How do you build a simple fireplace mantel?
What is the best wood to make a fireplace mantel?
Softwood. In most cases, hardwood is the best type of wood to use for mantels above fireplaces. Because of its hardness, it’s durable and lasts for years while maintaining the appearance of newness.
How much does it cost to build a fireplace mantel?
Install a Fireplace Mantel: national average cost
The national average materials cost to install a fireplace mantel is $236.47 per mantel, with a range between $212.16 to $260.79. The total price for labor and materials per mantel is $578.11, coming in between $483.53 to $672.69.
How high should a mantle be above the fireplace?
As a general rule, it’s important to mount the mantle an average of 12 inches over the fireplace opening, which is a general rule from the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) to ensure it’s up to code. The mantle can also be 4 1/2 feet above the floor.
How far should a mantle stick out?
The proportions of your mantel in relationship to your fireplace are important. Generally, your mantel should extend a minimum of three inches beyond the opening of your fireplace.
How deep should a mantel be?
A depth of 7 inches is ideal for most mantels, as it allows plenty of room to accommodate decorative objects. Keep in mind that the top and the sides of the mantel should be the same depth.
How long should a mantel be?
The mantel should not be shorter than the length of the fireplace, and should leave at least 3 feet above the mantel for decor. Start by measuring the size of the fireplace.
How do you install a floating mantel on a fireplace?
How do you build a floating mantel on a brick fireplace?
How to build a floating mantel (or shelf):
- Prep your surface. For me, that meant staining our fireplace white beforehand.
- Create mantel support.
- Create a hollow box for your mantel.
- Finish the mantel.
- Attach your shelf support onto the brick.
- Fit your mantel onto the mantel support.
- Style your finished mantel!
How do you attach a floating mantel to a brick fireplace?
Remove the old mantel. Add support by drilling holes for lag shields, then install lag bolts into the brick. Measure carefully and drill corresponding holes for the wood mantel. Push the wooden mantel carefully into place using wood glue for extra support.
How do you secure a floating mantel?
How do you remove a floating mantel?
Pound the bottom of the mantel shelf with a rubber mallet to separate it from the wall if it doesn’t release when you pry the base of the mantel away from the wall. Tap it gently, but with enough force to pull the nails from the wall. Once it’s loosened, pull out on the shelf to remove it.
How do you hang a floating mantel on drywall?
Holding your drill at a 45 degree angle downward, drill a pilot hole through the shelf and drywall and into the stud. Install a finishing nail into each of the pilot holes with a nail gun or hammer; the nails must be long enough to penetrate at least 1 inch into the drywall. These nails will secure the mantle in place.
How do you mount a heavy fireplace mantel?
The mantel needs to anchor to the studs in the wall above the fireplace. Drive 1/2- or 3/4-inch rebar rods or lag screws into pilot holes drilled into the studs. For best support, drive them all the way through the stud. Place one rod or screw in each stud behind the mantel.
How much weight can my mantel hold?
Combustible objects placed on or around the mantel must meet your fireplace manufacturer’s requirements for clearances to combustibles. DO NOT OVERLOAD MANTEL: THE MAXIMUM LOAD FOR ALL 60 INCH MANTELS is 150lbs. MAXIMUM LOAD FOR ALL 72 INCH MANTELs is 180lbs.
Can a mantle hold a TV?
The short answer is – yes. However, to ensure your television isn’t damaged from the heat, care must be taken to ensure heat generated by the fireplace is redirected away from television. There are several ways to do this, such as installing a proper mantel and building an alcove for the television.
How do you reinforce mantel?
For a great quick fix, I would paint the brick the same color as the mantel and leave the hearth as is. I would find a large piece of art to hang over your mantel to bring in color and add to your focal point. You can bring up the silver vases and place on mantel and add a smaller accessory to the right side of art.