What was the original purpose of a mantle?
A mantel, also known as a fireplace mantel or mantelpiece, frames the opening of a fireplace and often covers part of the chimney breast. It was originally developed in the medieval period for functional purposes, to serve as a hood that would prevent smoke from entering the room, diverting it back into the chimney.
How much does it cost to replace a fireplace mantel?
You’ll get the most design flexibility in a wood mantel that’s built to your specs—a job that costs anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. There are specialty shops that do the work, or, if you’re undertaking a large renovation, your carpenter might be able to do the job.
What were fireplace mantels used for?
The fireplace mantel or mantelpiece, also known as a chimneypiece, originated in medieval times as a hood that projected over a fire grate to catch the smoke. The term has evolved to include the decorative framework around the fireplace, and can include elaborate designs extending to the ceiling.
Do modern fireplaces have mantles?
Indeed, modern fireplaces haven’t killed the mantel; they’ve forced it to evolve. Updated designs and new materials have transformed the most time-honored fireplace element and brought it into to the 21st Century. Here are a few examples of people who took their fireplace mantel to the next level with clever design.
What is a mantle in the Bible?
The mantle was originally a cape worn simply to ward off the cold. The mantle was first mentioned in the Old Testament, as a garment worn by several prophets including Elijah and Elisha. And he saw him no more: and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent them in two pieces.
What is the wall above a fireplace called?
The mantel is the top horizontal protruding shelf/ledge over a firebox. A fireplace mantel spans the top of a firebox and is often supported by legs; generally the deepest and heaviest section of the fireplace.
Does fireplace increase home value?
A homeowner can often recover over 100 percent of the expenses associated with adding a fireplace upon selling their home. According to the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers, adding a fireplace to home can increase the resale value of the home by as much as 6-12 percent.
How far should mantle extend past fireplace?
A mantel should extend a minimum of 3 inches beyond the firebox opening. If the fireplace has facing around the opening, the mantel can also extend 3 or more inches beyond that. Do not guess when sizing the mantel to a room, or the mantel could wind up being too long or too short.
How far does a mantel need to be above a fireplace?
12”
Most housing codes and the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) state that the bottom of the mantel must be at least 12” away from the top of the fireplace box.
How high is a mantle above a fireplace?
Again, “proper” height is relatively subjective to your fireplace, but average or standard fireplace mantel height construction is around 54” above the hearth’s floor. Your fireplace may fit this dimension or it might be on the shorter or taller end of the spectrum when it comes to mantel height above fireplace.
Are fireplace mantels necessary?
Do You Need A Fireplace Mantel? A fireplace does not need to be furnished with a mantel, but a mantel can enhance the look of a fireplace either as part of fireplace surround or as a standalone mantel shelf.
How far does a mantle have to be above a fireplace?
What is the spiritual meaning of mantle?
“[The mantle] is called ‘the garment of incorruption and purity’ [in the text of the Tonsure ceremony], and the absence of sleeves is to remind the monk that he is debarred from worldly pursuits. The mantle is given him in token of the ‘exalted angelic state’ which he assumes”
What is the difference between cloak and mantle?
is that cloak is a long outer garment worn over the shoulders covering the back; a cape, often with a hood while mantle is a piece of clothing somewhat like an open robe or cloak, especially that worn by orthodox bishops.
What is the firebox in a fireplace?
A firebox or firepit is the part of the fireplace where fuel is combusted, in distinction from the hearth, chimney, mantel, overdoor and flue elements of the total fireplace system. The firebox normally sits on a masonry base at the floor level of the room.
What are the sides of a fireplace mantel called?
Fireplace Mantel Shelves Fireplace mantel or mantelpiece is commonly known as a chimneypiece. It started back in the medieval times as a hood project over the fire grate to contain the smoke. This term has developed over the years to include the decorative framework within the fireplace.
Which is better gas or wood burning fireplace?
In the battle for most efficient fireplace, gas fireplace efficiency is always going to win over wood fireplace efficiency. That’s because gas fireplaces burn more cleanly and produce fewer polluting emissions.
Can I mount a TV above a fireplace?
The short answer is – yes. However, to ensure your television isn’t damaged from the heat, care must be taken to ensure heat generated by the fireplace is redirected away from television. There are several ways to do this, such as installing a proper mantel and building an alcove for the television.
