Forecast Fun

If you feel the need for a mantle shelf because you want to display favorite things on it, consider getting a shelf made of cast iron or wood painted a matte finish black. That would blend nicely with the black slate that surrounds your firebox. Also, if you want to “dress up” the firebox, you might consider framing it with molding painted black matte finish. Wood molding is available in many sizes, shapes and styles. I would pick something simple, maybe 6-8 inches wide, and have a trusted, skilled carpenter install it for you. Of course you could to it yourself if you trust you capabilities. Using molding is much less costly than getting a mantle. As a tech for a gas fireplace distributor, that fireplace looks like it may be a either a wood-burning firebox with a gas logset added, or a B-vent fireplace system. The photo with the screen in place inhibits an accurate view, but it looks like there is soot on the firebox walls. If so, I hope that is a “vented” gas logset, which will produce some soot. A logset should be sized by the door opening wide open, not by the opening in the brickwork. Improper sizing will result in soot buildup on the walls. I found this site that could give you some fireplace inspiration: www.skorstenen.com. If this runs on Propane (LP gas)contact the gas supplier for instructions on use and maintenance. IF this is a logset VS a Bvent fireplace it will affect the clearances to any surrounds or decorations above the fireplace, so getting the information, MFGR, model, serial off the gas appliance is critical. Further information can be obtained here as well: www.braendeovnene.com.