Problem: Fireplaces tend to be focal points for rooms. A fireplace with inadequate or improper trim can detract from the appearance of your room.
Solution: You can install a pre-assembled fireplace mantel to enhance the look of your fireplace. Several styles are available, and some mantels come pre-primed and ready to paint.
Equipment list:
Drill with drill bit and Phillips head screw bit
Hammer
Putty knife
Caulk gun and silicone caulk
Four-foot level
Stud finder
Tape measure
Hand saw
Preassembled fireplace mantel
Sanding block
Work gloves
Safety glasses
Remove any existing molding
- Slide the putty knife between the molding and the wall, and loosen the molding.
- Remove the molding by prying it from the wall with a claw hammer. Be sure to place a block of wood between the hammer and the wall to avoid damaging the drywall.
* Most pre-assembled fireplace mantels have hollow places in back to allow easier installation. The hollow spots allow you to slide the mantel onto pieces of wood attached to the wall.
Install the new mantel
- Position the new mantel around the fireplace. Use a tape measure and level to make sure the mantel is properly positioned. If the mantel is not level, you can adjust it by placing shims under one side or the other.
- Mark the locations of the sides and top of the mantel, then remove the mantel from the wall.
- Measure the locations of the hollow places in the back of the mantel. Transfer the measurements to the wall.
- Use the stud finder to locate and mark the positions of the studs behind the wall.
- Align a strip of 1" x 2" wood with marks for the top hollow place, and screw it to the wall using three-inch all-purpose screws. Do the same for the side pieces. You may need to use toggle bolts for the side pieces if no stud is available.
- Slide the mantel onto the wood strips and check it once more with the level.
- Pre-drill pilot holes about 8" to 10" apart in the top and sides. Attach the mantel to the wood strips using finish nails. When nailing into the mantel, leave about 1/4" of the head showing above the surface, then use a nail set to drive the nail just below the surface.
- Cover the nail holes with wood filler, and sand the filler smooth when it dries.
- Caulk any gaps or voids, and paint the mantel to suit your taste.
Resources pre-assembled mantel - Readybuilt
The Readybuilt Products Company
PO Box 4425
Baltimore, MD 21223
USA
Phone: 410-233-5833
Fax: 410-566-7170
Email:
sales@readybuilt.com
URL:
www.readybuilt.com
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