I bought this item to put in a new home I was having built.  When the mantel was finally ready to be stained and installed two weeks ago I found that there were large areas that were filled with wood putty that would not take the stain.  I am very disappointed with the quality of this item for the price.  Plus, now I will still have to find another mantel as the refund period has passed.  I will also be contacting the manufacturer.