barn beam mantel

Determining the size of a reclaimed barn wood beam usually depends on the height of your ceiling. Ceilings that at are the standard 8 feet, beams that are 6×6 or 8×8 inches in dimension are a good fit. If your ceiling height is over 8 feet, then 8×8, 9×9 or even 10 x 10 inches in dimension work well.

How do you make a mantel from a barn beam?

Step 1) Power wash the beam and let it sit in the sun to dry out.Step 2) Using a chainsaw , shorten the beam to the desired length. Step 3) Place the 2″ x 4″ on the backside of the beam and mark it with a sharpie .Step 4) Using a circular saw , score the area you want to remove.

How deep should a beam mantel be?

Based on most housing codes and recommendations from the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), the bottom of the mantel should be at least 12 inches above the top of the firebox.

How far should a fireplace mantel stick out?

A mantel should stick out at least 6 inches (15.24cm) from the wall. It’s the perfect depth that allows you to have a mantle effectively deflect heat without compromising aesthetics. You can extend it to have more depth for your decorative pieces, but we don’t recommend having it less than 6 inches (15.24cm).

How thick should a wood beam mantel be?

A depth of 7 inches is ideal for most mantels, as it allows plenty of room to accommodate decorative objects. Keep in mind that the top and the sides of the mantel should be the same depth.

How do you install a floating mantel on drywall?

Holding your drill at a 45 degree angle downward, drill a pilot hole through the shelf and drywall and into the stud. Install a finishing nail into each of the pilot holes with a nail gun or hammer; the nails must be long enough to penetrate at least 1 inch into the drywall. These nails will secure the mantle in place.

How do you attach a wood mantel to a brick fireplace?

How to Install a Mantel
Remove the old mantel.Add support by drilling holes for lag shields, then install lag bolts into the brick.Measure carefully and drill corresponding holes for the wood mantel.Push the wooden mantel carefully into place using wood glue for extra support.

How much weight can a mantle hold?

The maximum weight for all 60INCH MANTELS is 150 lbs. The maximum load for all 72 inch mantels is 180 lbs.

How high should a mantle be above the floor?

Mantel Height: We recommend installing the mantel 4.5′ from the floor. This allows room for stockings during the holidays. Most housing codes and the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) state that the bottom of the mantel must be at least 12” away from the top of the fireplace box.

How much should a mantel overhang?

A mantel should extend a minimum of 3 inches beyond the firebox opening. If the fireplace has facing around the opening, the mantel can also extend 3 or more inches beyond that.

How wide should my mantel be?

Width: The mantle should be wider than the fireplace — typically 3 to 6 inches wider than the firebox on each side. You can choose to go wider, but it’s best to keep the mantel width proportionate to the room size and the fireplace.

Should mantel be wider than TV?

For the false wall options, generally there is a rule of thumb – always make sure the fireplace is wider than the TV. In our experience, the fireplace should be a little wider (6-8 inches) than the TV. This allows the wall to frame the TV, while offering sleek lines for the edges of the fireplace.

What is the best wood to use for a fireplace mantel?

Maple. If you want a fireplace mantel shelf that has a light brown color, maple is the right choice for you. It is well known for having tightly packed and very strong grains that can take a lot of pressure and handle sanding and finishing well.

How do I protect my wood mantel from heat?

A heat deflector is installed to provide air space between it and the wood mantel, and it’s bent at a 45 degree angle to deflect heat away from the mantel. It turned out great! It does its important job and is barely noticeable.