A mantel can add character to the home just as much as the fireplace that is adding the warmth and ambiance. A home needs a mantel for decoration, but also function. They can create a barrier between your fireplace and people around it, as well as hold items on your mantel such as picture frames or even holiday decorations. When it comes to a rustic fireplace mantel, it can add even more character you just cannot get with a simple or more modernly styled fireplace mantel.
A rustic fireplace mantel can be considered a few different materials. Some will see a rustic mantel as something made from wood, while others may see it as stone. Though the taste preferences will vary, one thing is for certain that rustic fireplace mantels will add some character and décor to your room. When looking for a wooden rustic fireplace mantel, the wood should be darker in color and preferably aged to look older or even antiqued. More often than not these rustic wooden mantels will have specialty carvings and other decorations that add to its overall fee. When looking for stone fireplace mantels a consumer should look out for large stones that are placed in no particular pattern, but also have wooden accents. Almost like you would see in a ski lodge, if that helps you picture it enough. Rustic generally means something that looks handcrafted and not machine manufacturer. It should add a comfort feel to the overall look it provides, but also still serve its main function.
Most rustic fireplace mantels will range anywhere from $200 to over $5000. The cost of your mantel will greatly depend on the materials used, overall size and accent features that are placed on the mantel itself. Wooden mantels typically cost less than those made with stone and the type of stone can greatly affect the overall price of your mantel as well. Brick work is typically cheaper than those mantels that are made with limestone or other types of stone. When purchasing your mantel, ensure that you measure the overall area in which you wish to place yours and be sure that you have the proper opening for your already installed fireplace. If you are purchasing a new fireplace altogether, then you will still want to pre-measure to ensure that your fireplace will fit in the designated area.
A rustic fireplace mantel can be purchased just about anywhere home goods are sold, including over the internet. Though when purchasing such a heavy item on the internet the consumer will want to consider the overall shipping costs with their new mantel. More often than not these types of mantels will have to be shipped using freight, rather than standard shipping; therefore a consumer could be looking at a heftier price tag. When shopping online visit retailers such as Fireplace Mantels, Mantels, Inc., Amazon, EBay, Overstock, Northline Express and Log Home Shoppe. If you are going to do your shopping locally, visit local retailers such as Sears, JC Penny, RC Willey, Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart or even ACE Hardware Superstore.
A fireplace is a great way to add character to your room, but the mantel can add just as much character, if not more. Always ensure you have the right measurements prior to purchasing your pre-made unit and if you are doing your shopping online, ensure you know just what you are getting prior to actually purchasing it.