- 1). Measure up from the floor using a tape measure and mark the height where you want to place the support cleat for the mantel, following all fire codes for your area. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, the mantel and any wood fixtures must be placed six inches or greater away from the fireplace cavity.
- 2). Use a level to draw a line through the mark. Find the studs behind the wall and mark their location just above the level line you just drew.
- 3). Position the cleat or back board that came with the mantel on the reference line you drew, centering it over the fireplace. Fasten the cleat to the studs in the wall with the screws provided by the mantel's manufacturer. If your mantel did not come with a back board, cut a wooden board that is the same length and has the same height as the mantel you will be placing.
- 4). Attach the mantel to the cleat. Drill pilot holes for the nails through the top of the mantel about ¾ inches from the wall. Secure the mantle to the cleat using four 6d finish nails, setting the nails with a nail set. Fill in any holes with putty and touch up the finish on the mantle.
- 5). Draw reference grid lines around the fireplace showing the tile placements for your design. Do not cover any glass or grill portions of your fireplace with the design. Dry fit the tiles to your grid and make adjustments as needed.
- 6). Cut and modify the tiles to fit the design and to accommodate any obstacle in the work area. Place painter's tape around the areas that will not be tiled.
- 7). Apply latex mastic tile adhesive to the wall area you will be tiling with a V-notched trowel. Spread it evenly and set the tiles into the adhesive, aligning them with your layout markings. Press each tile firmly into the latex to create a tight bond.
- 8). Install spacers around the tiles as you work and scrape out excess adhesive as needed. Allow the adhesive to dry completely.
- 9). Mix a batch of grout and spread it over the tiles with a rubber grout float. Remove any excess grout using the grout float and a damp sponge. Let the grout dry for one hour. Polish each tile with a dry cloth and let the grout dry completely.
- 10
Cut pieces of cap rail trim to fit around the tile design. If the tile is thicker than the trim recess, install build up strips behind the trim using finish nails. Attach the cap rails to the wall or build up strips using 4d finish nails and set the nails with a nail set. Fill in the holes with wood putty and apply any finish to the trim as necessary to match the mantel.
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