A Custom Fireplace Mantel

Current info about a custom fireplace mantel is not always the easiest thing to locate. Fortunately, this report includes the latest a custom fireplace mantel info available.



Once you begin to move beyond basic background information, you begin to realize that there's more to a custom fireplace mantel than you may have first thought.

Have you considered installing your own custom fireplace mantle? It is really easier then it sounds. If you’re looking for a way to improve the look and quality of your home, without spending too much money or time, then a fireplace mantle is the way to go!

Here’s a quick overview of one way to do this:

You will need:

A drill, with drill bits and a Phillips driver bit
A hammer
A circular saw or table saw
A miter saw
Wood screws
Finish nails
1"x12" boards
1"x6" boards
2"x4" boards cut into wedge-shaped blocks (90-degree triangles)
Fluted wood molding
Crown molding
Base cap molding
Joint molding

The first thing you’ll want to do is install backing boards to the wall around the fireplace. You’ll want to make sure that they are secured into studs, or something else as stable, and not just into drywall, as this is what you will be securing your mantle to. Use a 1”x2” board for the top backing board, and screw it into the studs (or secure it safely to the wall by some other means, such as toggle bolts)

The next step is to attack fluted molding to the upright backing boards. Attach them in the center with wood glue, then secure them with finish nails.

Then attach another 1"x12" board directly above and flush with the outside edges of the fluted molding.

After this, the base molding should be secured to the bottom of the fluted molding, ten the base cap molding to the top of it. (If you’re going for an extra personal touch, you can use the base-cap molding with mitered corners around where the mantle meets the fireplace.

Now install the joint molding (2-1/4”) above the fluted molding to break up the flat surface between the fireplace and the top of the mantle.

Now you’ll be putting the shelf on. Cut a 1”x6” board (this will be the shelf itself) and nail it to the 1”x12” backing board. Level the shelf using the wedge blocks. This will secure the shelf, for when you nail the crown molding.

Cut and assemble crown molding to be placed under the shelf of the mantel. Using the finish nails, Attach it to the wedge blocks, backing board and shelf.

Now, feel free to be creative and attach whatever kind of molding you think will look best around the edge of your new mantle shelf.

The last thing you have to do, now, is finish it, fill in the nail holes with wood putty, or something you choose, sand it, and you can chose to finish it with just a sealant, or use wood stain to enhance the natural beauty of the wood.


Take a look at some beautiful mantels today and find the perfect one.


There's a lot to understand about a custom fireplace mantel. We were able to provide you with some of the facts above, but there is still plenty more to write about in subsequent articles.