Create an inviting focal point in any room by bringing out the hidden potential and true beauty of your fireplace.  A Fireplace Mantel upgrade or update isn’t hard to do and is an easy way to take advantage of the latest style trends.

The Cambridge wood fireplace mantel is a perfect example of a classic, traditional mantel.

Classic styles are almost always the most popular and are available in a wide variety of materials to suit most any home.  Wood fireplace mantels offer great looks depending on the type of wood, the grain of the wood, and can be painted or stained to your specific color needs.  These mantels are available in either mantel shelf or full mantel surround styles.

A Fireplace Mantel Shelf is a great way to instantly update a tired fireplace or add visual interest to a fireplace with no adornment.  Their unique mounting system make them incredibly easy to install, giving you a great new look with very little effort.

Mantel surrounds, on the other hand, are perfect if you are trying to completely update your room décor.  They are available in a variety of materials – wood, stone, or marble.  Wood Mantels can be custom sized to fit almost any pre-existing fireplace.  They can come either fully finished at the factory or unfinished to be painted or stained at the job site.  Mantels Direct offers custom color matching where your mantel will arrive ready to install pre stained or painted to perfectly match your exiting room color.

A fireplace mantel shelf is a perfect alternative to a full three-sided mantel.

Stone mantels are quickly becoming the strongest trend, and for good reason.  You will be amazed at the variety of styles – from clean and simple lines, to classically ornate or modern and bold.  Stone Mantels can also be customized to fit almost any fireplace size or shape. Elegant stone ages gracefully and will add beauty and value to your home for years to come.

Custom Stone Mantel and Overmantel with TV and Media

For another option, adding an overmantel for height and visual interest is a unique way to finish out a fireplace. An overmantel is basically a mantel or additional framing over the lower mantel surround.   A current trend is to incorporate a television to fit within the overmantel.  There are several overmantel styles available in matching material to stone mantels.  Almost any wood or stone mantel can have an overmantel created to match.

Make the most of your fireplace year round by adding decorative touches that draw the eye to one of the largest features in any room.

Stone mantels can make such a design statement in a home in addition to being a very tasteful way of displaying media components. As this picture shows, the flat screen TV and media are incorporated into the stone fireplace mantel in a way that maintains the dignity of the room. In this case, the customer indicated that they would like to accomodate a specific size TV, so we created access for cords and facilitated support for mounting. A “pocket” shelf allowing for access to electricity and other cords was provided for media component based on dimensions provided.  The height, width of both the mantel and the overmantel were sized-to-fit the firebox and the dimensions of the room. The flexibility for sizing and other custom adjustments make the Classic Stone Mantels from MantelsDirect.com a great choice for both new construction and remodeling projects. Many models start under $2000 and are offered with a variety of colors, finishes and options like raised hearths.

Custom Stone Mantel and Overmantel with TV and Media

Upgrading or remodeling fireplace mantels is one of the most cost effective changes you can make to your home. In most cases, the hearth area is focal point and a gathering area for family and visitors. A fireplace mantel remodel typically involves the removal of the existing mantel, measuring for a newer model, selection and installation. Choices can include a wood or stone mantel and can also incorporate upgraded facing material including marble, granite or matching stone. MantelsDirect.com offers a simple step by step measuring and selection process that is supported by friendly experts that are on-call. Most models are offered in “kit” form that makes in easy enough for a homeowner or handyman to install in a stort time using step-by-step illustrated instructions. Consider reviewing our Pinterest channel for a whole host of ideas and before and after installations of fireplace mantels.

This is a very ornate style of cast stone mantel called the Seville.

Classic Stone Mantels are a collection of superb mantel surrounds offered in an assortment of stone finishes and colors.  Each mantel has numerous options to customize it and truly make it your own.  These options include facing, hearths and overmantels.

Because each Classic Stone Mantel is lightweight, preparation and installation is much easier and much less costly than traditional solid stone mantels. Our stone mantels are fire resistant and allow for zero clearance from combustible material (no space required between firebox and mantel) making it the perfect choice for gas, wood or electric fireplaces.

Classic Series stone mantel surrounds are hand-crafted fireplace mantels inspired by European designs. Each mantel has variations in color and finish that captures the true essence of natural stone. You have the option to order these mantels in a standard or custom size. Optional matching surround facing, hearths and overmantels  are available for this collection and are sized to fit your specific situation.
top-selling mantel from series- Claire Mantel- The Claire Classic Stone mantel surround is created using a beautiful composite stone mantel material.

Claire Classic Stone Fireplace Mantel

The Majestic Series of custom size cast stone mantels are a more elegant collection of timeless European mantel designs. The scale and detail of this mantel series is exceptional. We offer a complete selection of surround facing (included), hearths and overmantels that will enhance the mantel and create a unique focal point for your home.
top-selling mantel from series- Seville Mantel-The Seville Majestic Stone mantel surround is created using a beautiful composite stone mantel material.
Builder’s Series- Our Builder Series Kits are an economical way to have a terrific looking stone fireplace and include adjustable legs, header facing panel and hearth. These simple American designs can be installed quickly with little effort. Each mantel has variations in color and texture that captures the true essence of natural stone.  (Franklin Mantel shown in Natural Stone Finish.)
Standard Series- These cast stone mantels are available for immediate shipment in Limestone color. Each mantel comes complete with hearth and adjustable facing panels that allow for firebox openings of 27″ – 45.5″ wide and 27″ – 40″ high. Installation is quick and easy and does not require special skill.  (Craig Mantel shown in Natural Stone Finish.)

Hayden Stone Mantel from ‘Standard Series’ at MantelsDirect.com

Unlike decorative accents such as picture frames or small vases, mantels are major assets and are often the primary showpiece of a room. Because of this, it is important to choose a mantel that fits in with your decor but also makes the right statement. With over 100 mantels and mantel shelf designs, plus a variety of finishes and custom sizing, Mantels Direct is sure to have the perfect fireplace mantel for your home.

Hampton Traditional Wood Mantel, shown in Poplar with white finish, Emperador Marron Marble facing kit

Traditional Wood Mantels Our wood fireplace mantels come in 5 unique collections. The Prestige Collection mantels are characterized by elegant fluting and detailed carvings that pair well with marble or granite facing kits. The Traditional Design Collection includes classic, versatile designs, and the Valueline Collection is composed of value-priced mantels in a variety of basic styles.  We offer adjustable Cabinet and Corner Mantels for unique needs and spaces.  Additionally, the handcrafted Timber Mantel Collection is perfect for a cabin or any rustic decor style.

Marble Fireplace Mantels  We offer 7 high quality imported marble fireplace mantels. Each marble fireplace is hand-sculpted by skilled master craftsmen. They are available in a variety of fireplace sizes and return depths, and they are available in white, black, beige and green marble.  These marble fireplace designs exude culture and class.

Stone Fireplace Mantels  Our stone fireplace mantels are true showpieces and exquisite additions to any room. The Majestic and Classic Series stone fireplace mantels offer over 50 beautiful designs ranging from simple to extravagant, and each is available in 8 stone colors.  They include options for facing, hearths and overmantels. The Builder Series and Standard Mantel Kits include hearths and offer simpler, budget-conscious designs. All of our stone fireplace mantels are lightweight, so installation is quick and simple.

Clark Stone Mantel Shelf

Mantel Shelf Designs  For those who are on a budget, have limited room, or just need extra shelf space, our mantel shelf designs are a great option. We offer traditional wood, Timber, and stone mantel shelves.  Ranging from traditional to contemporary in design, each mantel shelf is easy to install, and each wood and Timber mantel shelf is available in custom lengths.  Many are also available in custom U and corner shapes.

No matter your style and budget, one of our mantels will be a perfect match for your home.  Want more information? View our previous post, and then explore your options at MantelsDirect.com.

In April, we discussed three advantages of a cast stone fireplace mantel.  It is simple to install, is available in a variety of colors and stone finishes, and comes in styles to complement any decor.  Today, we’re going to share the four style series in our cast stone fireplace mantels collection.  Each series in the cast stone mantels collection carries a unique style and personality and has numerous options to make it your own.

Majestic Series The Majestic Series of custom-size cast stone fireplace surrounds is our most elegant collection of timeless European stone mantel designs. The scale and detail of this mantel series is exceptional. The beautiful custom facing, along with optional hearths and overmantels, will enhance the fireplace mantel and create a unique focal point for your home.

Classic Series The Classic Series cast stone fireplace surrounds are hand-crafted stone mantels inspired by European designs. Each stone mantel has variations in color and finish that capture the true essence of natural stone. Optional matching surround facing, hearths and overmantels  are available for this collection and are sized to fit your specific situation.  The Claire stone mantel is the most popular item in this series; it is created using a strong composite stone mantel material and is a beautiful accent to a living room or den.

Standard Series Kits These cast stone mantels are available for immediate shipment in a Limestone color. Each stone mantel comes complete with hearth and adjustable facing panels that allow for both small and large firebox openings. The Standard Series Stone Mantel Kits are great choices for a contemporary decor style.

From the Standard Series, this Craig Mantel is shown in the Natural Stone Finish.

Builders Series Kits Our Builder Series Kits are an economical way to have a terrific-looking stone mantel. These simple American cast stone fireplace mantels can be installed quickly with little effort.  The Builders Series Kits include adjustable legs, header facing panel and hearth.

With the summer renovation season quickly approaching, many homeowners are searching for a way to add beauty and value to their homes. Ironically, the warming of outside temperatures every summer ensures that prospective renovators often overlook remodeling one of the most valuable heating elements of their home, their fireplace. A fireplace mantel upgrade can add thousands of dollars in value to a home and are highly valued by almost every consumer looking to purchase a new house. One of the best ways to add to this value is by installing a cast stone fireplace as part of your summer renovation plans. With this in mind, this post list 3 advantages stone fireplaces can offer consumers who are looking to complete a fireplace remodel.

A Beautiful Stone Fireplace Installation

1. The first advantage of remodeling with a cast stone fireplace is the ease of installation. Cast stone fireplaces are much lighter than traditional stone or marble mantels, allowing for an easy installation that can be completed in a single afternoon. These stone fireplaces are made by utilizing old-world techniques, ensuring top of the line quality is produced with every single unit.

2. The second advantage of these stone fireplaces is the variety of colors and finishes that are available with cast stone. Cast stone fireplaces come in a variety of colors including olive, chocolate and taupe. Depending on your color selection, each mantel is available in a variety of finishes including Natural Stone and Honed. With this many options to choose from, it is clear that cast stone mantels can be customized to fit almost anyone’s interior design taste.

Color Variety Available With Cast Stone Mantels

3. A final advantage of Cast Stone Mantels is the variety of styles that are available to consumers. For home owners looking for a more contemporary or ornate style of mantel, the Majestic Series includes some excellent options. Mantels like the Innsbruck Style fit seamlessly into formal spaces, while units such as the Palermo Style are a great choice for a more modern room. For consumers looking for a more traditional, simplistic style of mantel, the Classic Series of cast stone fireplaces is sure to offer plenty of options that can suit your design needs.

With the variety of colors and styles available and the ease with which they can be installed, cast stone fireplaces can make a perfect summer renovation project for home owners looking to add some value to their home.

Today’s post is about adding style to one of the most important elements of any home, the fireplace. A fireplace is one of the most important focal points that homeowners neglect. However, this does not have to be the case. With a little creativity and the right tools and accessories, a fireplace can be completely transformed into the formal centerpiece of any home.

1. The first fireplace mantel idea that is guaranteed to spruce up your fireplace is the addition of the right fireplace accessories. Although many consumers rarely use their wood burning fireplace, a set of fireplace tools and a fireplace screen can be the perfect accessories to give the appearance of formal luxury to a living space.  Fireplace accessories imply the use of a fireplace even if a homeowner rarely chooses to burn an open fire. The right combination of antiqued copper or wrought iron fireplace accessories can often portray a formal, old world decor that will draw your guest into your living space.

This is a 3 Fold Arched Antique Copper Fireplace Screen

2. The second fireplace mantel idea that is guaranteed to give your living room some style, is remodeling your mantel with cast stone. Unlike traditional stone mantels that can require reinforced floor boards and the installation of reinforced steel supports, cast stone mantels are a relatively manageable weight and can be completed as a DIY project in a single afternoon. In addition to their light weight and ease of installation, cast stone mantels can be ordered in a variety of finishes to fit nearly any space.  With styles ranging from very clean and simplistic to very ornate, a cast stone mantel renovation can help to rejuvenate almost any living space.

This is a very ornate style of cast stone mantel called the Seville.

This is a very simplistic style of cast stone mantle called the Franklin.

3.  The final fireplace mantel idea that can help to rejuvenate a space is the addition of gas, or electric fireplace logs. The fact of the matter is, a large portion of traditional, wood burning fireplaces in America do not get used. Whether they do not like the smell of smoke or the hassle of chopping wood, most Americans avoid using their fireplace because they view it as a hassle. In recent years however, gas and electric log sets have given homeowners a new way to enjoy their fireplace without any of the hassles that traditional wood fires produced. Once a gas or electric log set is installed, a homeowner simply must flip a switch and they can be enjoying the warmth and ambiance of a fire within their very own home. The simple truth is, the best way to spruce up your fireplace, is to use it.

This is an example of an Electric Log Set.

This is an example of a Vented Gas Log Set.

Nothing adds to the permanent and beautiful nature of fireplaces like stone. A cast stone mantel from Mantels Direct offers ease of installation and an appearance that makes your fireplace look as though it has been in place for a hundred years. Adding a stone fireplace is a fantastic way to renovate your home and can add hundreds of dollars in value to what might once have been an ugly, unused corner of your house. With the easy installation and great prices of cast stone, there is no reason consumers cannot have the stone fireplace of their dreams.

There is a common misconception that renovating a mantle has to be a complex and lengthy enterprise requiring the knowledge of a master contractor and the strength of a dozen men. Fortunately, for those of us who have neither of these qualities at our disposal, there is a relatively simple solution that can give our living rooms the renovation needed. Cast stone mantels perfectly merge the look and feel of traditional solid stone while remaining relatively lightweight and easy to install.

Because of the process which is used to create these mantels they remain manageable to install, allowing for a homeowner or handyman to complete the installation.  With a few common household tools a cast stone mantel can easily be installed in a single afternoon. Cast stone provides the perfect balance between strength, durability and easy installation. They are fire resistant and durable enough to hold up any conceivable mantle decoration yet they are easily installed and provide the texture and organic look of stone.

A Beautiful Stone Fireplace Installation

In addition, cast stone mantels also come in a variety of styles, ensuring that they can be used in a large variety of homes and settings. Models such as the Chelsea offer a more subtle style while more ornate models such as the Venetian can add  to the formal nature of almost any living space.

Regardless of the style you choose, there is no denying that a cast stone mantel is the perfect option for anyone looking to complete a stone fireplace renovation.

Fireplace mantles represent the center point of almost every home. Fireplace mantles are considered by many to be a place of gathering, a central spot in the home for a family to gather around the warmth of a fire. They represent in many ways, a time before families gathered around televisions or even radios, a time when conversation drove family relationships. It is hard not to picture family when one thinks of a mantle. We think of stockings hanging above a fire on Christmas Eve or a group of friends chatting about the passing days as they sit in their formal living room. A spot to sit around with the people who are important to us and talk without the distractions of the technological world.

For many people who wish to upgrade their existing fireplace the task of putting in a fireplace mantle seems daunting, but the process can actually be quite simple. When trying to decide what type of mantle one wishes to put into their home the sheer variety of fireplace mantles can be intimidating. What type of material are you interested in, stone, marble or a wood mantel? What style best suits your home? Are you looking for a more contemporary style or a more traditional look? All of these questions can seem daunting, however, a mantle can provide a central focal point for a home that is unique and unlike any other piece of furniture. Fireplace mantles represent a place to gather, which is one of the most important aspects of a home. Above all things, most people want their home to be welcoming and inviting, fireplace mantles are an important component for creating that environment.

There is a common perception that fireplace mantles have to be professionally installed and that installations must involve many hours of hard labor. The fact of the matter is, most fireplace mantles can be installed very easily by ordinary individuals in a single afternoon. Whether you are looking to install cast stone, marble or traditional wood, a fireplace mantle can be installed by following the few simple steps found here.  Not to be forgotten, one of the most crucial aspects of fireplace mantles are the fireplace facing kits. These marble, granite, limestone or travertine accents provide the perfect compliment to any traditional wood mantle.

Heritage Mantle with Red Mahogany Finish and a Verde Oriental Dark Marble Facing Kit