How to Install a Fireplace Mantel

When you love your fireplace, but don’t love its outdated look, you should seriously consider a fireplace facelift. Remodeling an old fireplace isn’t that difficult if you have professionals doing the work, and when you choose the right materials.

Now more than ever, in-the-know homeowners are selecting manufactured stone veneers for their fireplace makeovers. And they’re choosing it for all the right reasons. Manufactured stone is lightweight, budget-friendly, easy to install, and available in more colors and styles than genuine stone.

Once you find the perfect stone for your fireplace, the next question is what type of mantel are you going to install? If you’re wondering if you need a mantel, most designers will say that adding a mantel to your new stone fireplace is a wise move.

Mantels add aesthetic appeal and give fireplaces a well-balanced look. They help break up the wall space into functional sections – the fireplace below the mantel, then everything else above it. Choosing the right mantel turns your fireplace into a focal point, especially when you utilize the remaining space for a flat-screen TV, wall art, photos and other personal touches.

Whether your new stone fireplace is modern, rustic, or traditional, you can easily find a mantel that fits any one of these styles. Let’s explore three popular mantel choices, then we’ll talk about how to install a mantel on a stone fireplace. It sounds involved, but it’s actually easier than most people think!

CHOOSING YOUR MANTEL

Stone fireplaces bring the beauty of nature indoors, which is why so many people adore them. A stone fireplace’s timeless appeal is enhanced with a mantel that also looks like it came straight from nature. Barn beam, stone, and wood grain mantels have solid, long-lasting construction, simple lines, and style that’s inspired by the great outdoors. And don’t forget, most of these mantelpieces look even better when accented with coordinating wood, stone, or metal display brackets.

BARN BEAM

Barn beam mantels evoke the warmth and ruggedness of a rustic lodge or country farmhouse with their ridged and rough surface textures. They feature strong, solid construction that’s meant to last. And most barn beam mantels designed today are available in a range of finishes – from rich brown or mahogany, to modern gray.

STONE

If you absolutely love the look of stone, and you want a mantel that blends in seamlessly with your fireplace’s new stone makeover, then stone is the way to go. Just like today’s manufactured stone veneers, similarly produced stone mantels are lighter than genuine options, and they look remarkably realistic, too.

WOOD GRAIN

While barn beam mantels have a rustic and rugged wood appearance, smooth wood grain mantels have a more refined and distinguished look. They still convey a warm, natural feeling, but with a more contemporary vibe and upscale distinction. These are the mantelpieces that are meant to display your favorite artwork and one-of-a-kind treasures.

THE INSTALLATION PROCESS

Mantel installation is easy and flawless when it’s done by a team of skilled professionals. During your fireplace’s stone installation, the contractors will take into account where your mantel will go, then install it according to strict guidelines.

They’ll take accurate measurements, locate studs in the framework, and ensure there’s enough support so your mantel stays secure after installation. Here’s a brief step-by-step tutorial on how to install a fireplace mantel:

1. Make sure you have the proper tools – a drill, level, screws and stud finder.
2. Securely screw the mounting bracket into the wall. The mantel will eventually be placed on this bracket.
3. Apply high-heat adhesive to the support rods on the bracket. This will ensure a secure fit after placement.
4. Place the mantel onto the mounting bracket. Let it rest on the support rods. Most mantels are produced with a hollowed-out side, allowing for easy placement on almost any type of mounting bracket.
5. Mount optional accessories – this includes extenders and coordinating wood, stone, or metal decorative brackets.

ELEVATE YOUR FIREPLACE MAKEOVER WITH CASA DI SASSI

Do you know what type of stone you want for your fireplace remodel? If not, Casa di Sassi can help. We are a leading stone manufacturer with decades of experience. Every stone veneer we produce exceeds industry standards. Each Casa di Sassi stone is modeled after a genuine stone from nature, then backed by an industry leading 50-year warranty.

Casa di Sassi also has a collection of barn beam, stone, and wood grain mantels, plus coordinating display brackets to complete your fireplace’s stone makeover. Are you ready to get started? Check out Casa di Sassi’s manufactured stone profiles and unique mantel options.