How Far Should a Mantle Stick Out?

A mantle should extend at least six inches beyond the face of the fireplace opening, but no more than 12 inches. This will provide adequate clearance for the fire and help to prevent heat damage to the wall or mantel shelf. If your mantel shelf is deeper than 12 inches, you may need to add a spacer to keep it from protruding too far.

One of the most common questions we get here at The Fireplace Place is, “How far should my mantle stick out?” It’s a great question, and one with no easy answer. There are a few things to consider when determining how far your mantle should extend.

First, think about the size of your fireplace. A large fireplace will need a larger mantle to balance it out. Conversely, a smaller fireplace can get away with a smaller mantle.

You don’t want your mantle to look disproportionate to your fireplace. Second, consider the function of your mantle. Is it purely decorative?

Or will you be using it to display pictures or other items? If you plan on using it for decoration, you’ll want to make sure it’s wide enough to accommodate whatever you plan on putting on it. If functionality is more important to you, make sure the mantle is deep enough so that items don’t fall off.

Finally, take into account the style of your home. A traditional home might look best with a more classic mantelpiece, while a contemporary home could handle something more modern and sleek. Ultimately, you want the style of your mantle to complement the rest of your décor.

Now that you know all this, how far should your mantle stick out? It really depends on what works best for you and your space. But following these guidelines should help you make the perfect choice for your home!

-How Far Should a Mantle Stick Out from the Wall

A mantle should stick out from the wall about 6-12 inches. This allows for proper ventilation and prevents the wood from rotting.

Electrical plug on is not Flush with wall or mantel

Conclusion

A mantle should stick out about six inches from the wall on either side, and about a foot in front of the fireplace. This will give you enough room to decorate the mantle without it looking cluttered, and also provides a safe distance from the fire.