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Build Your Own Fireplace Mantel

Since your fireplace is used only a couple months during the year, it’s easy for it to blend into the woodwork especially if there isn’t a mantel surrounding it. Building your own mantel is a simple project that can be done in a weekend. This post discusses constructing one using pre-cut materials. Just follow these simple steps below and before you know it you’ll have a great decorative mantel for the coming holiday season.

schutte lumber fireplace photo 1
Image via pinterest

The first step is measuring where the mantel will be installed. Options include centering it over the fireplace or having it run the entire length of the space. Using a cardboard template can help. Then familiarize yourself with national residential safety codes since mantels, like everything else used near the fireplace, must have a certain amount of clearance.

Most pre-made mantels are very simple, leaving you plenty of options when it comes to the ease of matching your décor. If you lean toward a clean modern look, then all that’s necessary is to stain or paint the mantel, let it dry completely and then anchor to the wall.

schutte lumber fireplace photo 2
Image via diynetwork

Requiring a bit more work but still fairly easy is adding different types of molding to give it a different look. Choose from dentil, crown or decorative molding. Each type of molding is styled for a different area of the mantel and gives a distinctive look. Also don’t discount using pre-fabricated brackets or stamped wooden decorations if time is factor. Then paint or stain and you have a beautiful focal point over the fireplace.

schutte lumber fireplace photo 3
Image via diynetwork

Have you built your own mantel? We’d love to hear how you did it! Please leave your comments in the section below.