Building A Mantel For Gas Fireplace

Fireplace framing and firebox flanges often cause bumps along the wall which the mantel shelf must fit.

Building a mantel for gas fireplace.

Use a level to make sure the brace is perfectly horizontal. This is also a budget project that you can do for just 50 and in a few hours time. Test the mantel shelf in place and scribe it to the wall if necessary. Make sure that both sides are the identical.

Mark and predrill holes to line up with the mortar joints. Join the boards together with glue and pocket screws. Steps for building a custom mantel. Attach the brace to the wall using 10 inch masonry screws.

Nail the mantel shelf into the cleats along the back. Fasten mdf cleats to the underside of the mantel to give it more height the height of the cleats will depend on the size of the molding you are using to wrap the mantel. Use a power planer to remove the wood to the scribe marks. See below for a shopping list tools and steps subscribe t.

Spread a canvas drop cloth onto the floor in front of the fireplace. In addition if the side panels of your mantel project more than 1 1 2 inches from the fireplace facing you will need additional clearance equal to this projection. Position the 2x4 mantel brace on the line at the center point. Use a circular saw to cross cut cutting across the grain pine wood to the length of your mantel columns.

Use a router to shape the edges of the mantel shelf. This old house general contractor tom silva helps a homeowner build a custom fireplace mantel. Rout a rabbet into. Store the firewood for your fireplace in one of these diy firewood racks.

Use a table saw to rip the edges of your legs at about 1 1 5 on each side. Level the cleats with shims and secure the new mantel to the top of the old mantel with finish nails. You ll need just a few supplies and tools to get the job done. All combustible mantel surrounds and shelves must be kept at least 12 inches from the opening of your fireplace top and sides.