How Do You Add A Fireplace Mantel?
A fireplace is much more of a focal point with a proper surround and shelf. There are a couple different ways to install a fireplace mantel and several configurations. These directions assume you will use a prefabricated 4-piece unit of legs, breast plate and mantel shelf. The parts of the fireplace are: the firebox, where the fire is built; the surround, usually a marble, tile or stone composite frame for the firebox; and the legs, vertical posts on either side of the surround. Above that is the horizontal lintel—a type of backboard—also called a “breast plate”; and higher still sits the mantel shelf, and, in very large units, the overmantel and crown. The “hearth” is the flooring directly in front of the fireplace unit, usually there to catch fiery embers. Wipe the surface so it is clean of debris and dust. Sand the wall, if necessary. Mantel shelves are usually about 60 inches up from the floor. Dry-fit all mantelpieces to make sure the dimensions are in scale with what you want
