how did you hang your fireplace mantel

[ymurf]

I am getting ready to stone my fireplace but before I start I need to know how to hang the mantel.Planning on using a wood beam of some kind. What do I need to do to hang this.How did you guys hang your mantels?Pictures?

 

[webby3650]

Here is a pic of mine during construction. I used 10" wedge anchors into the block, then bored into the lateral support from the end as well as the top, allowing me to get a nut and washer on the bolt. Then I used 5/16 tapcons to anchor the bottom of the 45 degree brace.
I have since done a little remodel to the opening.

 

[webby3650]

Here is the new and improved fireplace!

 

[Stax]

Why did you take the insert out?

 

[webby3650]

Why did you take the insert out?

After I put the Cape Cod in we didn't use it. Since I had no need for it I sold it to a friend. We have really been enjoying the open fire on cool evenings!

 

[begreen]

There are different ways to support the mantel, the most common being on a ledge with side brackets. One method is a french cleat on the back. Another would be bolting anchor plates to the backside of the mantel, make shallow recesses in the cement board for the plates, then attaching them to the studs and rock, brick or tile veneer over them. Here's a helpful guide that may provide more ideas.

http://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-hang-a-fireplace-mantel#.URfvlSXzKi0

 

[begreen]

After I put the Cape Cod in we didn't use it. Since I had no need for it I sold it to a friend. We have really been enjoying the open fire on cool evenings!

Looks great. I'll bet it's particularly nice on rainy, cold evenings when a fire pit is out of the question.

 

[webby3650]

Looks great. I'll bet it's particularly nice on rainy, cold evenings when a fire pit is out of the question.

Thanks. The mantel is a 8"x12" red oak log that's 8' long . It weighed about 350 lbs. when I put it up there. I had to make sure those supports weren't going anywhere.