Building a mantel over a brick fireplace can be a rewarding and satisfying task. The goals is to create a place where the eye can rest, while providing a sturdy and attractive support structure for any decorations you may wish to add.
To begin, it’s important to measure the area and plan the structure of the mantel before going forward with any tools.
First, create a sketch of the existing space and measure the entire wall, especially the area around the fireplace. Measure the width, height, and depth of the wall and the exact location of the fireplace.
With those measurements in hand, you can use a jig saw to cut a wooden beam, or mantel shelf, to fit the space. Once it is cut, use a drill to create pilot holes where you will screw the mantel shelf into the wall.
Before you attach the mantel shelf to the wall, apply wood glue to the back, then use 3-inch wood screws to secure it in place.
Next, measure the horizontal width of the fireplace to ensure your mantel shelf fits snugly around the opening. Once again, use a jig saw to cut the desired shape before hanging it up with 3-inch screws.
Tip: Wood glue will help hold your mantel shelf in place before you screw it in.
Now that the mantel shelf is mounted above the fireplace, use finishing nails and wood glue to attach a decorative wooden moulding to cover and hide the screws from the mantel shelf. This will give your mantel a professional, finished look.
To keep your mantel safely in place, you can use brackets that are designed for heavy items like those. You’ll want to find brackets that match the width and depth of your mantel shelf, then screw them into the wall using the appropriate anchors for brick.
Once the mantel is mounted with the brackets, you can enjoy a beautiful, custom-built mantel over your brick fireplace.
Can I glue a wood mantel to brick fireplace?
Yes, you can glue a wood mantel to a brick fireplace. However, it is important to use the proper type of glue and best practice since attaching a mantel to a brick surface requires specialized assembly and installation.
Before attaching the mantel, the surface of the brick where the mantel will be attached should be clean and free of debris. Make sure to use a construction adhesive that is designed for use on brick to make sure it sticks.
When attaching the mantel, you should use a level to make sure it is even and secure it with mounting brackets. If attaching a mantel shelf, you can use lag bolts inserted into the firebox opening and fastened securely with a washer and nut.
It is also important to use appropriate anchors if mounting the mantel directly to the brick. After the mantel is attached and secure, you can finish it with paint or stain to match your decor.
How much weight can a fireplace mantel hold?
The amount of weight a fireplace mantel can hold depends on the construction, materials, and installation of the mantel. Generally speaking, mantels are intended to support the weight of decorations and other items that don’t exceed 20-30 pounds.
As fireplaces are typically constructed from brick and mortar, the weight of the mantel should be considered when installing. Even if the mantel is attached to structural support, it’s important to consider the amount of weight that is being supported.
Additionally, the answer may vary depending on the size of the mantel and the weight distribution. It is important to consult with a professional before attempting to install or hang any heavy items on the mantel.
It is strongly recommended that consult a professional to assess the strength of the underlying support so the mantel is installed correctly and safely.
What is a floating mantel?
A floating mantel is a type of fireplace mantel that is attached directly to the wall, instead of being mounted on the floor. This type of mantel gives a modern look to a traditional mantel. Floating mantels can be finished in a variety of materials, from wood to glass, and can be custom-made to fit the size and style of the space.
Floating mantels often feature an exposed wall between the mantel shelf and the wall itself, giving a unique effect and a spacious look to the overall design. Floating mantels are also a great solution for rooms that have limited floor space or tight corners, or where a traditional mantelpiece may not fit.
How do you mount a solid wood mantel?
Mounting a solid wood mantel can be an easy job with the correct tools and materials. First, you’ll need a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall and mark their locations. Then, you’ll need to cut support cleats for your mantel out of two 2 x 4’s.
Place the two 2 x 4’s on either side of the wall studs and mark the required width and height of the mantel on the wall.
Using a saw, cut away the empty space between the studs. You can also use a saw to cut away some of the wall board to create an inset look. Secure the two 2 x 4 support cleats securely onto the wall studs using long wooden screws and heavy-duty wall anchors.
Now, you can use a level and start to hang the mantel onto the wall. Take two pieces of flat wood and place them onto the back of the mantle. Then, use wood screws to attach the flat wood to the back of the mantle.
Make sure to drive the screws into the support cleats on the wall as well. Cover the screws with wood stain to give the mantle a finished look.
Lastly, use silicone caulk to seal the edges of the mantle to the wall and between the trim board and the mantle. This will help to keep water and humidity from seeping into the wood. If the fireplace is to be used, you may also need to install a fire shield and a heat shield to protect the mantel from the heat.
Now your mantel is safely attached and ready to be used and admired.
How do you make a traditional fireplace look modern?
To make a traditional fireplace look modern, start by selecting a minimal design. Choose a design with clean lines and few embellishments. The fireplace should be the focal point of the room, so pick something with a striking presence.
For the material, opt for sleek and modern options – such as a black brick or minimal white marble.
The mantel should also be kept simple and clean, with few accessories. Choosing interesting shapes, modern textures and unique materials can also add to the modern aesthetic. Mirrors, abstract art pieces, and floating shelves are all great options.
Finally, make sure to complement the fireplace with furniture and accessories that reflect the modern vibe. Geometric shapes, minimal furniture designs, and muted colors can help to create a modern atmosphere.
Use lighting to emphasize a modern aura. Ambient lighting, such as wall sconces and pendant lamps, are perfect for providing a modern yet comfortable environment. Finally, choose a neutral and minimal wall color, such as white or gray, to create an airy atmosphere.
Are brick fireplaces coming back in style?
Yes, brick fireplaces are coming back into style! Brick fireplaces are the perfect centerpiece for a home, providing warmth during the colder months along with an inviting and comforting feeling throughout the year.
Whether you’re looking to update the look of an existing fireplace or creating a new one, brick is an excellent choice as it is timeless and classic. Brick fireplaces can be designed in so many different ways to fit the style of any home.
They can also be painted to match your home décor, or personalized with unique shapes and designs. Brick can also provide additional texture, color, and texture to your living space. In addition, brick fireplaces are extremely long lasting, require little to no maintenance, and can add value to your home.
Brick fireplaces are really making a comeback and are a great addition to any home.
What color looks good with brick fireplace?
Brick fireplaces can be a beautiful addition to any home, but you may be wondering what colors look best with a brick fireplace. With the right colors, you can make your fireplace the centerpiece of any room.
The color that looks best with a brick fireplace depends on the other colors in the room and the style of the fireplace and its surroundings.
For a traditional look, neutrals such as off-white, taupe, beige, and gray can be used to both highlight and contrast the warm tones of the brick. Off-white is particularly popular when used with a red brick fireplace, and it can also be used to create striking contrast with a darker-colored brick.
Other color options for a traditional look include navy, hunter green, and deep burgundy.
For a more contemporary look, choose colors that complement the brick while also adding a bit of drama. Deep blues, charcoal gray, navy, and deep purple are great options. If you want to add some color to the room, try adding accents in bright colors such as yellow, orange, green, and pink.
Adding bright colors to a neutral palette with a brick fireplace creates a lively and inviting atmosphere.
No matter what colors you choose for your room, be sure to consider the style of your fireplace and its surroundings so it stands out and acts as the focal point of the room.
How can I redo my fireplace cheaply?
One of the most cost-effective ways to give your fireplace a revamp is to paint it. If you don’t want to go through the hassle of completely redoing the fireplace, painting it a different color or even just giving it a fresh coat of the same color can make it look brand new.
If you want to get a bit more creative, you can add some stencils or even tile to the fireplace. This will cost more than paint, but it will give your fireplace a completely new look. As for materials, you can get everything you need at most hardware stores.
You’ll need some tile grout, paint, and tiles if you go that route. You may also want to explore DIY options that allow you to repaint the fireplace with a more modern look. Lastly, if you have the budget, you could consider switching out the entire fireplace for something newer and more energy-efficient.
What do you put on white mantel?
The possibilities for decorating a white mantel are virtually endless. If the mantel is part of a fireplace, candles of different sizes and colors can be a great way to bring some warm ambiance into the room.
Fairly lights, either draped over the top or strung along the mantel, can also bring a cozy, decorative element to the area. Live plants, in pots of all sizes, can add some natural flair. For a more whimsical touch, you could hang some art or photography above the mantel.
Combining several of these elements or switching them out seasonally can be a great way to keep the mantel interesting and inviting.
How does Joanna Gaines decorate a fireplace mantel?
Joanna Gaines is well known for her decorating style which strikes a balance between rustic, modern and eclectic. When it comes to decorating a fireplace mantel, she believes it is a great opportunity to embrace the home’s character.
She believes that a fireplace mantel should be highly personalized, reflecting the homeowner’s individual personality, taste and interests.
To begin, Joanna Gaines often selects a color palette to ensure the décor looks put together. This could be as simple as selecting just two or three colors such as whites, blues, and neutrals, as well as incorporating lighter and darker variations.
When it comes to styling the mantel, Joanna Gaines typically will start with a large central piece such as a mirror, which aids in the look of a spacious mantel. She then brings in layers using items of different shapes, heights and textures such as candles, picture frames and books.
She always leaves breathing room between the pieces, making sure the mantel doesn’t look cluttered. To finish the look, Joanna will typically add a simple accessory such as a decorative vase, a clock or a greenery garland.
How should a white mantel dress?
For a classic, timeless look, opt for a white mantel dress in a sophisticated cut and fabric. Look for a dress that sits well at the waist, and then flares out gently at the hips. Cap sleeves, V necks, and A lines are all flattering shapes.
Consider pairing a white mantel dress with a black blazer, and opt for accessories in neutral shades, such as black, grey, champagne and beige. For an elegant look, add a statement necklace and classic pointed heels for a polished finish.
For everyday wear, try a white mantel dress in a relaxed fit with a pair of ballet flats or sandals. Finish off the look with a few silver or pewter pieces, such as earrings, a bracelet and a necklace.
No matter what look you choose, a white mantel dress is a timeless choice for any occasion.
How do you decorate a modern mantle?
When decorating a modern mantle, it’s important to consider the overall look and feel you want to create. A mantle is one of the main focal points in a living room, so its decorations should stand out while also blending in with the existing décor.
Here are some tips for decorating a modern mantle:
• Create balance. Choose decorations that contrast with the mantle itself but still fit with the rest of the room. For example, hang a minimalist painting above the mantle and place two symmetrical ceramic vases on either side.
• Choose unique artwork. Add some eye-catching artwork with a modern flair. Abstract art, mixed media, photography, and modern sculptures are all great options.
• Use plants. Incorporate potted plants as part of the mantle decor, especially green succulents, which add a modern touch.
• Glam it up. Incorporate some glam elements, such as a metallic frame or an eye-catching modern sculpture, to give your mantle an extra spark of elegance.
• Make a statement. Decorate your mantle with a statement piece, such as a modern chandelier or a bold clock that draws the eye and adds a funky touch.
By considering the overall look you want to create, as well as the existing décor in the room, you can create a modern mantle that looks great and stands out.
How many items should be on a mantel?
The number of items that should be on a mantel depends on the size of the mantel and the size and types of the items you’d like to display. Generally, three to five larger items provide a balanced and visually pleasing combination, and you can use one to three smaller items to fill in any empty space.
A common layout includes a larger item in the center, flanked by two or three smaller pieces on either side. You can also spread out items to create a larger display. Of course, it’s important to also minimize clutter, keep items within the same color scheme, and avoid overcrowding the mantel, so be sure to leave some empty space between each decor item.
What do you put in a fireplace to decorate?
When decorating a fireplace, there are many options for making it a warm and inviting focal point. Candlesticks, vases, clocks, baskets, bookcases, and large art can be hung or placed near the hearth.
Plants or flowers can be added to the mantel to liven up the area, while mirrors, sconces, and wall hangings can be hung above. Family photos and other objects with sentimental value can be arranged tastefully on shelves or mantels.
Small statues and figurines can be placed at strategic spots to fill out the mantel. Pillows and throws in different colors and textures can be placed nearby to bring in an extra layer of visual interest.
Finally, adding a display of seasonal accents like a bowl of pine cones or vase of holly can hint at the holidays.
How can I decorate my mantel with pictures?
Decorating your mantel with pictures can be a fun and easy way to add personality to a room. Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Choose a theme. Before you decide which pictures to put on your mantel, it’s a good idea to choose a theme. You could decorate your mantel with photos of your family, create an art gallery look with various pieces, or even put up some vacation photos to remind you of all the places you’ve been.
2. Choose frames. Different frames can add more aesthetic appeal to your mantel. Select frames that either match your home’s existing décor or add a modern, eclectic twist. You can also try upcycling old frames or repurposing flea market finds to give your mantel a unique look.
3. Hang in clusters. Instead of hanging your photos in singular lines, try creating clusters of frames to fill any empty wall space on your mantel. Asymmetric displays also add visual interest and create a more eye-catching display.
4. Layer and group. To add even more weight to your mantel, layer and group some of your photos together. For instance, you can group together a series of family portraits and then layer some favorite pieces of art on top.
5. Add objects. Adding some decorative objects such as candles, books, and vases can also enhance your mantel’s aesthetic look. Positioning various pieces at different heights can really pack in the style.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment. You never know what unique look you can create until you try it out. So be creative, mix things up, and don’t forget to have fun too!