Custom wood mantelpieces add individuality and charm to your fireplace, giving your home a decorative piece of wood that will be admired for years to come. Custom made means that you make the decision to select a style and finish that suits your home décor.
Carpenters have been designing and building wooden fireplace mantels since the 14th century. Back then, most hand carvings took months to finish. Today they are manufactured at a much faster rate, yet the same designs are still used. They range from a simple ledge shelf to an elaborate pedestal ledge that spans an entire wall.
Mantel Shelf
A mantel shelf consists of a top, approximately 12″ deep, with molding placed below. Crown molding is the norm for this application, however styles that are more rustic may have layers tiered wood trim. Decorative corbels added below serve as supports. A vertical skirt placed behind the corbels gives the mantel a thicker look, while more crown molding cut between the corbels adds even more ornamentation.
pedestal fireplace surround
The pedestal mantel begins as a mantel shelf, often adding a second step of crown molding. Legs attached on each side extend to the ground or hearth. These legs are often decorated with flutes, inlays, or raised panels. Between the legs and below the shelf, a panel is added creating a frieze, which gives the shelf its thickness. Corbels are often added to the top of the legs, just below the shelf, adding more detail and character.
If you’re thinking of purchasing a custom wood mantelpiece for your home, do some research on the various styles available. Start by searching the internet for pictures, then call your local cabinetmaker for more ideas.
