Installing A Fireplace Mantle

By Robert Robillard on Home Repairs And Remodeling

Gas Fireplace Insert And Fireplace Mantle:

In a previous posts we removed the old mantle, new gas fireplace was installed, wood nailers were added to the steel studs, the wall was patched and painted.

Installing A Fireplace Mantle in the picture below:

We added vertical and horizontal wood nailers for the mantle and television mounting.  the addition of these wood nailers significantly reduces the labor of installing a finished mantle and TV mount later on.

The walls that were opened were boarded and veneer plaster applied.

Fireplace Mantle Ordering

We ordered an Algonquin brand “mantle in a box.”  Pre-made mantles do not work everywhere but in this case it was the most cost effective option.  I would have preferred to custom make a mantle.

When Installing A Fireplace Mantle you need to carefully measure and follow the state and manufacturer guidelines for exposure to heat and combustibles.

 

The Massachusetts Building Code Section 3610.4.7 and figures 3610.4.7a and 7b prescribe the following:

  • “Combustible materials attached to fireplace face, such as trim and mantels, shall have a minimum of six inches from fireplace opening.”
  • Exception:  If the mantel or trim directly above opening [the shelf] projects more than 1 2 inches beyond the fireplace face, the top clearance increases to 12 inches.

I just love those “knock down” connections. Their fast and easy to connect.

The fireplace was held against the wall, centered and inside opening traced in anticipation of the granite contractor. The fireplace surround will be 3/4″ limestone and the hearth will receive 1-1/4″ limestone.

The flat screen t.v. mount was installed to the pre-installed nailers.

Below the t.v. is temporally shown [not centered] with the mantle held in place for perspective. The mantle cannot be installed until the limestone is in place. To save time and in the interest of keeping the job moving, the painter will pre-prime the mantle while we wait.

Stone Floor Hearth

The next step is to install a limestone hearth on the floor.  the stone contractor first comes in and makes an exact template of the floor opening and them cuts the stone in their shop.

Typically they take two weeks for the installation.

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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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