Frequently Asked Questions About Fireplace Mantel and Surround



Index

1. What is a Carrara Marble fireplace?
2. What are the benefits of using marble fireplaces?
3. How do maintain a marble fireplace?
4.How does marble compare to other fireplace materials?
5.What type of marble are best suited for fireplace?
6. What is the current trend of marble fireplace?
7.Do fireplace add a value to a home?
8. How do I choose a stove for my fireplace?
9.I am an interior designer/architect, can you offer me advice?
10. Where are your marble fireplace made?
11. Where are your marble fireplace made?
12. What is your package for marble fireplace mantel?
13. Can you handle logistics and send delivery to our site?
14. What is the diemension or size of fireplace mantel for my space?
15. Do you supply the matching inner panels for the fireplace mantel and surround?
16. What is a hearth for fireplace?
17. What is fireplace surounds and mantel?
18. Does a marble fireplace need to be sealed?
19. What happens to marble in a fire?
20. Does a marble fireplace need to be sealed?
21. What was the original purpose of a marble fireplace mantel?
22. Is a marble fireplace mantle considered furniture?
23. How Do I Measure for the Right Mantel Size for a Fireplace?
24. Can Fireplace Mantels Be Installed on Any Fireplace?
25. Can Fireplace Mantels Be Installed on a Wall Without a Fireplace?
26. How Long Do Fireplace Mantels Last?
27. What's the Difference Between a Fireplace Mantel and a Fireplace Surround?
28. How Much Do Fireplace Mantels Usually Cost?

What is a Carrara Marble fireplace?

If you’ve been looking at marble fireplaces, you’ve no doubt come across Carrara marble fireplaces and wondered what they are.

Carrara marble is one of the most popular types of marble used in today’s building and decor. It is typically white or a light blue-grey in colour with a soft and feathery vein running through, making it a very attractive option for kitchen worktops, staircases, bathrooms and fireplaces.

While some types of Carrara marble can come with an expensive price tag, there are certain forms of Carrara marble that are incredibly affordable.

This is because the term ‘Carrara marble’ simply refers to any type of marble mined in the area of the same name in Italy. So, there are a few stone types it covers:

• Carrara Marble
• Calacatta Marble
• Statuary/ Statuario Marble.

The latter two feature a much brighter white colour, with a stronger and more varied grain. Carrara marble, meanwhile, is softer in appearance and often less expensive, which makes it perfect for our homes. Carrara is no less beautiful to look at, either – it’s more affordable cost is down to the fact that it is easier to quarry, so generally easier to get hold of.

What are the benefits of using marble fireplaces?

Marble offers exceptional durability, heat resistance, and timeless aesthetic appeal, making it a premium choice for fireplace construction. Its natural thermal properties allow it to withstand significant temperature fluctuations while maintaining its visual integrity.

How do maintain a marble fireplace?

Maintaining a marble fireplace involves professional sealing and periodic cleaning.  Properly sealed marble requires minimal upkeep, and an annual professional sealing can ensure its long-lasting beauty and functionality.

How does marble compare to other fireplace materials?

Marble outperforms materials like granite, ceramic and synthetic options in terms of thermal performance and visual sophistication. It provides unique veining and color variations that enchance any design, while other materials may show wear or color fading over time.

What type of marble are best suited for fireplace?

Popular choices for marble fireplaces include Bianco Carrara for classic look, Nero Marquina for dramatic contrast, and Emperador for warmer tones. Each variety offers unique aesthetic and thermal properties, allowing for tailored design options.

What is the current trend of marble fireplace?

The current trend for fireplaces are exposed brick and natural stone, such as marble. A fireplace made out of marble gives a modern yet chic look to the space.

The natural stone adds character to the room. I recommend styling the fireplace with statement pieces, like vases on the top, advise Chenise Bhimull, an interior designer for ZFC Real Estate. Exposed bricks are still in style depiste the issue of their maintenance. A mix of vintage and contemporary designs for your fireplace is the way to go.

Do fireplace add a value to a home?

Yes fireplace do add value to a home.

Not only will you make back what you paid by installing a fireplace, but it will increase the resale value of your home. Research has shown that adding an attractive fireplace can increase your home's value by 6 to 12%. Others estimate that it could raise it upwards of $12,000. Regardless, the ROI is high. If you are thinking of installing a fireplace. know that it is a worthwhile investment, explains Isaiah Henry, the CEO of Seabreeze Property Management.

How do I choose a stove for my fireplace?

Because they are such an emotive pieces of our homes, it is important to choose a stove which speaks to you and your style most. That said, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind.

Think of your stove as a piece of furniture for heating. A stove is quite a considered investment and one that is likely to remain in the room for many years so choose a classic style that won't date.

Size, too is key. It is important you puchase a stove with the correct output in relation to the size of your room.

It is better to have a smaller stove that you can burn hard rather than a large stove that produces too much warmth as you will end up opening doors and windows to disperse the heat.

I am an interior designer/architect, can you offer me advice?

Yes, if you need any design advise or help selecting material for a project, please email us: [email protected]

Where are your marble fireplace made?

We make all of the marble fireplace we offer in our own workshops in China. We employ a small team of highly experienced stone masons and joiners to make our marble fireplace. They carefully select the marble materials to make each fireplace surround and mantel, use highly accurate saws to prepare the component pieces required and then it's on the bench to lovingly handcraft each mantel.

Can I change the size or material of a fireplace?

Yes, all of our standard marble fireplace design can be made in different size and in any readily available marble and limestone.

Can you make a fireplace to my design?

Yes, Newspace Hospitality | Morestone Granite and Marble specializes in bespoke work and can make a fireplace to any design in any readily available material. 

What is your package for marble fireplace mantel?

Our marble fireplace mantel mostly consists of several individual component and parts which will be assembed in jobsite by professional fireplace installer. They will be packed by fumigated strong wooden crate for international shipment and domestic delivery.

Can you handle logistics and send delivery to our site?

Yes, we can make Door to Door shipment and delivery for your order of marble fireplace mantel

What is the dimension or size for fireplace mantel to fit my space?

Our fireplace mantel is available with three standard dimension and size, they can suit most firebox dimension and room sizes. Choosing the right size fireplace mantel will involves balancing your room size with your firebox. A large dimensional fireplace mantel typically complements a big firebox and helps to fill the space in a larger room. A smaller fireplace mantel and surround is ideal for compact rooms. Making a right decision of the dimension and size of fireplace mantel can help to keep the space feeling balanced and uncluttered without overwhelming the area. Please consult with us for the CAD line drawing and specification for each fireplace mantel to ensure the surround opening will accommodate your firebox.

Custom sizing and fully bespoke fireplace mantel is available with our supply as well, please email us: [email protected] and our sales rep will help guide you with the process of ordering a custom bespoke fireplace surround.


Do you supply inner panels for your fireplace mantel and surround?

Yes, each fireplace mantel comes with optional three matching inner panels which are made from the same stone material and color as the mantel and surround. These inner panels are cut on site to fit neatly around your firebox and come up to the mantel surround.

Filler panels/inner panels/inner surround are the flat pieces that come up to your firebox from the mantel surround. There are 3 inner surround panels with our fireplace mantels to fit around the firebox taht are cut to size in field. These are flat pieces that come up to the firebox. Filler panels are optional and only required as needed.

Dimension A: 10" tall x inner width of the opening x 1" thick
Dimension B: 8" tall x inner width of the opening x 1" thick

All filler panels are typically made from the same stone material and color as the actural fireplace mantel, or diferent stone material as required. We usually send standard sized filler panels to be cut on site by the installer for the best fit.


What is a hearth for fireplace?

A fireplace hearth refers to the floor area directly in front of your fireplace. They are basically made of non-combustible materials like natural stone including granite, marble, sandstone, limestone, travertine and tiles.  Whether you need a hearth depends on your city's building codes and the type of your firebox, it is important to check with your firebox manufacturer, contractor, or installer about local requirement.

The no hearh look is popular today but must always meet local codes. All exposed edges-one front long side and two short sides have polishing edge finishes of eased, beveled and bullnose or customized.


What is a fireplace surrounds and mantel?

A fireplace surround and mantel is a decorative structure that surrounds and frames a fireplace opening, often serving as the focal point of a room. The surround consists of the facing, hearth, and mantel, which are typically made of material such as marble, sandstone and limestone. The facing is the material that covers the area directly around the fireplace opening, while the hearth is the area in front of the fireplace where the fire burns. The mantel is the decorative shelf above the fireplace, often used to display decorative items such as photos, candles or artwork. Fireplace surrounds and mantels come in a wide variety of styles and designs, ranging from traditional to modern, and can be customized to fit the specific design and style of a space. They not only enhance the aesthetics of a room but also provide a practical function by protecting the surrounding walls from heat and soot.

Does a marble fireplace need to be sealed?

Yes, marble is a porous stone. It needs to be sealed on a regular basis in order for it to maintain a strong barrier between it and things that would scratch or stain it.

What happens to marble in a fire?

A natural stone like marble is not considered combustible. Marble is heat resistant, so this is why people have used and continue to use marble around fireplaces. Yet, marble is not as fire resistant as granite. If the fire is hot enough, the marble will change color and become damaged.

Does a marble fireplace need to be sealed?

Yes, marble is a porous stone. It needs to be sealed on a regular basis in order for it to maintain a strong barrier between it and things that would scratch or stain it.

What was the original purpose of a marble fireplace mantel?

A marble fireplace mantel was originally created to catch any smoke or soot coming from the fireplace. Throughout the decades, though, it has evolved into a significant part of home décor, with elaborate designs, including the use of expensive stones, or frameworks that match the rest of your style. Mantels are also considered a special space when it comes to Christmas decorations.

• Is a marble fireplace mantle considered furniture?
  
  

  Even if you don't have a working fireplace (or really, no fireplace at all!), mantels are still added to home décor because of their focal point. Many could consider a marble fireplace mantel a statement piece that can be used as furniture, whether you want it to simply frame an empty wall or give it a proper use, such as a bookshelf. Just make sure to attach it to the wall if there's no fireplace.
  
  

How Do I Measure for the Right Mantel Size for a Fireplace?

• Measuring your available space for the right size of fireplace mantel is an essential part of the buying process. The wrong size mantel can make installing the structure over your fireplace impossible. It will also mean a trip back to the manufacturer, costing you time and money.

  Luckily, measuring your space for a brand-new fireplace mantel is simple. All you need to do is start with the width of the fireplace opening. Ensure you take the measurement a couple of times to double-check the results.

   

  Once you have measured the width, you can move on to the height. Measure everything from the hearth to the desired mantel shelf. Add an inch around the fireplace opening to allow room for the structure itself to stand out.
  
  

Can Fireplace Mantels Be Installed on Any Fireplace?

• As a rule, you can install your brand-new fireplace mantel over any fireplace, whether wood-burning, electric, or gas. These decorative structures are primarily used for wood-burning models, but there are no limitations.

   

  However, we encourage you to consult the manufacturer before purchasing accessories or mantels for your fireplace. With these projects, it’s always better to be cautious.
  
  

Can Fireplace Mantels Be Installed on a Wall Without a Fireplace?

• You can install a fireplace mantel over a wall without a fireplace. In fact, because of how elegant and visually striking fireplace mantels are, many homeowners consider adding them to their homes even if they don’t own a fireplace.

   

  Faux or decorative mantels are fireplace mantels without any purpose other than being a focal point for your home. They add architectural interest to enhance your home’s aesthetic without committing to a proper fireplace.
  
  

How Long Do Fireplace Mantels Last?

• High-quality fireplace mantels can last 10 to 20 years, depending on certain factors that influence their durability. The most important factor is the materials used to manufacture the mantel itself.

  For example, cast stone or marble are more durable than wood mantels and will last longer.

  The climate and temperature of where you live will also play an important role in the durability of your fireplace mantel, especially if the mantel it’s located outdoors.

   

  Dry climates are better for wood-made mantel designs, and cold weather can crack cast-stone models. Keep that in mind when choosing the right model for your needs.
  
  

What's the Difference Between a Fireplace Mantel and a Fireplace Surround?

• A fireplace mantel is a sort of shelf or ledge right above your fireplace opening. It works as a transition between the fireplace opening and the wall above it. It adds protection against fire and heat for walls and decorative elements.

  Fireplace surrounds, on the other hand, are structures on the sides of the fireplace that serve a similar purpose as mantels. They cannot be used as shelves or ledges. However, they greatly impact your fireplace style and room’s ambiance.

   

  Both fireplace mantels and surrounds enhance your fireplace aesthetic while adding a much-needed sense of elegance and luxury.
  
  

How Much Do Fireplace Mantels Usually Cost?

• A fireplace mantel can cost anywhere between $300 and $5,000. This big difference between prices is due to the different aspects that can vary a fireplace mantel’s overall cost. For instance, size and materials can greatly affect your budget.

  The design complexity also influences the final price of a fireplace mantel. Adding engravings and other customization options will increase the overall cost. So, keep that in mind when budgeting for your new fireplace mantel.

   

  Remember to add-in to the budget the price of a fireplace surround and other accessories you’ll need to keep your fireplace working properly.
  
  

What is a standard size fireplace opening?

• The dimensions of a standard fireplace opening often differ based on the type and design of the fireplace. Generally, the height of a typical opening ranges from 24 to 29 inches, while its width can be anywhere between 24 to 36 inches.

  However, for gas fireplaces, widths typically vary from 24 to 48 inches with an opening height specifically set at around 24 inches. These measurements ensure adequate ventilation and heat distribution throughout your home.

   

  It's crucial for homeowners planning a renovation or installation to become familiar with these sizes so that they can accurately fit their chosen fireplace into their existing structure or plan ahead for new construction.
  
  
  

How high should a mantel be mounted above a fireplace?

• Mounting your fireplace mantel at the right height is crucial. If it's too low, you risk potential fire hazards due to proximity to open flames. On the other hand, if it's positioned too high, it may not provide the aesthetic value you desire for your living space.

  Safety regulations suggest that the mantel should be a minimum of 12 inches above the top of the fireplace opening. This rule is also reinforced by The National Fire Code which states there should be at least 6 inches clearance from any combustible materials starting from the firebox opening.

   Following these guidelines will ensure safety in your home while maintaining an appealing ambiance around your fireplace.
  
  What is the code for distance between fireplace and mantel?

• The National Fire Protection Association has set some guidelines for safety when it comes to the distance between a fireplace and mantel. They recommend a minimum of 6 inches clearance between the fireplace opening and any combustible material such as wood or plaster used in mantels.

  This code is crucial to prevent potential fire hazards, especially when operating an open flame. Keep in mind that this is a recommendation, local building codes may enforce stricter regulations depending on your location.
  
  

What is a standard size fireplace opening?

• The dimensions of a standard fireplace opening often differ based on the type and design of the fireplace. Generally, the height of a typical opening ranges from 24 to 29 inches, while its width can be anywhere between 24 to 36 inches.

  However, for gas fireplaces, widths typically vary from 24 to 48 inches with an opening height specifically set at around 24 inches. These measurements ensure adequate ventilation and heat distribution throughout your home.

   

  It's crucial for homeowners planning a renovation or installation to become familiar with these sizes so that they can accurately fit their chosen fireplace into their existing structure or plan ahead for new construction.
  
  
  

  • What is the most expensive style of fireplace mantel?

    The most expensive styles of fireplace mantels are typically made from marble or wood, and often feature ornate carvings that require a skilled professional to install and achieve.
     

    How do I mount my tv above my fireplace mantel?

    To mount your fireplace above your mantel, you'll want to rely on sturdy metal mounting hardware to securely attach the device to the studs in your wall. A television should always be hung directly into the studs, and should be situated at least 12 inches above the mantel to keep it safe from the heat of the fireplace
     

    • How much does it cost to renovate a fireplace mantel?

      The scope and cost of a fireplace renovation can vary great depending on many factors, including the original state of your fireplace and your intended plans. In general, you can expect to spend anywhere between $1,000 and $5,000 to renovate your fireplace mantel.