Many traditional cottages and old properties have large rustic oak mantel fireplace. Oak fireplace is timeless yet attractive in a modern home. It is now common to find the oak mantels installed by the homeowners for wood burning or multi-fuel stoves, which is the perfect addition to create an old yet new style decoration – fireplace with stove. Are you considering the oak fireplace mantels at your home – here are some helpful tips in choosing the right style for your space along with maintenance that you could follow –
The fireplace is where some hang their television on the chimney breast, display their most favourite wall décor, a large mirror along with enjoying the open fire and warm glow of the stove. It is vital to understand what type of fire you would want at your fireplace. The best one to use with open fires and log burning stoves are the traditional beam made of oak. Styling with oak beam does not need any additional decoratives. The wood oak is the natural material that works best even with the plain fireplace opening, one lined with bricks or stone, or a simple stone hearth.
You may also try for the floating oak beam above the fireplace that would give the appearance of the structural beam embedded in the wall that is plastered around the beam. Consider using a thicker piece of oak for the mantel.
Oak frame structure can also be used as a decorative surrounding the stove to make it a centrepiece of the room for the attraction.
Reclaimed oak is another popular mantel opted by many. It is darker in colour and can be distressed and given a vintage look by using wood stains or paints. Talk to the experts at traditional beam for more ideas on the reclaimed oak mantels.
Maintenance of oak beam
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The oak mantel should be cleaned using a soft cloth. Ensure not to use the water-based cleaners to clean the surface.
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Use the good quality wood oil regularly to protect the wood.
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Use the sealant to protect your oak mantel from beverages spills.
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If you have rustic oak, waxing within the first year of installation is always recommended.
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Use clear beeswax at least twice a month to reduce the ageing process of the oaks.
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When waxing the oak wood, use the lint or fluff-free cloth or rag. Ensure to remove the excess wax with the clean cloth
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Buffing it up also helps to maintain the oak wood mantel.
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Waxing the oak will enhance the natural charm and colour of the beam.
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Ensure not to declutter the oak mantle. Oak mantle in itself is a great attractive centrepiece. It does not need any cluttering decorative.
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Remove the unnecessary items from the oak fireplace beam. It helps to have a clean clutter-free space and will be much easier to clean.
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Resanded the oak surface to clean the water stains or heat mark on the surface of the mantle. Then apply the stain coats before waxing and oiling to assure clean mantle for a longer period.
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