How to Reface a Fireplace with a Salvaged Mantel

Installing a salvaged fireplace mantel adds beauty, history and charm to an entire home. This project only takes a day and less than $300. Learn how to reface a fireplace with a salvaged mantel in this DIY Network video:

Before you hunt for a salvaged mantel, measure the original fireplace so you know what size to look for. There has to be at least eight inches of stone surrounding the hearth opening according to some building codes, so that dictates how big your salvaged mantel has to be. Mantels are one of the most commonly salvaged items from old homes, so you’ll find all sorts at your local reclamation center.

1. Remove the old mantel simply by prying it off with a crowbar, being careful not to dent the drywall around it.

2. Wipe the salvaged mantel down and scrape off any loose paint or wood chips. You’ll probably need to cut and resize the mantel to fit in its new place, but there’s a trick to doing it right. Start by gently prying off the decorative trim, then measure how much width you need to take out of the middle of the base piece and make the cut. Next, glue the two halves back together. Cut the trim down to size at the ends so you don’t get a seam in the middle and reattach using wood glue and finish nails. The trim will hide the bases seam and help hold the two halves in place.

3. While the mantel is drying, it’s time to replace the dated old tile, hearth and surround. Remove the old tiles by breaking them up and prying them out. Install the new marble tiles so they are flush with the floorboards by applying a 1/4-inch layer of thin set mortar to each tile and pressing them firmly into place. If necessary, cut them to size using a web saw.

4. Once the hearth is complete, the new surround can be installed right over top of the old tile using the same method. Choosing split face tile that butts right up against each other saves you the extra step of having to grout them. For the tile directly above the hearth opening, use a scrap board to create a temporary shelf so the tile can dry in a straight line.

5. Now the fireplace is ready for the salvaged mantel. Sand it lightly with a fine grit sandpaper if necessary, but remember to keep the weathered rustic look to keep its character; it’s not supposed to look brand new. Set the mantel in place and make sure that it’s centered and level before attaching to the wall with 2-inch wood screws. As a final step, paint or stain it to protect the wood and match the style of the room.