Fireplaces can look unorganized and out of place without a mantle.
This is one of those finishing touches that offers a long list of advantages. Whether it is protecting a TV from heat, offering a way to decorate the fireplace, or just as an aesthetic addition, the mantle does have a role to place.
However, a lot of homeowners don’t know how to find the right fireplace mantle or what’s needed to install a fireplace mantle. This is why it’s best to ask, how far should a fireplace mantle stick out?
A fireplace mantle should stick out at least 6 inches past the opening of a fireplace. This offers enough space to place items on top of the mantle while providing an aesthetically pleasing touch to the feature.
If done right, the fireplace mantle will elevate this feature in your room and ensure it looks the part.
For those looking to install a fireplace mantle the right way, it’s best to start by measuring everything. You will want to ensure the fireplace mantle doesn’t stick out too much.
Here are a few tips on how to set up a fireplace mantle correctly.
Best Fireplace Mantle (EDITOR’S CHOICE)
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Tips For Installing The Right Fireplace Mantle
1. Measure The Fireplace’s Opening
You have to start by taking the measurements.
Your fireplace is going to have individual measurements that are specific to the room. These measurements need to be written down before you find a new fireplace mantle.
Don’t assume it’s going to be the same for everyone.
You will want to measure the length and width of the fireplace’s opening. This will let you know how big the fireplace mantle has to be.
For the most part, a fireplace mantle should be 3-6″ wider than the edge of the fireplace’s opening. This rule of thumb will go a long way in making sure you install the fireplace mantle correctly.
If you ignore this rule, it’s possible the fireplace mantle will look out of place and might lessen the fireplace’s charm.
2. Center the Fireplace Mantle First
When installing a fireplace mantle, you will want to ensure it is centered the right way.
For example, you want to find the mid-point above the fireplace. This will allow you to get a read on where the mid-point of the mantle is going to go.
These should line up correctly or the fireplace mantle is going to look like it is swaying to one side or the other.
You have to be careful about this step to make sure the fireplace mantle doesn’t look odd.
3. Go For A Depth Of 6″ Minimum
The depth of the fireplace mantle is just as important as any other step in the installation process.
Look to go with a fireplace mantle that has a depth of at least 6″. This is going to look good and will ensure it sticks out just the right amount.
Some people will go for a grander fireplace mantle and that’s fine. It comes down to what your specific room demands physically and aesthetically.
Take the time to go through these options one by one to learn more about what works for you. With a depth of 6″, you can end up with a fireplace mantle that is easy on the eyes and works well with the fireplace’s opening.
4. Choose The Right Material
What material is the fireplace mantle made of?
Look for something that is robust and made of full mantel surround MDF. This is a cutting-edge material that is going to be durable, aesthetic, and easy to install.
Other materials may not take the heat as well and are going to age rapidly.
To avoid this, you should be looking for something that is made of full mantel surround MDF. Once you take the time to install this type of fireplace mantle, the results are going to turn out the way you want them to.
Final Thoughts
How far should a fireplace mantle stick out?
A fireplace mantle should stick out at least 6″ from the fireplace opening. This provides a visually appealing design that allows for additional space on top and doesn’t get in the way of the fireplace’s main role of creating heat.
This is why choosing the right fireplace mantle is essential.
You have to make sure it is set up the right way and looks the part. This includes centering the fireplace mantle and having it stick out the right amount.
Go through the tips listed here and ensure your fireplace mantle is perfect.
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