Measuring for a Fireplace Mantel and Surround

1. Measuring for a Fireplace Mantel and Surround

2. A fireplace surround and mantel help to anchor a fireplace and give it more presence in the room. It can reinforce the architectural style of your home or highlight its interior design concept, making the fireplace the focal point of your space. Traditionally, most mantels were made from wood, but these days, many homeowners are upgrading to elegant concrete fireplace surrounds and mantels. How to Measure for a New Fireplace Mantel Before installing a new fireplace, it is important to measure your existing firebox and the general dimensions of the wall where the fireplace is located. Dimensions to capture:

3. Length and height of the fireplace opening • Distance from the bottom of the opening to the floor (or to the hearth if you have one) • Width of the metal or brick fireplace facing around the opening • Height, length, and depth of your current mantel shelf (if you have one) Next, measure the walls around your fireplace to determine how much space you have for a new fireplace surround and/or mantel. Many homeowners upgrade their existing Room dimensions to capture:

4. Distance between the fireplace opening and the nearest wall on both sides. • Total height of the wall where the fireplace is located. • Distance between the fireplace and the nearest windows and doors. • Distance between the fireplace and light switches, plugs, and other obstructions. Site measurement is included in the cost of our custom concrete fireplace surrounds and mantels. This will be done by our technical team before crafting our concrete products to ensure accuracy and precision. Fireplace Clearances and Building Regulations

5. The National Building Code of Canada stipulates that combustible building materials must be placed at least 150 mm from the fireplace opening. This rule restricts the type of mantel and surround you can install when working with wooden elements. As Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) is non-combustible, not only do you have more freedom with the design and placement of your fireplace surround but you can also ensure that this is a safer and more durable option for your home. Unlike wooden fireplace surrounds or mantels, GFRC will not burn even if it comes in contact with embers from the fire or when it is exposed to flames.

6. Choosing the Right Fireplace Mantel Size Once you’ve recorded the dimensions of your living room and fireplace opening, it’s time to start planning. Don’t let the size of your existing fireplace surround restrict you – playing with width, height, and depth often makes for more interesting interiors. You can do a quick Pinterest search or browse our gallery for design inspiration and contact us to discuss your options with a specialist from our team. Design questions to ask yourself: • What do I want to display above the fireplace? • Mantel shelf or no mantel shelf?

7. Do I want an area for firewood, fireplace tools, and accessories? • Do I need to consider fireplace doors, vents, or screens in the design? • How much will a protruding mantle affect floor space in the room? Get in Touch for More Advice Sculptural Design has been designing and installing concrete fireplace mantels in Calgary since 2002. We work with architects, interior designers, builders, and homeowners to sculpt custom fireplace surrounds that bring living spaces to life. For more information or to get a quote, please don’t hesitate to contact us