How to Install a Floating Wood Shelf as a Fireplace Mantel

Place a stud finder on the wall above the fireplace where you want the floating shelf to function as the mantel. Turn on the stud finder and drag it across the wall from left to right. Use a pencil to make a mark on the wall when the device lights up. Find at least two wall studs within the wall to support the floating shelf mantel.

Prepare the power drill by inserting the drill bit into the drill. Set six installation screws next to the fireplace.

Place the floating shelf bracket on the wall, and place a level on top of the installation bracket. This will ensure that the bracket is evenly placed on the wall. In addition, check the marks made on the wall studs to make sure the bracket overlaps both marks.

Take the power drill and one installation screw at a time, and drill the bracket in place. In other words, install the bracket using the drill holes on the bracket to insert the screws, so the screws hold the bracket tightly on the wall. Use two screws for each end and two in the middle. Make sure the ends are attached to wall studs.

Slide the floating shelf onto the brackets, using the holes on side of the shelf. Insert the shelf on the large poles sticking out from the bracket. Apply some pressure to make sure the shelf is pushed all the way inward. The shelf bracket should not show if it's installed properly.