Mantel Installation Instructions

 Materials and Tools Needed:

  1. Mantel Shelf (with pre-drilled holes for floating shelf rods)

  2. Mantel Rods

  3. Masonry Drill Bit (appropriate size for your floating shelf rods)

  4. Drill (preferably a hammer drill for stone or brick)

  5. Level

  6. Tape Measure

  7. Pencil

  8. Anchors (if not provided with rods)

  9. Hammer

  10. Vacuum (to clean dust)

  11. Safety Goggles

  12. Dust Mask

  13. Gloves

Instructions:

  1. Safety First:

    • Wear safety goggles, dust mask, and gloves to protect yourself from dust and debris.

  2. Measure and Mark:

    • Use a tape measure to determine the desired height of the mantel.

    • Mark the center point and ends of the mantel on the wall with a pencil.

    • Use a level to draw a straight line between these points to ensure the mantel will be level.

      **A laser level makes this step much easier.

  3. Determine Rod Placement:

    • Find two or more locations within the space that the mantel will be covering. Anywhere on brick is fine. For stone try to target mortar/between stones.

  4. Drill Pilot Holes:

    • Attach a masonry drill bit to your drill.

    • Drill pilot holes at the marked locations on the stone or brick surface. Drill slowly and steadily to avoid cracking the material.

    • The depth of the holes should be slightly longer than the length of the anchors or the part of the rod that goes into the wall.

  5. Insert Anchors:

    • Clean the drilled holes with a vacuum to remove dust and debris.

    • Fill the hole with quick-concrete or construction adhesive before quickly inserting the rod.

    • Let sit for 15m-30m.

  6. Install Floating Shelf Rods:

    • Measure your rods on center left to right and also top to bottom.

    • Mirror the rod layout onto the back of the mantel.

    • Drill holes in back of mantel for rods to slide into.

  7. Mount the Mantel:

    • Carefully slide the mantel onto the floating shelf rods. Dry fit first! It should slide on easily. If you run into any snags you can remove the mantel and drill the holes out a little bit more to give more room for the rods to insert fully.

    • Apply a small dab of silicone or construction adhesive to end of rods

    • Push the mantel firmly against the wall so it fits snugly on the rods.

  8. Final Adjustments:

    • Check the level of the mantel once more.

    • If any adjustments are needed, make them now to ensure the mantel is level and secure.

  9. Secure the Mantel (if needed):

    • Depending on the design of your mantel and rods, you might need to secure the mantel further with screws or brackets provided by the manufacturer.

    • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for additional security if applicable.

  10. Clean Up:

    • Clean any remaining dust or debris from the installation area.

    • Remove all protective gear and tools.