I'm looking to replace my living room fireplace mantel and want to use a light wood that's smooth and has few inconsistencies. I initially considered air-dried oak but was advised it might be tough to get it just right for my dimensions (150cm wide, 15cm depth, 14cm height). Are there better light wood options that would work well for this project?
3 Answers
You might also want to check out some pre-finished mantels. They can be smoother and more consistent than DIY options. If you're looking for something with a modern vibe rather than rustic, consider resawn mantels. You can also protect the wood further by adding a clear coat.
If you can access a quality sawmill, I’d recommend considering gum wood. It has a tight grain, is very white, and comes out looking almost featureless, which could fit your modern aesthetic perfectly.
Quartersawn white oak might be your best bet. It handles variations really well, and any inconsistencies can be smoothed out with wood stain. If you don’t mind some unique patterns, white maple is another option, but keep in mind it can have some figuring that might not meet your consistency requirement. Another route is to build it out and use a veneer to cover it for a sleek finish.
Just to clarify, I'm okay with some pattern variations, as long as there aren’t big cracks or knots.