Sorry for the crappy cell phone pic, but this is the fire place in the house we just bought.

The prior homeowners installed the tile backing. We aren’t in love with the tile, but we don’t want to spend the money or time to replace it.

We do however want to add a free floating mantel, but we have no idea on how to go about it.

How would we fasten it to the wall?
How do you locate the studs through the tile? Would we have to cut away some tile?
Should we just drill through the tile and then install some type of drywall anchor?
Could I use some type of construction adhesive?

Any advice or plans would be appreciated.

I’ve looked at the mantels that are built out with legs that “frame” the opening of the fire place, but I don’t think that will work well with this living room. It could be a last resort though.

Thanks for the help




Here are a couple of examples of what I have in mind.





[This message has been edited by PineTreeAg (edited 9/10/2013 4:03p).]

Use heavy toggle bolts against a backplate for a hollow mantle or that extend into a solid piece of wood. You will need to drill the pilot holes for it, so make sure you get a specialty bit and move slow.

Here is an example of one in stone so you can get an idea.

http://www.remodelaholic.com/2012/11/installing-wood-mantel/

[This message has been edited by mts6175 (edited 9/10/2013 7:17p).]

For what you have in mind, you could use a French cleat with a million, or several wall anchors. They make them now that are rated for tremendous weights.

dubi thinks she's all that and a bag of chips when she uses big foreign words!

quote:

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dubi thinks she's all that and a bag of chips when she uses big foreign words!

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Mr Dubi actually typed that on my ipad. I really don't know anything about those big words.

old mantel


new mantel


Sorry for the crappy 2nd pic. Let me know and I can take a better one if you need it.

Oh dear Lord, I hated all that paneling!

I had a house full of it! It was a fantastic feeling when we ripped it out and replaced it with Sheetrock.