See below for a shopping list tools and steps subscribe t.
Building a mantel for gas fireplace.
Make sure that both sides are the identical.
Nail the mantel shelf into the cleats along the back.
Store the firewood for your fireplace in one of these diy firewood racks.
Legs should extend from the floor to the bottom of the mantel shelf.
All combustible mantel surrounds and shelves must be kept at least 12 inches from the opening of your fireplace top and sides.
This is also a budget project that you can do for just 50 and in a few hours time.
Mark and predrill holes to line up with the mortar joints.
Rout a rabbet into.
Cut three poplar boards to size to form the vertical pilasters and horizontal frieze of the fireplace mantel.
Steps for building a custom mantel.
Level the cleats with shims and secure the new mantel to the top of the old mantel with finish nails.
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.
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.
Join the boards together with glue and pocket screws.
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.
You ll need just a few supplies and tools to get the job done.
Use a table saw to rip the edges of your legs at about 1 1 5 on each side.
Building a fireplace mantel is a great beginner building project that anyone can handle.
Use a level to make sure the brace is perfectly horizontal.
Use a power planer to remove the wood to the scribe marks.
This old house general contractor tom silva helps a homeowner build a custom fireplace mantel.
Use a circular saw to cross cut cutting across the grain pine wood to the length of your mantel columns.