Table of Contents
Is it hard to replace a fireplace mantel?
A painted wood mantel is the easiest to install. It may need to be shimmed till it’s plumb and level; then it’s fastened to the wall studs with countersunk screws. Installing even prefab masonry mantels is tricky, though, because there’s no tolerance for error.
How do you remove an old fireplace 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, advises Fireplace Town. 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 much does it cost to replace 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 do you modernize a fireplace?
17 Fireplace Remodel Ideas Add Glass Fireplace Doors. A cozy fire on a cold night is a delight. Get Your Firebrick in Shape. Install a Mantel. Opt for a Salvaged Mantel. Add a Gas Fireplace. Put in a Fireplace Insert. Tile a Hearth. Choose the Right Tiles.
How are mantels attached?
As with many other forms of mantle or shelf, a fireplace mantel can be commonly attached to the wall with screws or lag bolts. Bolts are screwed into the wall above the fireplace before a mantel is slotted straight onto it. In this case any screws or nails may be located on top or beneath the mantel.
How are fireplace surrounds attached?
Fire surround attached with brackets Many modern fire surrounds use a hidden fireplace fitting bracket. One bracket is fit to the wall, while a corresponding second bracket is screwed to the fire surround. They then simply slip together without the need for any messy looking screws around the edges.
How do you remove a mantel from a brick fireplace?
How to Remove a Mantel From a Brick Wall Remove any decorative trim around the outside edges of the mantel. Insert the short end of an I-beam construction pry bar between the back edge of the mantel and a brick wall. Cut through the mounts with a reciprocating saw to release the mantel.
How wide should a fireplace mantel be?
The recommended width for a mantel is 6 inches (15.24cm) wider on both sides. So, if your fireplace is 36 inches (91.44cm), your mantle should be at least 48 inches (121.92cm) wide. Whether you want to install pilasters or not, you’ll need to have the same width for your fireplace mantle.
Does fireplace increase home value?
Return on Investment A homeowner can often recover over 100 percent of the expenses associated with adding a fireplace upon selling their home. According to the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers, adding a fireplace to home can increase the resale value of the home by as much as 6-12 percent.
How much does it cost to install a gas fireplace and mantel?
The average cost to install a gas fireplace is about $4,500 with average prices ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 in the US for 2020 according to Thumbtack.
How do you make an old fireplace look modern?
But if your mantel is looking a little tired there are lots of budget-friendly, practical tips to give it a makeover. Start by giving it a good clean. Brush it up with paint. Embrace the materials. Whitewash it. Tile in style. Fit a floating beam. Replace the mantelpiece. Try a faux fire.
How do you update an old fireplace on a budget?
Learning to DIY: How to Update a Fireplace on a Budget Add a touch of paint. Gone are the days of design elements such as bold and bright red fireplaces and natural, oak-colored wall paneling and trim. Turn your brick to stone. Add a mantel. Think — and build — outside the box. Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize.
Why do fireplaces have mantles?
The purpose of a fireplace mantel was traditionally to catch smoke before it entered the room from the firebox of an open fireplace, but mantels in more modern times are used primarily for decorative and aesthetic purposes.
What type of wood is used for mantels?
Walnut is a popular choice for fireplace mantels. It is a harder and heavier type of wood than most and is extremely durable. The rich dark brown wood is an excellent for an impressive fireplace mantel. Hickory is also a great choice for a fireplace mantel if you are going for a unique look.
How do you remove a wood fireplace insert?
Safety gloves and boots. Step 1: Remove the Trim. Using a hammer, mallet, or pry bar, you will want to remove the trim and any nails around the fireplace that is holding the insert in place. Step 2: Disassemble pipes and Vents. Step 3: Pry the Insert. Step 4: Set it off to the Side.
What are the parts of a fireplace mantel called?
The fireplace mantel comes in two major parts: the lower mantel and the optional overmantel. The main parts of a lower mantel include the shelf, legs, header, inner trim, and hearth. The main parts of the overmantel are crown and wall cladding tiles.
How do you remove an electric fireplace insert?
To remove an electric fireplace insert, check for any connections holding the insert in place and remove them, and pull the electric insert out of where it currently sits until the electrical connection can be seen. Unplug the electric insert from the outlet and pull the electric insert out completely.
