Fireplace Mantels: From a Kit

Reviewed by:
Rosemary Thornton

With some home carpentry skills, you can save money on this solid wood fireplace mantel. The mantel comes from a kit that includes all the millwork, shop drawings and section details. The lumber is not precut, so you'll have to do your own measuring, slicing, dicing and mitering.

If you're not so sure of your carpentry skills, you can also order the mantel preassembled. Choose from red oak or paint grade lumber.

Custom-designed and specially-sized mantels are also available.

Mantel kits are available up to 80: wide and 64" long.

Kit price range is $209 to $578, depending on size and wood (August 2005).

Preassembled mantels range in price from $910 to $1,320 (August 2005).