When we first moved in, the living room fireplace was framed in white brick from floor to ceiling. We wanted to make this a focal point for the room (and a place to hang Christmas Stockings), so we took up the challenge of installing a mantel. The mantel is made out of solid oak, and consists of a 1x6, 1x5, a chair rail, and a molding piece. It was this project we learned the importance of having the right tools (since we didn't). Also, The mantel is screwed into the brick - we elected not to take the bricks down, so the fireplace has to fall down before the mantel does!
| Nothing but brick. | Covering the bricks with sheet rock | We didn't spare any expense on high quality materials |
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| Putting on the beginning pieces of the mantel. Notice the earthquake proof construction! | Just because it is clean inside, doesn't necessarily mean it is clean outside!. | The completed mantel- stained and securely fastened (and stockings hanging!) |
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