Are oak mantels really all they’re cracked up to be?

Oak mantels are thought of as the crème de la crème of all fireplace mantels. But why are they held in such high regard and would an oak mantel be the best option for your home?

We take a closer look…

Oak mantels were a common feature in older properties

Many older houses have oak mantels above their fireplaces. Think grand inglenook fireplaces with imposing oak beams.

You’ll very rarely hear anyone saying they want to rip out their inglenook fireplace. This is because these features, often hundreds of years old, fit in with both traditional and modern decor. They provide a cosy centre point in a room, with the natural wood of the oak mantel adding a feeling of warmth and homeliness that just can’t be recreated with man-made materials.

What’s more, the fact that these oak beams have lasted for so many years, demonstrates why oak mantels were, and still are, the best choice for your fireplace.

Oak is tough and long-lasting

Oak, a type of hardwood, is extremely durable and strong. Thanks to the solid and versatile nature of this wood, it has been used for everything from ship building to furniture making for many years.

One of the great things about installing an oak beam above your fireplace, is that you know that it should last for a long, long time into the future, something quite novel in our throwaway society.

Oak mantels come in many different shapes and sizes

Oak beams can be cut and shaped to suit any space. If you want a more rustic look, you could go for an aged oak beam above your fireplace. These go really well in a traditional home but also look really stunning as a contrast in more modern spaces.

Alternatively, you could go for a classic oak mantel with clean, straight edges, which just oozes elegance.

You can also choose a depth depending on what you want to display on top of your beam.

Oak mantels can be finished to suit any style

It’s not just the shape and size that you can choose. Oak mantels can be finished to blend in with your decor or create a sharp contrast with it.

If you’re looking for a more modern take on the traditional oak mantel, you could opt for a Pale Grey or White finish. For the more traditional look, you could go for Jacobean.

With an oak mantel, you can add a fantastic feature into your home in no time at all. If you’re installing a wood burning stove ready for next winter or want to makeover your existing fireplace, the durability of an oak mantel, cut, shaped and finished to suit your space, is the way to go.

Don’t know which oak mantel to pick for your fireplace? Get in touch today, we’d be more than happy to help you choose!