Fireplace Mantel Designs
Mantels add character to the fireplace and enhance the appearance to the room to display the taste and style of the individual homes. A rustic mantel can easily transform a family room. Whether you select a shelf mantel or an entire surround mantel you change the feeling of the room.
Fireplace mantels were originally columns with carvings to add the decor of the fireplaces. Over time they became a means of adding style and flare to the appearance of the fireplace.
The wood of choice for most mantels is mahogany. Walnut and elms are other choices to recreate a pleasant look. Wood mantels are versatile and durable while the newer materials include metal plaster glass and concrete. Designers have begun using marble and tile for the materials in mantels.
Depending on the style and size of the mantel they can be quite expensive especially when the mantels are a custom design. To save money on the mantels there are different styles and materials available at most home centers. There are kits that can be customized that include shelves and ornamental designs or decals. This is one of the leading options for many people trying to save money but who also want to have a stylish mantel.
The kits or ready-made mantels they are sometimes constructed out of fiberboard with prices $250 to $350. The mantels constructed out of concrete and plaster cost more yet are still within the budgets of many people who want a more sturdy and durable mantel. Stone and wood mantels are more expensive with the lower prices beginning about $750 for the smaller and less ornamental fireplace mantel design models. The prices of mantels in the stone and wood materials can easy reach in the thousands of dollars when adding more decoration and detail.
To get a better idea of the cost for your mantel you can contact a contractor or inquire at your local home improvement center. The main factor is quality and budget for the mantel to be exactly what you want to accent your fireplace.
