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The fireplace mantel is the framework surrounding the fireplace, which initially protected from smoke. Since physical fuel sources have been replaced with electric energy, mantels are no longer needed to do this anymore. Electrical fireplaces now use mantels, making them seem more natural and elegant. They come in different forms and substances and have diverse influences.

Get a mantel to use on an electric fireplace heater. Electric energy may be more effective to use in heating homes, especially in winter months, but these fireplaces are still made to resemble the coal fired hearths of old. The attempt to resemble fireplace extends to faux wood and even audio effects.

Take these particulars to mind before you purchase any fireplace mantels. There are limits to how wide or tall the mantel can be. The gaps between stove, smoke pipe or chimney and combustible materials such as wood furniture or carpets, also known as the clearance, is controlled by either building codes or fire codes.

You'll also have prepare the room for fireplace mantel, although not necessarily meticulously. You may or may not make the mantel the center of its given room. Either way, you'll have to accommodate for it in the room, so it's necessary to make certain adjustments. There is also a wide selection available, in terms of different styles and also building materials.

Each material used to make fireplace mantels have their benefits. Cherry wood is seasonally available and considered a premium material. It's the same material used to make violins. Stone as a building material, is distinct from wood. They make for sturdier shelves compared to wood, and will fit in with both wooden and stone fireplaces.

You may prefer a more realistic looking fireplace than is most commonly available. What you want are electric log inserts, which looks like a pile of burning firewood, and uses lighting to give it that burning effect. And then there are the fireplace media centers, which allow for use with TV, video players and game consoles, as well as custom fireplaces.