How to Install a Fireplace Mantel

Mantels
Put the mantel together by putting the main shelf on the floor, upside down. Next bolt on each leg with the hardware included with your mantel. 4- 3x5/16 bolts and nuts, 8- Flat Washers, 4- Lock Washers

Shelves
(If Applicable) Put the shelf together by putting it on the floor, upside down. Next bolt on each corbel with the hardware included with your shelf.

Measuring
The hanger board measurement should be taken from the floor or the hearth (where the mantel legs will sit or the shelf will hang) to the bottom edge of the hanger board. When mounted correctly, the mantel or shelf will simply hang on the hanger board and in the case of the mantel, the legs will touch the floor or the hearth. While the mantel’s shelf is on the floor, put the loose wall hanger board that is in the box on to the hanger board that is mounted on the mantel shelf. Use your hand to hold the 2 pieces together. When together correctly, the 2 hanger boards will form a complete board. Measure from the bottom of the leg down to the wall hanger board and record this measurement. Measure both the left and right sides to insure that you have a correct measurement. Mark your recorded measurement on your wall, both left and right. Take the wall hanger board and mount it on the wall so that the bottom of the board is on your recorded marks. Check to see that your wall hanger board is centered over your firebox before mounting. Once mounted, if the mantel or shelf doesn’t seem to fit snugly to the wall, you may put a small shim of paper, cardboard, etc., to fill the gap where the 2 halves of the hanger board meet.

(A Hanger Board is NOT included with all mantels)
A hanger board may be fabricated using a 1x4, cut at a 45-degree angle. You may also cut a piece of wood that runs the length of the mantel shelf or use 2 blocks of wood that will be placed at either end of the mantel shelf. See above for measuring. Set the mantel on the length of wood or blocks . Use finishing nails on back side of legs (right underneath the back overhang of the shelf) to fasten to length of wood or blocks.
The hanger board is only a suggested method. Your installer may also have additional methods for mounting your mantel or shelf.

Scribe Molding (If Applicable)
Once your mantel is installed, put the molding to the inside of each leg and just below the mantel shelf. Slide the molding back until it touches your surround. It is meant to hide the gap between the leg and the surround on the inside. You may attach it using small finishing nails or glue.

Suggested Preparation Prior to Painting or Staining of Wood Mantels
Lightly sand your mantel before painting or staining. Wipe clean. Use a solvent to remove any excess glue. If painting, we suggest that a primer be used before applying your top coat. We also suggest that you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application of either paint or stain. The hanger board is only a suggested method.