How to Install Fireplace Shelves

The fireplace often serves as the center of attention in a room, so it's only natural that you want your fireplace to be able to display favored decorations or pictures for all to see. For this reason, many homeowners choose to install shelves over their fireplaces to store such décor. According to Miami Stone Installers, wood is the most popular choice for a fireplace shelf thanks to its resilience and ease of maintenance. The wooden pieces are also relatively easy to install with some basic woodworking.

Stud finder
Pencil
Level
Drill
Screws
Finishing nails
Hammer

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the studs in the wall above your fireplace with a stud finder. Mark the locations of the studs with a pencil so that you can try to install your shelf directly to the studs. This will ensure a better hold.
- 2
  Hold up the wood hanger board or mounting board against the wall where you will hang the shelf. The hanger board should feature an angled side, which you must ensure faces upward to help secure the shelf.
- 3
  Use a level to make sure the shelf is flat. Mark in pencil on the wood each location where the hanger board intersects a stud. Drill a one-quarter-inch wide, 2-inch long screw into each of these spots, until the screw head is completely flush with the hanger board. If the studs are spaced more than 6 inches apart, add another screw centered between each stud to hold the hanger board in place.
- 4
  Slide the shelf down the wall until it rests tight against the wall and sits firmly on the mounting board. Nail the shelf to the mounting board in the back against the wall, using a hammer and finishing nails to secure it in place.
- 5
  Test the hold of the shelf with non-breakable items to ensure it is secure.

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