Oak beam mantels have been around for many years helping to showcase traditional fireplaces and give that rustic old world feel. In recent times homeowners installing wood-burning and multifuel stoves have also begun to use oak beam mantels to enhance the look and feel of the surrounding area. In many cases an oak beam mantle offers a kind of old versus modern appeal when it comes to the look of a wood-burning/multifuel stove. When you bear in mind the different sized mantels available not to mention wood variations and finishing touches, there really is something for everybody.
Different sized mantels
In theory it should be possible to get an oak beam mantel cut to any size although there are a number of standard sizes which include:
Oak beam mantel small fascia
The dimensions of an oak beam mantle with small fascia design are height 90 mm with a depth of 62 mm. While they are not as imposing as of the larger beam sizes they do offer the ability to integrate a surround to highlight your wood-burning or multifuel stove.
Oak beam mantel panel fascia
The oak beam mantle panel fascia is best described as a flat panel with dimensions of height 170 mm and a depth of 38 mm. This is the type of wood effect which can be placed on top of existing materials to give a new look without actually making any changes to the existing structure.
Oak beam mantel standard fascia
An oak beam mantle with standard fascia has dimensions of height 170 mm with a depth of 70 mm. It is higher with a greater depth than the small fascia while a similar height to the panel fascia but more depth. For many people this is the standard look and when you bear in mind the different variations of wood available, not to mention the number of finishes, it can be extremely striking.
Oak beam mantel small beam
While some people prefer the fascia type oak beam mantle, which is very easy to fit, there is a growing trend towards the traditional beam look. The oak beam mantle small beam has dimensions of height 140 mm with a depth of 90 mm. Is not difficult to see why this particular style is popular because it not only draws out the existing fireplace but also guides your attention towards the stove.
Oak beam mantel square beam
As the name suggests, the oak beam mantle square beam has dimensions of height 140 mm with a depth of 140 mm. This is the type of beam already fitted in many fireplaces up and down the country and has always been very popular. To many the square beam shape is the more appropriate whether looking to decorate an existing fireplace or highlight the existence of a wood-burning/multifuel stove.
Oak beam mantel large beam
As the name suggest, the oak beam mantle large beam is slightly higher at 190 mm with a reduced depth of 90 mm. If fitted correctly it can give the impression that the beam goes further back in the wall than the eye can see. To many people this is the ultimate design feature when looking towards oak beam mantels.
Oak beam mantel extra large beam
While many stove owners prefer the subtle approach to highlighting the surround of an existing fireplace and/or the location of a new wood-burning or multifuel stove, others are more adventurous! There is of course a grander more eye-catching approach which is achieved using an oak beam mantle of an extra large nature. This type of mantle has dimensions of height 190 mm with a depth of 140 mm and a look which will grab your attention as soon as you enter the room!
Oak beam mantel sizes
While there are many different mantle heights and depths to choose from it is also possible to have the length of mantel beam cut to your specific requirements. In general there are three standard sizes which should fit the vast majority of fireplaces to perfection. They vary in length with the following sizes:
• 1050 mm (41.5 inches)
• 1200 mm (47.25 inches)
• 1350 million m (53.25 inches)
The standard sizes will allow you a degree of discretion to get the exact look and feel you are after. Even though a wood-burning or multifuel stove will immediately become the focal point of any room, there is no harm in showcasing them!
Different types of wood available
To many people an oak beam mantle is simply a piece of wood but it is even possible to choose a particular grain and colour. Air dried oak comes in many different colours and textures which include:
• Arched oak
• Waney oak
• Scalloped oak
• Round oak
• Square oak
• Reclaimed oak
• Sawn oak
• Brushed oak
• Aged oak
• Distressed
When you consider the individual beam heights and depths available, with varying lengths and different colours/textures, there really is something for every occasion. But hold on; let us now take a look at the different treatment options available.
Oak beam mantel treatment options
You’ve chosen the height and depth of the beam, the most appropriate length as well as the look and feel, from traditional square through to reclaimed, aged and distressed. The various types of treatment available can also have a significant impact on the impression and style of your oak beam mantel. Among some of the more common treatments available are:
• Danish oil
• Tung oil
• Teak oil
• Clean satin lacquer
• Oak lacquer
• Clear oak wax and polish
• Antique pine wax and polish
• Light oak wax and polish
• Rustic pine wax and polish
• Spanish mahogany wax and polish
• Medium brown wax and polish
• Dark oak wax and polish
• Jacobean wax and polish
• Teak wax and polish
• Tudor oak wax and polish
• Walnut wax and polish
• Ebony wax and polish
Obviously not all of the treatments available will be applicable for all types of oak beam mantels but they can certainly embellish an already eye-catching look.
Summary
The task of integrating an oak beam mantle with an existing fireplace or new wall feature is obviously a specialist task but extremely rewarding. As you will see from any fitted oak beam mantle, they highlight the new and the old world as well as traditional and contemporary styles. These mantels are also extremely durable and can effectively be customised to fulfil all of your requirements.