Block Mantel Ideas

Paint It

• One of the quickest and most common ways to update a block mantel is to paint it. Stick with paint that is heat-resistant and friendly to the material you're painting, such as concrete paint to paint concrete. To create a bold statement, choose a striking "neutral" shade, such as black or white, or a bright color like red. If you'd prefer your mantel to blend into the space, go with a color that matches your walls. If the surface is smooth, a roller is usually your best option to apply the paint, but for uneven surfaces, like brick, you may want to use a brush.

Block It

• If the old block mantel is no longer your thing, try using a different type of block. You can stack wood blocks to create a fireplace or mantel with rustic appeal, or place bricks to cover an old, basic concrete fireplace. But, be careful. Blocks are notoriously wide materials, and using them will create a larger fireplace footprint. So, before you begin, make sure you have room for the addition in your space.

Cover It

• If you can't stand your block mantel or fireplace a second longer, cover it with another material, such as slate, tile or a combination of materials. For a quick project, purchase a prefabricated mantel from your local home improvement store. Tile the area around the opening of your fireplace; then, install your mantel. According to the "This Old House" website, a basic covering project can be completed properly in two days or less.