Due to our new insert we had to do some mantle modifications. Well currently the mod was to remove it... still trying to figure out what I want to do. I was going to raise it by buying some similar oak and blocking it up utilizing the existing mounting points. Called the closest sawmill I know of that sells pieces like that and they said the smallest piece they got is 5'. If I have to buy 5' I was debating on just starting from scratch with a new piece cut to the proper width, maybe even go with a thicker piece to look real nice.
My question is that they only sell rough sawn... I like the rustic look but not sure how rough sawn will look? Is it ok? I like the hand-hewn look for sure but not sure how to do it / what tools are needed. Anyone done this before? Any advice? If I go with a whole new mantle piece it will be 5.5-7.5" wide and 2.5" thick or thicker. I'd like for it to be square if they have a piece / I can afford it, like 7.5x7.5 to look like a large beam.
My question is that they only sell rough sawn... I like the rustic look but not sure how rough sawn will look? Is it ok? I like the hand-hewn look for sure but not sure how to do it / what tools are needed. Anyone done this before? Any advice? If I go with a whole new mantle piece it will be 5.5-7.5" wide and 2.5" thick or thicker. I'd like for it to be square if they have a piece / I can afford it, like 7.5x7.5 to look like a large beam.