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In the world of interior design, selecting the best centerpiece for every room in the home is of utmost importance. Fireplace mantels can prove to be the best one for your living room or study. These marvels of artistic genius are eye-catching and often turn up as the topic of conversation in house gatherings. Choosing the right mantelpiece for your home, however, may prove more difficult than setting it up.

The mantelpiece has come a long way from its humble roots in the medieval era as a simple hood that extends beyond a fire pit to guide smoke up a stack. Today's fireplace mantels are more decorative than functional. The term has also changed to encompass other parts of the hearth like the shelf and the frame that borders the firebox.

Clearly, all parts of a fireplace should be fireproof. This is why fireplace mantels comprised mainly of wood need to be soaked in flame retardants before they are assembled. Despite worries over safety, wood stands as a favorite material for mantelpieces since it goes well with practically any room design and furniture.

Since owning a fireplace can prove to be a dream come true for some homeowners, there is really no need to rush headlong into buying fireplace mantels that might not sate your longing. If you're not sure with your choice, don't be afraid to compare notes with someone else who is interested in setting up a fireplace.

Once you are finished with the business of choosing a fireplace mantel, make a list of projected expenditures. Remember that custom-built fireplace mantels cost more than ready-to-install models. If you go with the first option, make sure to factor in labor cost if you need to hire an expert to set up the fireplace.

Electric fireplace mantels are also in vogue. If you're looking forward to flexing your do-it-yourself know-how, there are a few models that are ready to install. These perform the job of and is almost indistinguishable from a conventional fireplace. Can't find a model that matches your home's elegance? Aside from being financially viable, these kits are also highly customizable.

Have you ever felt the need to add a fireplace to your home? Take your pick between custom-built and prefabricated fireplace mantels. If lighting a fire every time you feel a chill isn't your thing, then how about purchasing an electric fireplace mantel and turning up the heat with a flick of a switch.