SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2019 | SOUTHERN HOME 104BY ROBERT C. MARTIN- Whilenational,state,andlocalbuildingcodes must be
confirmedbeforesizinga mantelfora masonry-built fi replace,
combustiblematerials(suchaswood)should be kept at least
sixinchesfromthefireboxopening. - Thesecodesalsoclarifyadditionalclearance needed for trim or
areasof a mantelthatprojectoutwardfromthe fi rebox edges and
top,aswellasacceptablehearthmaterialsand dimensions. - Forprefabandfactory-builtunits,pleaseconsult the
manufacturer’smanualandinstallationinstructions for proper
clearancesandmantelplacement.
Fireplace Pointers
chips into a mold,” says Lindsay. “The finished product is
an exact match of the antique piece, with the original artist’s
tool marks preserved.”
While the overall appearance and scale of a fireplace is
important, it must further be sized to fit the height and
volume of the room it occupies. Generally, the smaller the
room, the less embellishment is devoted to the mantel wall,
because the fireboxes tend to be pared down as well. Larger
and vaulted spaces often benefit from an overmantel, which
is an extension above the mantel shelf that can consist of
paneling, plaster, carved stone or wood, or a continuation of
the chimney material. “Other things to consider are whether
you’re planning to place artwork, a TV, or a mirror above
the mantel,” says Lindsay. “Ample wall surface must be
allocated for those things as well.”