Putting trim around a fireplace is a great way to give a room a nicer, more polished look. To do so, you will need some basic tools, including a hammer and nails. You will also need trim, either wood or decorative crown molding.
Start by measuring the area around the fireplace and cutting the trim to length. After double-checking to make sure the pieces fit, attach the trim to the wall with the hammer and nails. You may need to use an adhesive or mortar to hold the trim in place.
You can then finish the fireplace with caulk, a paintbrush, and your paint of choice to make the trim blend in with the rest of the room.
How do you cut down a mantle?
Cutting down a mantle requires several tools and a bit of precision.
First, you should plan the cut by measuring the division points of the mantle. Once the division points have been measured, use a pencil to mark the locations on the mantle. For safety reasons, wear safety glasses and a dust mask before proceeding.
Next, use a circular saw to cut the mantle at the designated division points. Be sure to hold the saw firmly, and keep a straight edge along the marked lines to ensure a clean, straight cut.
For a cleaner finish, use a hand saw to cut away any excess wood that remained after the circular saw cut. After that, you can use a belt or orbital sander to sand away any rough patches on the mantle.
If the mantle is attached with nails or other hardware, you can use a reciprocating saw to cut through these items. Be sure to remove any remaining nails after the cut is complete.
Finally, use oil-based polyurethane to seal and protect the mantle. Follow the instructions on the package for best results.
How do you finish a fireplace mantel?
Finishing a fireplace mantel can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. The most important part of this project is to ensure that the mantel is properly prepared before applying any finish. This can involve sanding the piece to make sure it is smooth and evenly sanded, patching any defects or holes, and ensuring that there is an even topcoat or primer applied.
Once the mantel is prepared, it’s time to move on to the finishing process. To do this, you will need to select the right type of finish for your mantel. Options can range from paints to polyurethanes to stains.
Choose a finish that best complements the mantel’s colour, material, and overall style. Once you’ve chosen the proper finish, it’s time to begin applying it to the mantel. If you’re using a paint, brush or roll it onto the mantel in even strokes.
If you’re using a stain, use a rag to rub it onto the mantel. If you’re using a polyurethane finish, use a brush and work it into the grain of the mantel. After applying the finish, let it dry according to the manufacturer’s directions and then gently rub it down with a clean cloth or fine-grit sandpaper.
Once the mantel is dry, you can add any final touch-up to make sure the final product looks perfect. Then, admire your handiwork and enjoy your brand new, finished fireplace mantel!.
What is proper length for a mantle?
The length of a mantle is typically determined by the size of the fireplace opening, as well as the desired overall look. On average, the length of a mantle should be equal to the width of the fireplace, though some may choose a mantle that is slightly longer than the width.
It is important to remember that there should be a few inches of clearance between the mantel’s end and the wall or the edge of the fireplace opening. It is generally recommended that mantel lengths should not exceed 8 feet for the best overall look and symmetry.
How far should a mantle stick out?
The amount of mantle that should stick out depends on the size and shape of your fireplace. Generally speaking, the mantle should extend out 6 to 12 inches beyond the width of the fireplace opening. If your mantle extends beyond the width of the fireplace opening, it should also have a slight overhang to create an even more pleasing appearance.
Additionally, mantles should never jut out past where the last row of brick meets the inside wall of the fireplace. Depending on the overall design of your fireplace, an ideal mantle protrusion may be as few as 3 inches, or up to 18 inches.
Be sure to measure and gauge the look of your mantle in comparison to the fireplace opening and plan appropriately.
What type of wood is for a mantel?
A mantel can be built out of a variety of woods, depending on the look and feel you are trying to achieve. Popular types of wood used for mantels include oak, cherry, walnut, mahogany, and maple. Oak is a timeless and popular choice for mantels because of its durability and classic look.
Cherry provides a darker, rich look which can add elegance to a room. Walnut is strong and blends well with almost any decor. Mahogany is another timeless choice that is known for its rich, dark coloring.
Maple is a lighter wood that provides a fresh and contemporary feel. Depending on the existing style of the room, you can use any of these options to create a mantel that will last for years to come.
How far should mantle be above fireplace?
The distance between the mantle and the fireplace should be at least 12 inches, but it may vary depending on the type and size of the fireplace. The distance between the mantle and the fireplace should also be taken into account when considering the height of the mantle.
For example, if the fireplace is tall, the mantle should be higher than if the fireplace is shorter. The mantle should also be located at least 24 inches away from the sides of the fireplace in order to prevent heat from adversely affecting the mantle.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the height of the people who will be in the room when determining the height of the mantle, as people of different heights will be viewing the mantle from different distances.
What is the average depth of a mantel?
The average depth of a mantel is typically between 10 to 12 inches. Of course, this can vary greatly depending on the size and style of your mantel. If you’re dealing with an existing mantel that is already installed, measuring the exact depth can help provide you with a better idea as to whether or not your mantel is average.
The depth of a mantel is also dependent upon the surrounding decorative elements – for example, a fireplace may have a tiled surround that projects out further than the mantel itself. If you’re looking to install a mantel, it’s generally recommended to have a minimum of 4.
5 inches from the wall to the firebox, which will add to the final depth of the mantel. The total mantel shelf should be a minimum of 10 to 12 inches (or more depending on your preference). Taking the surrounding elements and firebox requirements into consideration before you make any purchases will help ensure you are choosing the right mantel for your home.
Should mantel be wider than fireplace?
The width of your mantel should depend on the shape and size of your fireplace. Generally, mantels should be at least six inches wider than the fireplace opening. This allows enough overhang to evenly distribute the weight of the mantel, as well as enough room to properly secure the mantel to the wall.
Additionally, having a wider mantel helps to balance out the length of the mantel, making it look more symmetrical on the wall. If you have a really large fireplace opening, you may want to opt for a wider mantel, so that it is in proportion to the fireplace.
However, if your fireplace is narrow, you may not want to go much wider than the fireplace opening, as it could overpower the room. Ultimately, the decision of how wide your mantel should be is yours to make!.
How high should mantle be with TV above?
It depends on the size of your TV. Generally, the television should be mounted so that the bottom of the television is at eye-level of those sitting in the room. This will typically be around 42” from the floor, but that number can vary depending on how tall the people in your household are.
Additionally, the height of your mantle or shelf should depend on the size of your television, where you would like the television to sit on the wall, as well as the size and look you are trying to achieve for the wall.
It is best to start by determining the height at which you would like the bottom of your television to be placed. From there, you can determine how tall your mantle or shelf should be to achieve the look you are going for.
Can you trim a fireplace with wood?
Yes, you can trim a fireplace with wood. Wood is one of the most popular materials to use in trimming a fireplace as it adds warmth and a classic, timeless look to the room. Depending on the style of your fireplace, a variety of wood materials can be used, including pine, oak, or cedar.
When trimming with wood, make sure that the moldings are sealed and painted in order to protect them from dust, dirt, and water damage. Additionally, it’s important to take into account any short or long-term changes to the area’s climate when selecting a wood material so that the trim can withstand any seasonal shifts.
Depending on the overall look of the fireplace, you can paint the wood trim the same color as the fireplace or use a complementary color to create a more definition between the two. Overall, wood is a great material to use when trimming a fireplace as it creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
How can I make my corner fireplace look good?
There are a variety of ways you can make your corner fireplace look good. One way is to choose a bright and bold color to paint the walls around it, such as a vibrant red or a cheery yellow. This will draw attention to the fireplace and provide a nice contrast to the muted colors the fireplace itself might be.
A coating of white paint or stain on the surrounding walls will also serve to make the fireplace stand out. You can also decorate the mantel with a variety of objects, from art prints and sculptures to plants or candles.
By adding textures such as throws, pillows, and carpets to the area surrounding the fireplace, it will add a warm and inviting feel to the space. Lastly, adding a couple of comfortable chairs or a cozy seating area near the fireplace will ensure that your family and friends will make the most of it.
How do you fill a gap between a wall and a fireplace?
Depending on the size of the gap, there are a few ways to fill the gap between a wall and fireplace.
For smaller gaps, caulk can be used to fill the space. Make sure to use caulk that is designed to withstand heat and smoke. The caulk should be applied in an even layer along the gap, taking care to get it into any small crevices.
Allow it to dry and then it should be ready to use.
For larger gaps, expanding foam can be used. This should be applied along the gap, pushing it into any small crevices. The foam should expand to fill the gap, creating an airtight seal. Once the foam is dry and hardened, it can be either be painted to match the wall and the fireplace, or it can be left in its natural form.
Regardless of the method used to fill the gap, care should be taken to ensure there is adequate ventilation to prevent the build up of smoke within the room.
What is the part around a fireplace called?
The part around a fireplace is usually referred to as a firebox or firebox surround. Generally, the firebox is made of brick, stone, or another masonry material and acts as enclosure for a wood-burning or gas-burning fireplace.
A firebox surround is typically the non-combustible mantel or facing around the firebox, which is available in many different styles and materials and can include tiles, cultured stone, wood, or metal.
The surrounding mantel often serves a decorative purpose in the home and can be customized to any room’s aesthetic. In addition to being a beautiful addition to any room, firebox surrounds also protect nearby walls from smoke and heat.
What is a fireplace fascia?
A fireplace fascia is a trim piece installed around the perimeter of a fireplace. It is generally made of either metal or wood and is designed to cover any gaps between the wall and the fireplace. It adds a decorative element to the room and also provides a neat, finished look to the overall design.
The trim can also be used to hide any imperfections or unevenness in the installation of the fireplace. Fireplace fascias come in a variety of styles and designs to match the décor of a room, from traditional to modern.