How tall should a fireplace mantel be?

Depends on the size of the fireplace and whether the firebox is at floor level or raised. mantel heights vary depneding on the overall design,but average, traditional mantel shelf height is 52"-58" high off of the hearth. The mantel below is 53 1/2" high.

Consequently, how high should your fireplace mantel be?

about 12 inches

Similarly, how high should fireplace be off floor? 40"-42"

Also, how far should a mantel stick out?

If the mantel will stick out from the wall more than 1 1/2 inches, the height between the top of the fireplace and the shelf must be 12 inches or more. Always check with your local planning and building office for code requirements.

How wide should the fireplace mantel be?

For a quick reference, a 36-inch fireplace will probably have a mantel width of 48 inches. A 42-inch fireplace will probably have a mantel width of 54 inches. The mantel should not be so wide that it reaches anything else, like a wall, window or door.

23 Related Question Answers Found

Does a fireplace need a mantle?

First, you should place a mantel over or around your fireplace. A fireplace mantel will block some of the heat rising up from your fireplace and help to keep your TV cooler. Your fireplace owner's manual should specify how far away your fireplace needs to be from combustible materials.

What is code for fireplace surround?

The National Fire Code dictates that any combustible material (e.g., wood mantel or similar trim) must be at least six inches from the firebox opening. An additional inch of clearance is needed for every 1/8 inch the combustible material or trim protrudes.

Should you mount your TV above fireplace?

It's not advisable to mount a TV above a fireplace because excess heat and electronics don't mix. The area above the fireplace is often warmer than other wall surfaces in your home. Consider this: A gas fireplace can generate 20,000 to 35,000 British thermal units (BTUs) of heat per hour.

How do you protect a fireplace mantel from heat?

Use the mantel heat shield when you have small clearances between the top of your fireplace and the bottom of your mantel. The Mantel Heat shield will prevent your mantel from becoming to warm. It will also prevent any discoloration to your mantel due to heat.

Can your TV be wider than the fireplace?

TV's are taller than the most popular linear fireplaces, so they already give the impression of being top-heavy on the wall. If your TV is being mounted directly above the fireplace, make sure your fireplace is a little wider than your TV.

What is a standard mantel depth?

A depth of 7 inches is ideal for most mantels, as it allows plenty of room to accommodate decorative objects. Keep in mind that the top and the sides of the mantel should be the same depth.

What is the best wood for a fireplace mantel?

Fireplace Mantel Wood Options

When looking for durability, consider a very dense wood like Cherry, Walnut, Mahogany, or Reclaimed Antique Heart Pine. When looking for affordability, consider woods like Poplar, Maple, or Oak.

How thick is a mantle?

The mantle is the mostly-solid bulk of Earth's interior. The mantle lies between Earth's dense, super-heated core and its thin outer layer, the crust. The mantle is about 2,900 kilometers (1,802 miles) thick, and makes up a whopping 84% of Earth's total volume.

How do you install a heavy wood mantel?

Slide Over Bolts Method

Locate the studs behind the brick, stone, or faux veneer.
Drive 1/2in lag screws through each of the studs.
Have a helper support the mantel while you mark the location of the support rods on the back of the beam.
Apply construction adhesive into the holes.
Slide into place, admire, and enjoy!

How far above a gas fireplace should a TV be mounted?

If in Doubt, Do a Little Math: Depending on the height of your mantel — or if you don't have one, the top of the fireplace — hang the TV four to twelve inches above. If your mantel is higher than four feet, then hang the TV no more than six inches above.

Does a hearth have to be raised?

The perimeter of the hearth should be clearly defined by either using a raised edge or by raising the level of the hearth in relation to the floor. The hearth should extend at least 150mm out from the stove at the sides and 300mm in front.

Can a gas fireplace sit on the floor?

This depends on your fireplace. If you are installed a new fireplace in an area you will probably have to do at least some work on your floors. Most types of flooring are safe unless they are immediately in front of the fireplace. Gas fireplaces need noncombustible flooring.

What is a standard fireplace opening?

A typical 3-foot-wide fireplace opening should only be 29 inches tall. The firebox depth should be 16 inches (not including the thickness of the decorative brick that faces the fireplace). The distance from the floor of the fireplace to the bottom of the damper should be 37 inches.