Fireplace Mantel Covers: Fit, Installation & Design Explained

What is a Mantel Cover?

Fireplace mantel covers are designed to fit over existing mantels, offering a way to update the look of a fireplace without removing what’s already there. Because no two fireplaces are exactly the same, questions about measuring, installation, and fit are common.

This guide brings together everything you need to know, from measuring and installation to working with brick, stone, and uneven surfaces, so you can move forward with confidence.

Measuring & Fit

Getting the right fit starts with a few simple measurements. In most cases, we only need length, height, and depth, plus a couple of extras if your mantel sits on a surround. Our step-by-step guide shows you exactly what to measure and how to handle non-standard fireplaces.

How to Measure a Fireplace Mantel for a Cover

how mantel covers are installed and supported

Mantel covers are designed to feel solid and permanent when properly fitted. They’re supported by the existing mantel and secured using the right method for your fireplace. Our guide explains how installation works and what to expect.

Are Mantel Covers Secure? How They’re Installed and Supported

Brick, Stone & Uneven Fireplaces

Brick and stone fireplaces are rarely perfectly flat. Mantel covers are designed to accommodate these variations. Our guide explains what’s normal, how uneven surfaces are handled, and what to expect during installation.

Can Mantel Covers Be Installed Over Brick, Stone, or Uneven Fireplaces?

Finish & next steps

Choosing a finish is easier once you see it in your own space. Samples let you evaluate wood tone and stain under your lighting before committing. Our guide outlines a simple, step-by-step path from measuring to final selection.

Order color samples

What Affects the Price of a Custom Mantel Cover?

Custom mantel cover pricing is influenced by size, proportions, and construction details. This guide explains what drives cost and why similar-looking mantels can vary in price.

What Affects the Price of a Custom Mantel Cover?

Fireplace Mantel Cover FAQs

Do mantel covers work on all fireplaces?

Mantel covers work in the vast majority of homes, including those with brick, stone, or uneven surfaces. What matters most is understanding the existing conditions and designing the cover to fit them properly.

Can I install the mantel cover myself?

Our mantel covers are designed with easy installation in mind.
The average homeowner has the skill level and tools needed. We include the hardware and easy to follow instructions.

You can view our installation guides here.

What measurements do you need before ordering?

At a minimum, we need the mantel’s length, height, and depth. If the mantel sits on a surround, we’ll also need the surround’s length and depth. Photos are always helpful, especially for non-standard fireplaces.

Can you help confirm my measurements or setup?

Yes. You’re welcome to send measurements and photos, and we’re happy to review them and flag anything that might need adjustment before moving forward.

What if my fireplace isn’t perfectly straight or square?

That’s very common, especially in older homes. Small variations are expected and often not noticeable once the mantel is installed. When surfaces are more uneven, we account for that during design so the finished result looks clean.

Will gaps show behind the mantel?

In many cases, small gaps behind the mantel are normal and not noticeable once installed. When gaps are more visible, there are proven ways to address them—but many installations look great without any additional work.

Do mantel covers need to be permanently attached?

Mantel covers are designed to be secure and long-lasting. Depending on the installation, they may be held in place with construction adhesive, discreet fasteners, or a combination of both. The goal is a mantel that feels solid and intentional once installed.

What is your lead time?

Our lead time is around 2 weeks.

Please contact us if you need your order faster and we will expedite it's production and give you expedited shipping options.

What if my mantel cover doesn't fit?


No worries — we’ll make it right. Every mantel cover is custom-built to your exact measurements, and we take great care to confirm all details before we begin.

But if something doesn’t fit once it arrives, we’ll work with you to fix it quickly. Whether that means adjusting or remaking it.

Your mantel cover is guaranteed to fit beautifully, and your satisfaction is always our top priority.