How to Hang a Fireplace Shelf

A fireplace naturally becomes the center of attention for a room, and oftentimes serves as the gathering place for the entire household. It make sense, then, that many homeowners choose to display family photos, heirlooms and attractive decorations near the fire thanks to all of that attention. One of the easiest ways to facilitate decorating near a fireplace is to install a shelf above the fireplace to hold these pieces.

Tack cloth or cheesecloth
Stud finder
Pencil
Shelf installation kit
Level
Drywall screws
Finishing nails
Hammer

Instructions

- 1
  Check to make sure the fireplace is cool. You will be getting very close to the fireplace as you install, so make sure you will not be burned.
- 2
  Clean the wall above the fireplace with a tack cloth or cheesecloth to remove dirt and dust from the surface. Such contaminants can interfere with measurements or leveling.
- 3
  Locate the studs in the wall with a stud finder. Mark each edge of each stud with a pencil mark. Mark all studs within the area in which you will install the shelf.
- 4
  Set the shelf's hanger board against the wall where you intend to install it. The side of the hanger board with the angled edge should face upward; the angle will help support the weight of the shelf.
- 5
  Set a level on top of the hanger board to ensure it sits completely flat. When you have it in the right place and level, attach the board to the center of all studs it crosses with drywall screws.
- 6
  Place the shelf piece on top of the hanger board so it sits pressed against the back wall and the board itself. Hammer finishing nails downwards through the back of the shelf into the hanger board to ensure the shelf won't slip. Attach a nail every 4 inches to 6 inches along the shelf to make sure it sits firmly.

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