Fireplace Parts & Terms

Firebox

The firebox is the part of your fireplace that is typically inside the wall. You usually can't see much of it - maybe the back wall. It is part of the home's architecture and comes in direct contact with the fire.

Mantel

The mantel is the top horizontal protruding shelf/ledge over a firebox. A fireplace mantel spans the top of a firebox and is often supported by legs, generally the deepest and heaviest section of the fireplace. It can also be floating, supported by corbels, and appear well above the firebox opening or right in line with the opening.

Mantel Shelf

The mantel may or may not have the depth or design to function as a shelf. It is a must-have for many homeowners and a popular place to decorate. A mantel shelf may be floating or incorporated into a complete fireplace surround.

Surround

Commonly confused with one another, the fireplace surround is an informal name given to the entire assembly of elements: mantel, legs, returns, etc. Ultimately, the surround is what makes up all parts of a fireplace in its entirety. The only exception to this would be the firebox itself.

Hearth

The hearth refers to the horizontal floor area directly in front of the firebox opening. A fireplace hearth is usually as wide as the firebox and the legs combined. Its depth is strictly circumscribed anywhere from 18 inches to 24 inches. Local building codes may govern the depth and acceptable materials for the hearth.

Corbel

The bracket or block that projects from the face of a wall is called the corbel. While physically and visually supporting the elements are placed above it, the corbel is a popular fireplace design element.

Plinth

The lowest part of the leg on a fireplace, often referred to as the "foot," is called the plinth. This decorative transition piece between the leg and the hearth is referred to as the base of the fireplace.