subject: Wood Fireplace Mantels And Their Benefits [print this page] Wood fireplace mantels have become quite popular. They have succeeded in outshining their counterparts: the fireplace. The wood fireplace mantel will be the most ideal place for any home owner to put their most prized possession on display. Wood is an excellent choice to make and it also brings out the splendor of any wooden furniture in the surroundings.
Wood fireplace mantels are very old. But they are still very popular. They are chosen because of their simple installation procedures. As with all things, there are advantages as well as disadvantages to selecting wood which will be used to build the mantel shelf. Wood is a combustible material; that is why it is advisable that you clear this with the fire department safety codes and also consult building officers. They will advise you about the correct and suitable distance that should be maintained by the wood around your fireplace.
Rooms that are rustic will require the shelf to be made of oak wood. In the Victorian era, mantels made of stone, slate and dark cast iron were very popular. They were replaced by the durable mantels made of oak wood. Oak is without doubt a very superior wood. The outdoor beauty that oak possesses is blended into the persons house. This wood is versatile and that is why it is able to blend in perfectly with other textures that are natural.
For example; brick fireplaces that have been surrounded by marble will look great with an oak mantel. When you think about accessories, wrought iron or brass will be just right.
Be creative and use your skills for decorating the mantels. The oak mantels cost around $1600 dollars. You could also try a wood that is slightly less expensive like fiberboard. But do remember that oak mantles become family heirlooms and last quite long.
