A mirror above your fireplace mantel
reflects the firelight and visually expands your room by channeling light to create or enhance an appealing view. Mirrors offer maximum appeal wherever a reflection of light is desirable. According to Feng Shui principles, it is believed that Chi energy escapes up the chimney, and a mirror brings in the water element to the room (complimenting the fire element) and helps reflect positive energy back into your home.
Placement of mirrors with fireplaces
When using an antique mirror with attached feet, the feet should not extend beyond the edges of the mantel. The mirror glass width should be wider than the fireplace (firebox) opening. Hanging height will be determined by ceiling height and mirror height. A tall, thin mirror hung above a small fireplace is best when the room also has a tall ceiling; this adds verticality to the fireplace design overall and gives focus to the room. For a very tall mirror and a very tall room, work from the ceiling downwards: allow 2 inches below the picture rail and 4-5 inches below the cornice.
When hanging your mirror overkill is the rule of thumb: use anchor screws that you feel sure would hold an object 5 times the weight of the mirror. Besides destroying your mirror, damaging items placed below it or injuring people in the vacinity, there are earthquakes to worry about in some areas, and no matter where you live you must remember that breaking a mirror will cause you 7 years of bad luck.
Mirrors for Faux Fireplaces Pictured at left, we created a faux fireplace by using a small mirror behind the firebox opening. Use a gel fire, candles or electric votives in front of the mirror to create a phenomenal infinity flame effect! Add ceramic logs, coals, river rock or other items to create a custom faux fireplace any where. See our complete line of tiny cast iron combination mantels for more ideas.
Care & Cleaning of Mirrors For general dusting, a soft paint brush works great. When cleaning the glass, remember that a mirror is made by adhering a reflective metallic finish to the back of a piece of glass. Therefore, when cleaning, spray glass cleaner onto a lint-free cloth then wipe from the center outwards to avoid liquid seeping behind the glass, which may cause oxidation of the silvered backing that results in discoloration. While this patina of discolored glass may add to the value of an antique mirror, why cause more damage needlessly?
Reflect your style Arrange groups of collectibles on your mantel, and enjoy the duplicating effect as they're reflected in a low-hung mirror. For taller rooms, hang a larger, vertical mirror closer to the ceiling. Wall sconces, candles and small lamps may be positioned to bring a fiery feel to the room even when the fireplace is not actually in use.