The Dos and Don’ts of Having Shelves Above Fireplaces

A fireplace provides warmth and a cozy ambience to a room. Adding shelving above it can create unique design opportunities and offer valuable display space. However, placing items near a heat source requires careful planning to ensure safety and preserve your belongings. Properly installing and using these shelves is critical. Follow along to discover the dos and don’ts of having shelves above fireplaces so that you can build a beautiful and secure feature in your home.

Consider Heat and Clearance

Before installing shelving, you must understand how heat from your fireplace affects the area above it. Heat rises, and the wall directly over the fireplace can become hot. You must adhere to the fireplace manufacturer’s specifications for minimum clearances for combustible materials. Here are some tips for ensuring safety before installation:

• Check your local building codes and the fireplace manual for clearance requirements.
• Use a thermometer to measure the temperature on the wall above the mantel during operation to ensure it remains within a safe range.
• Choose noncombustible materials for the shelf itself if it will be close to the heat source.

Neglecting these clearances can create a fire hazard and damage the items on your shelf.

Choose the Right Materials

The materials you select for your shelf and its supports are crucial for safety and longevity. Wood is a popular choice for its aesthetic appeal, but it is combustible. If you choose wood, place it well above the minimum clearance height.

For a secure and clean installation, floating shelf brackets provide strong, hidden support that works well with various materials, including thick wood mantels or noncombustible shelves. Other material options include metal, stone, or tile, which offer fire resistance.

Select Decor Items Carefully

Once you have safely installed your shelf, you must choose your decorative items with care. The heat rising from the fireplace can damage sensitive objects. Avoid placing valuable or irreplaceable items such as family heirlooms, original artwork, or delicate electronics on the shelf. Instead, opt for decor that can withstand moderate temperature fluctuations, such as ceramic vases, metal sculptures, or stone objects. This approach to having shelves above your fireplace ensures your display remains beautiful without risking damage to your cherished possessions.

Secure Your Style Today

By following these guidelines, you can safely and beautifully design the area above your fireplace. Proper clearance, correct materials, and smart decor choices will create a stunning and secure focal point in your room.

Ready to start your project? Explore our range of USA-made brackets to find the perfect support for your fireplace shelf.