Anyone can Put in a Fireplace Mantel in 6 Simple steps! - By: mark5lt6fi

As you checked this informative article, I assumed you might be skilled enough to install a mantel piece by yourself. If you are quite handy with tools, it really is quite easy. You can also save a considerable amount of money along the way.

When installing your mantel, two important elements are very important: a) observing the best distance from the mantel from your fire and b) making certain the mantel is securely attached to the wall.
Assuming that you have the proper mantel bit of your decision, here are 5 simple actions to help you. Just be sure you follow each correctly.

You will need the next:

• Tape Measure

• Spirit Level

• Drill

• Masonry drill bit

• Screwdriver

• Circular saw

• Screws

• Wood Putty

Step 1 - Dry fit the hearth Mantel

Place your mantel piece contrary to the fireplace, exactly in the spot where you want to buy positioned. Try to center it around the opening or firebox. You have to leave some clearance of at least 6 inches for safety measures. Using the spirit level, look at the level. You have to make certain that the shelf is level from front for the height of the mantel. You may need to put wooden shims under both legs until both levels are balanced.

2 - Mark the positioning

Now, mark the position of the fireplace mantel by tracing its outline having a pencil while it is still against the wall. You may have to do the outlining several times simply to make sure. This will make it easier for you to look for the keeping your wooden support called cleats down the road.

Step three - The Cleats

When the marking is finished, go ahead and take mantel piece down and lay it top-down on the ground. The next step is to measure the width inside your shelf along with the length in the supporting legs to know the size of the horizontal and the vertical cleats. Using the circular saw, cut 2X4-inch-by-8-foot bits of lumber to make your cleats. Dry fit them inside to make certain a snug fit.

Step 4 - Drilling the Pilot Holes

Before drilling, measure first the width from the mantel edges that will sit flush contrary to the wall. Then in the pencil scribe of the mantel's outline, mark the space where you wish to hang the cleats. With the spirit level, connect the dots.

While holding the cleats set up, use the hammer to bore evenly spaced five holes through the cleat boards and into the brick. Switching for the screwdriver drill bit, screw in the screws into the pre-drilled cleat boards and fireplace bricks. Do the identical process towards the remaining portion of the cleat legs.

Step # 5 - Installing the Mantel

Install the mantel piece around the wall. Make certain you line it with the fireplace across the support cleats. Utilize the hammer and screwdriver to screw in the finishing screws at the top with the mantel piece into the cleat. Countersink them slightly to cover up them from view. Repeat the same process with each one of the mantel legs.

Step 6 - Finishing Touches

To disguise the holes left from the screws, fill them in with wood putty or decorative plugs that suit your mantel piece. This may give your mantel piece the professional look.

You are able to further customize your fireplace mantel by placing family portraits and other accents on its shelf. Or better yet, spruce up your hearth by purchasing functional and decorative fireplace accessories to have an even charming and enjoyable fireplace experience

About the Author

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