Hang a Fireplace Mantel

You scored a gorgeous Colonial Revival wood mantel at the salvage shop! Here’s the most secure way to attach it to the wall.

STEP 1

With an assistant, center the mantel on the fireplace opening. Adjust with shims until it is level from side to side and positioned as you want it. Use a torpedo level to make it’s level front to back. Lightly trace around the mantel with a pencil to create a guide. Remove mantel. Using 2 x 4 lumber, cut three cleats that will support the mantel. The first cleat will run lengthwise along the top; cut it one foot shorter than the mantel. Check fit against the mantel. The other two cleats run vertically in the mantel “legs.” Check length and make sure the fit is snug. Locate and mark three studs within the traced guidelines: one in the center of the mantel and two along the sides.

STEP 2

Position the top cleat inside the mantel and measure from top of mantel to bottom of cleat. Using that measurement, create a second set of marks on the wall by measuring down from the top mark. Repeat the process with the vertical cleats and mark a second set of lines on the wall. Align the bottom of top cleat with the second line on the wall. Using 2 ½" concrete screws, attach top cleat to the wall using a hammer drill with a masonry bit. Drill into the brick, not the mortar. Check that the cleat is level. Repeat for the vertical cleats, making sure they are plumb.

STEP 3

To mount the mantel, place it over the cleats—it should slide over them. Fasten the mantel along the back of the top shelf to the cleat every 16 inches with 2" finish screws. To secure the legs, attach them to the cleats along the edge of the mantel by the wall. Don’t nail through the face of the mantel. (If needed, cover nail holes with wood putty. Let dry and finish to match the mantel.) Attach scribe moulding with finishing nails along the gap between wall and mantel.