can choose from that include brass, copper, bronze, nickel, graphite, stainless steel, pewter, and more. In addition, a good pair of fire-resistant gloves will prevent your hands from burning.
Fireplace Tools and Your Home Décor
Safety and functionality are key components to choosing the right fireplace tools for your fireplace, but these tools are also decorative pieces that add style to your fireplace and your home. As a result, you don't want to just choose the first set that you see. There are many different styles available, from traditional to contemporary, that can complement the current design of your home. Use your current home décor as a guide when you choose the look of your new fireplace accessories. If you're looking for something with an antique feel, don't buy the sleek stainless steel fireplace tool set. Wait until you find the set that works for you.
Congratulations on your new fireplace mantel! Many people purchase an unfinished mantel so they can paint or stain it to match the décor of their home rather than having the factory paint or stain it one of their standard colors. I have found that after receiving their new mantel, many people have questions and want advice on the best ways to go about finishing a fireplace mantel.
Painting or Staining?
The first decision that has to be made is whether the new mantel will be painted or stained. Typically this decision is made before buying the mantel as different wood types and materials are used in producing a mantel based on if it will be painted or stained. Stainable mantels use wood types known for their grain and appearance and solid moldings because the wood's grain will be visible. Most people who plan to stain wood want the grain as well as other natural “blemishes” to shine through and would never cover those natural occurrences with paint. Paintable mantels use finger-jointed moldings and less-decorative wood or MDF (i.e. Medium Density Fiberboard) because the wood won't be visible. Once it is painted, it is really difficult to tell the material used—that is why many contractors and homeowners alike choose MDF as an economical alternative to wood.
Installing the Mantel
While it is not really necessary to finish a mantel after you install it, it does make the job easier if you do this while it is on the wall; it is similar to painting any other wood trim. If you finish it and then mar the mantel when putting it up, you will have to repair it. Certainly many people paint or stain their fireplace mantel prior to installing it. It is really a personal preference.
Whether painting or staining I have put together a list of tips below to help homeowners finish their new fireplace mantels.
Tips for Painting Your Fireplace Mantel
o I recommend using a high quality semi-gloss paint in the color of your choice—but any paint that is used for inside house trim is suitable.
o Have different sizes paint brush available. You will want a smaller brush if your mantel has dentil molding so you can get the paint into the small crevices. A larger brush will help you paint faster and avoid stroke marks in the paint.
o Although priming your mantel is recommend, you do not have to. You can simply apply two to three coats of paint.
Tips for Staining Your Fireplace Mantel
o Test your stain color on an inside area of the mantel before you install it to ensure the color is what you want to achieve. (If you will be using a polyurethane finish over the stain, I recommend testing the polyurethane on top of the stain so you can see the final appearance of your mantel.)
o If sanding the mantel, use a fine (220) grit.
o If applying more than one coat of stain, be sure to let it dry before adding the next coat.
o Once your stain is dry, apply one or two coats of polyurethane (satin or semi-gloss is recommended) or tung oil to protect your finish.
Finishing a fireplace mantel is a rewarding experience; once it is done you can see how the new mantel enhances the look of the room.