Reduce wood mantel mantle trim clearances

[rsiros]

I'd like to reduce my mantle clearances with something unobtrusive and attractive. I found some 3" copper cornice (crown) moulding that I am hoping would reduce my clearances if I attached it on an angle to the trim below the mantle (copper cornice starting on brick and angling up to meet/cover/shield wood trim below mantle). Does anyone have experience with doing something like this? Suggestions and recommendations please.

 

[rsiros]

Also... could I use aluminum instead of copper? Aluminum trim is about 1/3rd of the cost but I'm not sure if it would be ok for this heat application.

 

[moondoggy]

i was thinking the same thing, my mantel is supposed to be 30" and its actually like 25".
Aluminum should be fine, just a decent gauge.. ie 26-28. but i like your copper idea better.
fyi shopping around me i think sears has better selection then the HDepot