We have just introduced a few new Custom Wood Mantels. Like all of our Traditional Wood Mantels, these designs are available in standard as well as custom sizes. You may change the Inside Width ‘C’, Inside Height ‘B” or Return Depth ‘G’, to accomodate your firebox size, amount of fireplace facing you would like to show, or room space limitations (see diagram below).

Each design is available in several wood types and optional finishes.

We have recently introduced a great selection of affordable Cast Stone Mantels. Available in 4 Natural Stone colors, each of the twenty designs is lightweight and is easy to install. These mantels can be installed by the average homeowner using construction adhesive.

Matching adjustable facing panels are available. These three piece facing kits fit in a cavity behind the mantel legs allowing them to slide to fit most firebox sizes. Three piece hearths add a great finishing touch.

Why we like these cast stone mantels: I was first attracted to these mantels because of the great looking natural stone surface - I don’t think there is any better (at any price).

We are hard at work putting the finishing touches on a new series of Cast Stone Mantels. This new series features an exclusive group of “Lite” cast mantels that are lightweight, easy to install and offer tremendous value over traditional stone mantels. Each mantel is available “sized-to-fit”, based on your room and firebox dimensions. We are offering four Stone Finishes (Natural, Limestone, Buff and Taupe) as well as three Polished or Honed Finishes (Sahara, Sahara Veined and Chocolate). Overmantels are optional with several to choose from. Check out a sample of these new designs below:

We have a several new wood mantel designs that I can’t wait to share! Note: these are not online yet, so please inquire via phone at 1.888.493.8898 or via email.

These mantels are available in standard and custom sizes in your choice of wood type and finish. Here are a few of the new designs:

Please note, these beautiful sets where designed and propped by good friend and outstanding interior designer Paige Thornton - you can learn more about her by visiting her shop at The French Basket.

One of the most interesting challenges we face is how to describe our Fireplace Mantel products. Ex., when you say “mantel”, are you referring to a mantel surround, mantelpiece, mantel shelf, fireplace shelf or fireplace mantel. Do you use an alternate spelling like mantle? Confusing to say the least!

We find ourselves digging a bit deeper to get to the crux of what the customer is looking for, as a “Mantel” can mean a Mantel Shelf (one piece above fireplace - alt. Fireplace Shelf, Mantelpiece) or Mantel Surround (shelf and legs surrounding the firebox - alt. Fireplace Mantel).

Whatever you call it, we will figure out what you are looking for and deliver the best solution for your needs.

Thin cast stone mantels offer many exceptional advantages including unlimited design choices, many colors and finishes, simple installation and tremendous value. Each mantel has variations in color and texture that captures the true essence of natural stone. Because these thin cast stone mantels are lightweight, preparation and installation are much easier and much less costly than traditional solid stone mantels. Special wall and floor reinforcement is not necessary for the easy installation of this stone mantel. Each stone mantel is fire resistant and allows for zero clearance from combustible material (no space required between firebox and this mantel material or surround facing).

Every day we work with homeowners looking to upgrade their fireplace area with a wood mantel. Wood mantels are a nice choice for remodeling because they offer size flexibility. Opening widths and heights, as well as, return depths can be customized to fit almost any situation. The first step in determining your mantel size is to measure your existing fireplace area. Once you have determined the size you will need, make your style selection. Installation of a fireplace mantel kit is quick and easy and can be done without any special skills or tools.

One of the quickest and most cost effective upgrades that you can make to your home is a new fireplace facing kit combined with a wood fireplace mantel. Facing kits are precut and are made of marble, granite, travertine or slate. The kits are easily installed using construction adhesive and can be placed over existing brick, drywall or almost any substrate. Our wood fireplace mantel kits can be put together in a few minutes and slide over (and overlap) the facing kit. Once the mantel is secured to the wall, you will have completed your project!

Before After

It is our intention to provide useful information about fireplace mantels, fireplace shelves, and fireplaces. We are hoping to share insight on selection, installation, and other useful (we hope) topics. MantelsDirect.com has a staff of friendly experts who help homeowners, builders, and designers size and specify mantels for homes across the U.S. I do not believe there is another company that helps more individuals with their fireplace purchases. This is written for you, so feel free to comment, ask questions and participate.