Building A Mantel For Gas Fireplace

Use a power planer to remove the wood to the scribe marks.

Building a mantel for gas fireplace.

Use a level to make sure the brace is perfectly horizontal. 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. All combustible mantel surrounds and shelves must be kept at least 12 inches from the opening of your fireplace top and sides. Position the 2x4 mantel brace on the line at the center point.

Test the mantel shelf in place and scribe it to the wall if necessary. You ll need just a few supplies and tools to get the job done. 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 router to shape the edges of the mantel shelf.

Fireplace framing and firebox flanges often cause bumps along the wall which the mantel shelf must fit. Use a table saw to rip the edges of your legs at about 1 1 5 on each side. Rout a rabbet into. Nail the mantel shelf into the cleats along the back.

This old house general contractor tom silva helps a homeowner build a custom fireplace mantel. Store the firewood for your fireplace in one of these diy firewood racks. Level the cleats with shims and secure the new mantel to the top of the old mantel with finish nails. Steps for building a custom mantel.

Spread a canvas drop cloth onto the floor in front of the fireplace. Join the boards together with glue and pocket screws. Use a circular saw to cross cut cutting across the grain pine wood to the length of your mantel columns. Make sure that both sides are the identical.

This is also a budget project that you can do for just 50 and in a few hours time. Legs should extend from the floor to the bottom of the mantel shelf. Mark and predrill holes to line up with the mortar joints. Building a fireplace mantel is a great beginner building project that anyone can handle.