A mantel can make, or break, the entire fireplace. How do you know if you have a winner or a loser when it comes to a mantel? Check out our handy list of do’s and don’t’s about the mantel!
- If you have a modern-type house, consider having a mantel made of welded metal. A welded metal mantel is also ideal for a “masculine” space, such as a man cave.
- For a “mission” home – also known as a Craftsman home, or an Arts & Crafts home – mantels need to utilize a great deal of stone and wood. The wood need not be “perfect” or flawless, as this style of home focuses on the natural state of the materials being used.
- Classic, Victorian style homes serve best with a natural wood mantel, and the most common material used is oak wood. However, if you choose to go with this style of a mantel, it’s best to have this installed by a professional, because if installed incorrectly, this mantel can easily be set ablaze.
- If you do decide to use wood for your mantel, you should also make use of a corbel, or a wood bracket, for additional décor ideas.
- Mahogany, of course, is the most traditional of the woods to use for a mantel. However, thanks to the scarcity of the wood, it is also the most expensive option when going for a wood mantel. This style of mantel is best reserved for a Southern traditional type home.
- Finally, in order to really make good use of the wood surrounding the mantel, consider the appropriate application of wood appliqués.
