Build Mantel For Gas Fireplace

Build a Mantel for Your Gas Fireplace

A mantel is a decorative frame that surrounds a fireplace opening. It can add a touch of elegance and style to your home, and it can also help to protect the fireplace from damage. If you're looking to update your fireplace, building a mantel is a great option.

Materials You'll Need

Before you start building, you'll need to gather your materials. Here's a list of everything you'll need:

Fireplace mantel kit or wood
Screws
Nails
Drill
Hammer
Level
Measuring tape
Stud finder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you have all of your materials, you can follow these step-by-step instructions to build your mantel:

Install the corbels. The corbels are the brackets that will support the mantel shelf. To install them, first use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. Then, hold the corbels up to the wall and mark the locations of the screw holes. Drill pilot holes for the screws, and then drive the screws into the studs.
Attach the mantel shelf. The mantel shelf is the horizontal piece that will rest on the corbels. To attach it, first place the shelf on top of the corbels. Then, use a level to make sure that the shelf is level. Once the shelf is level, secure it to the corbels with screws.
Trim the mantel. Once the mantel is installed, you can trim it to fit your fireplace opening. To do this, use a measuring tape to measure the width of the fireplace opening. Then, cut the mantel to the appropriate length. You can use a miter saw to cut the mantel at a 45-degree angle, which will give it a more finished look.
Stain or paint the mantel. If you want to stain or paint the mantel, now is the time to do it. Be sure to use a paint or stain that is specifically designed for wood. Allow the paint or stain to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Install the mantel. Once the mantel is dry, you can install it over the fireplace opening. To do this, first place the mantel on top of the corbels. Then, use a level to make sure that the mantel is level. Once the mantel is level, secure it to the wall with nails or screws.

Tips

Here are a few tips to help you build a beautiful and functional mantel for your gas fireplace:

Choose a mantel that is the appropriate size for your fireplace. The mantel should be wide enough to extend at least 4 inches beyond the fireplace opening on each side.
Make sure that the mantel is level before you secure it to the wall. A level mantel will help to prevent the fireplace from smoking.
If you are using a wood mantel, be sure to seal it with a clear finish to protect it from moisture and heat.