Table of Contents
How do you attach a mantel to a brick fireplace?
How to Install a Mantel 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 support 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 do you attach a mantel to brick?
Lift the mantel and position it in place, aligning the holes in the back of the mantel with the support rods. Push the mantel onto the rods until the back of the mantle is against the bricks. Gently tap with a small hammer and a small piece of wood if necessary to completely align the mantel next to the brick.
How thick are mantels?
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.
Is a mantle necessary?
Do You Need A Fireplace Mantel? A fireplace does not need to be furnished with a mantel, but a mantel can enhance the look of a fireplace either as part of fireplace surround or as a standalone mantel shelf.
What holds up a fireplace mantel?
Since neither option is very sturdy, we recommend you attach the mantel to a cleat—a simple piece of lumber securely fastened to the wall. One cleat runs horizontally under the mantel shelf, and the others run vertically inside the legs (most mantels are hollow in back).
What is a floating mantel?
Our mantels are hollow on the inside, providing an easy alternative to solid wood mantels. Live grain end caps maintain the look of a solid piece of wood. Each mantel is hand crafted from reclaimed longleaf pine, providing a unique look and character that cannot be duplicated.
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.
How far should a mantle stick out?
A mantel should stick out at least 6 inches (15.24cm) from the wall. It’s the perfect depth that allows you to have a mantle effectively deflect heat without compromising aesthetics. You can extend it to have more depth for your decorative pieces, but we don’t recommend having it less than 6 inches (15.24cm).
How far above fireplace should mantle be?
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.
What kind of screws do I need for brick?
Self-tapping brick anchors, concrete block or concrete screws are used for fastening items to brick. Concrete screws are most commonly called Tapcon® masonry screws. The heavy-duty masonry screw has the versatility for use in brick, mortar joints, CMU, block or solid concrete.
What is the best way to drill into brick?
Begin by drilling a pilot hole using a small masonry bit. Then, attach the larger bit and drill again to make a bigger hole. Make sure the drill is perpendicular to the brick wall. Drilling through brick and mortar places stress on the drill, causing it to heat up.
How do you secure wood to brick?
When applying the glue, simply pace glue onto the wood surface in beads, and then stick the wood to the brick. You’ll need to hold the piece of wood in place until the glue is dry or you can also use masonry nails to hold the wood in place.
How do you bond wood to brick?
The best way to attach wood to brick without drilling is to use a brick wall hook. These hooks are designed for brick walls, even slightly curved ones. They are removable, adhesive-free, and strong (holds up to 25 lbs). You can install them in seconds and most importantly: no holes to drill.
How do you anchor wood into brick?
Place your mounting bracket or other mount of choice against the wall, over the pre-drilled hole. Using a nut driver on the hammer drill, put the anchor in place. Drive the anchor into the pre-drilled hole until the head is flush with the mounting bracket (or the wood itself). Repeat this on the other side and voila!.
How much overhang should a fireplace mantel have?
A mantel should extend a minimum of 3 inches beyond the firebox opening. If the fireplace has facing around the opening, the mantel can also extend 3 or more inches beyond that. Do not guess when sizing the mantel to a room, or the mantel could wind up being too long or too short.
How high is too high for a mantel?
A mantel that is at least 12 inches above the opening of the fireplace should be high enough away from the flames to keep you, your family, and your house safe.
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.
Can you do a fireplace without a mantle?
Fireplaces are often the focal point of the room that brings the whole room together with a few decor ideas. Below are a few ways on how to decorate a fireplace without a mantle that brings a centerpiece together and you’ll be proud to show off on a home tour, even if you don’t have any interior design experience.
