Find the Right Fireplace Mantel for Your Space

Fireplace mantels are available in a wide variety of materials, sizes, profiles and finishes. The right choice depends on more than appearance. Your fireplace type, required clearances, wall dimensions, ceiling height and surrounding materials all influence which mantel can be installed.

Nova Fireplace & Stove can help you compare:

• Wood fireplace mantels
• Non-combustible fireplace mantels
• Metal fireplace mantels
• Floating mantel shelves
• Full mantel surrounds
• Rustic beam mantels
• Contemporary mantel designs
• Traditional architectural mantels
• Custom-sized mantels
• Mantels for linear fireplaces
• Mantels for gas fireplaces
• Mantels for electric fireplaces
• Mantels for wood-burning fireplaces

We will help you select a mantel that complements the fireplace without overpowering the room or appearing undersized.

Wood or Non-Combustible Fireplace Mantels?

One of the most important decisions is whether to install a traditional wood mantel or a non-combustible mantel.

Wood Fireplace Mantels

Wood mantels provide natural warmth, character and architectural detail. They are available in styles ranging from simple floating shelves to elaborate full surrounds with columns, trim and decorative molding.

A wood mantel may be right for your project when:

• You want authentic wood grain and texture
• Your design is traditional, transitional, farmhouse or rustic
• The fireplace permits the necessary combustible clearances
• You want a painted, stained or unfinished mantel
• You prefer detailed millwork or architectural molding
• You need a custom full-surround design

Because wood is combustible, it must be installed at the required distance from the fireplace opening. The required clearance depends on the fireplace, mantel projection and applicable installation requirements.

Non-Combustible Fireplace Mantels

Non-combustible mantels are designed for installations where heat exposure or reduced clearances make traditional wood less practical. Depending on the product, they may be made from cast concrete, proprietary masonry materials or metal.

A non-combustible mantel may be a strong choice when:

• The mantel must be positioned closer to the fireplace
• You want to lower a television above the fireplace
• You have a large or linear gas fireplace
• The fireplace manufacturer specifies non-combustible materials
• You want a wood-beam appearance without using real wood
• You prefer metal, stone or cast architectural finishes

A product being non-combustible does not eliminate all installation requirements. The fireplace manufacturer’s specifications and the mantel manufacturer’s instructions must still be followed.

MagraHearth Fireplace Mantels

MagraHearth specializes in handcrafted non-combustible fireplace mantels made from patented lightweight concrete. Its mantels are molded from reclaimed beams and architectural materials to reproduce the character of aged wood and stone without using combustible wood.

Lexington Hearth Fireplace Mantels

Lexington Hearth offers wood and non-combustible fireplace mantels inspired by Kentucky architecture, historic timbers and traditional craftsmanship. Its non-combustible Bluegrass Collection reproduces textures taken from century-old beams and stone, while its architectural collections include traditional and contemporary profiles.

Professional Fireplace Mantel Installation

A fireplace mantel must be securely mounted and properly positioned relative to the firebox or appliance. Installation becomes more complex when the project includes stone, masonry, tile, metal studs, hidden blocking or a television.

Nova Fireplace & Stove can coordinate the steps required for a complete mantel project, including:

1. Evaluating the fireplace and surrounding wall
2. Confirming fireplace-manufacturer requirements
3. Measuring the installation area
4. Reviewing combustible-clearance requirements
5. Recommending compatible mantel materials
6. Selecting the appropriate size and projection
7. Coordinating the mantel with stone, brick or tile
8. Preparing the wall or mounting surface
9. Installing the mantel securely
10. Completing qualifying fireplace refacing or masonry work

We can install a mantel as part of a new fireplace project or incorporate one into a renovation of an existing fireplace.

What is a fireplace mantel?

A fireplace mantel is the shelf or architectural frame installed above and, in some designs, around a fireplace. Mantels may be made from wood, metal, concrete, cast masonry or other approved materials.

What is the difference between a mantel and a mantel shelf?

A mantel shelf is a horizontal shelf installed above the fireplace. A full mantel or mantel surround typically includes the shelf plus vertical legs, columns, panels or other architectural components around the opening.

How high should a fireplace mantel be?

The correct height depends on the fireplace manufacturer’s requirements, the mantel material, its depth and applicable installation standards. There is no single height that is appropriate for every fireplace.

How far must a wood mantel be from a fireplace?

Required clearance varies by fireplace type and mantel projection. Deeper combustible mantels generally require more clearance. The fireplace installation manual and applicable requirements must be reviewed before installation.

Can a mantel be installed above a gas fireplace?

Yes, provided the mantel complies with the gas fireplace manufacturer’s clearance and material requirements. Some installations require non-combustible materials within a specified area above the appliance.

Can a mantel be installed above an electric fireplace?

Yes. Electric fireplaces often provide greater design flexibility, but the mantel must still comply with the appliance manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Can you install a mantel above a wood-burning fireplace?

Yes, but combustible clearances and chimney or firebox requirements must be observed. Wood-burning fireplaces may expose surrounding materials to substantial heat, making correct placement especially important.

Are non-combustible mantels safer than wood mantels?

Non-combustible mantels can be installed in applications where combustible materials are restricted, but they must still follow all fireplace and mantel installation requirements. “Non-combustible” does not mean the mantel can be positioned anywhere.