How to Mount a Fireplace Mantel With Electric Insert
A mantel can help make your fireplace appear more elegant. It's a great spot to hang up decorative items that reflect your style.
It is important to determine the height of the mantel in order to keep it from appearing awkward in the room. Take into consideration the place where the TV is installed and the style.
Mantel Shelf
Mantels are a classic feature of homes everywhere and can add a nice touch to your living room. They are commonly used to display family treasures, such as vases, pictures and trophy collections. They can also be used to hang seasonal decorations such as Christmas ornaments and lights. The ideal mantel will blend into the style of your home and create an attractive focal point in the room. Installing your fireplace mantel using an electric insert at the correct height will ensure it appears its best. There are several factors to take into account when determining the mantel's height.
The first thing to think about is the size and design of your fireplace mantel. There are a variety of styles and materials to choose from, some are more suitable for higher or lower mounting. For example, natural stone and concrete can be mounted lower since they're not flammable materials. Wood, however, must be mounted higher because it's combustible.
The fireplace installation manual will provide you with the height to place your mantel. The manual will list the recommended heat clearances and the maximum distance you can place the mantel away from the fireplace. You should also check your local building codes to learn more regarding heat clearances and other installation requirements.
Once you've decided on the height of your mantel, it's now time to prepare the cleat that will hold it to the wall. Find the width inside the mantel and then use that measurement to determine the cleat's length. To ensure that the cleat is positioned correctly, cut a 2- by 4-inch cleat based on this measurement.
Once you have the cleat installed you can then nail it to the wall using a power drill and the masonry screws. It is also recommended to use trigger clamps to secure the face board so that it doesn't move as you attach it to the side pieces. After you've secured your face board to the pieces, you can apply a coat or two of wood stain. As you stain it be aware that each piece of unfinished wood has its own distinct characteristics, and will accept stain differently than any other piece.
Fireplace Corbels
There are many ways to decorate the brick fireplace with an open grate, a wood mantel and a brick. Utilize eucalyptus branches or other greenery to add height and freshness to your fireplace. Other options include making an ornamental wreath or hanging small framed works of art.
Corbels are an excellent way to improve the appearance of your home. They are available in various styles and are made from different materials. Some are made from wood, while others are constructed of limestone or touchstone. They are sold in pairs and are adorned with a decorative finishes. They typically are light brown color but they can be stained or painted to match the décor.
It is important to note that the corbels will support the weight of your mantel not the grate, or the fireplace itself. Therefore, it is important to read the fireplace manufacturer's instructions and understand all installation requirements. It is also an excellent idea to research the local building codes.
To set up a fireplace mantel that has corbels, first mark the position of the mantel against the wall using a pencil. Then use a level to connect the marks, and draw an outline of the cleats' placement. Once you have the lines marked then screw the cleats in. The angled edges will join and allow you to hang the mantel on them.
When it is decorating a fireplace, simple designs work best. You can create a sophisticated style by using only one color. You can also repeat patterns. This will bring a sense of symmetry to your mantel.
Displaying family photos is one of the most simple and popular ways to decorate your fireplace mantel. The display of your most memorable memories in your home will make it easier to remember them. Other options include displaying framed works of art or shells from the beach. Be aware of the height of the decorative items and place taller items at the ends and shorter ones at the middle. This creates an even appearance.
How to install a Fireplace Inset
If you'd like to enjoy the appearance of a traditional open fireplace without the hassle and expense, you can install an electric insert in your existing chimney. This will not only improve the energy efficiency of your home, but also reduce the amount creosote in your chimney (a substance that is flammable and can cause a fire in your chimney). Check with your local fire inspections department before beginning. You may be required to hire a professional installer in order to ensure that the installation is completed properly. This will protect your home from a fire risk.
If not, it's simple to complete if you have basic carpentry skills. First, choose the power outlet that will be easily reached by the fireplace unit. Measure the size of the fireplace opening and the mantel of the fireplace to determine which type and size fireplace insert will work best. Then, order the necessary materials for the job. If you're installing a fireplace on a wall then you'll require frames made of boards such as spruce, pine or fir that are the same thickness as the walls in your home. You'll need drywall and non-combustible sealant for the frame and drywall.
After the frame is finished it's time to start working on the actual fire. If you are using a freestanding fireplace, place it on the mantel. To prevent damage to tile and hardwood surfaces, you must place a piece or cardboard on the hearth to protect them when moving the unit. This is particularly important for older fireplaces made of masonry, which often have loose mortar and bricks that can be blown away while working.
You'll require a chimney liner if you want to install an insert in an existing masonry fireplace. wall mounted electric fireplace with mantel will stop fumes and smoke from entering the room through the fireplace opening and will aid in sealing your home throughout the year. Follow the directions of the manufacturer before you begin to learn how to set up your chimney and fireplace insert.
Installing an insert in an existing fireplace that is masonry requires more work than an installation mounted on a wall because you'll have to construct an enclosure for the chimney. This is a job that which any homeowner can finish if they carefully follow the directions and take their time.
Decorating the Mantel
A fireplace mantel can be decorated in a way that it appears as an art work. Mirrors with glitter and window frames that have been distressed, rows of scented candles and more can turn the area into a beautiful focal point that can elevate any style of decor. Some homeowners use the area to display small items such as old bottles ceramics, or antique clocks.
Decorating the space around an electric fireplace with plants and flowers is another popular option. Plants that trail like devil's ivy or Boston ferns can bring natural beauty to the room and help draw attention away from the artificial flames of the fireplace. Other options include mistletoe or succulents.
If you prefer a more contemporary look, consider hanging large pieces of sculpture or abstract art on the mantel. This kind of decor is especially effective when combined with an unobtrusive color scheme.
Rustic farmhouse art has also been gaining popularity in recent times. It's typically defined by whites and pastels which look stunning on a fireplace's mantel.
Be sure to keep the space clear around the electric fireplace. You can create a striking design by arranging a few objects in a clean, organized manner. You can choose one of the lanterns that are different sizes for your electric fireplace mantel. They can be filled in different ways, from candles to vase filler. The lanterns themselves can also be decorated with simple ornaments, such as bows or ornaments.
Electric fireplaces are a great option for those looking to decorate their fireplace mantel in a stylish and practical way. This kind of fireplace offers warmth in winter months, and a warm ambience without heating in the summer. It's also simple to set up and is equipped with a remote control that allows you to alter the flame's color and speed.