I’m new here, so here goes!
I’m struggling with a sort of a chicken or egg question. I’m building a fireplace mantel (pretty straight forward – pilasters, freize box, cornice and shelf) with a granite surround and hearth. I’m having the granite dealer do the installation but I don’t know if I should build the mantel first and then have the granite installed or the other way around. I’d love to hear the pros and cons of each way and any thoughts on the subject would be greatly appreciated!
Replies
When the granite surround and hearth are in, then you trim it out with your new mantle. Of course, you will have already worked out the actual dimensions of the project so that the pieces of your puzzle fit perfectly.
very nice Ralph. The depth in that wood is striking."If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you. This is the principal difference between a dog and a man." - Mark Twain
Absolutely beautiful.
Beautiful mantel Ralph! I think i'm going to do it the way you mentioned but I have one question. Did you scribe the mantel to butt up against the edge of the granite or is the wood on top of the granite? Which would give a more finished look? Any thoughts
John
I've seen it both ways.
If you build your mantle first make sure you leave room for a scribe to be fitted after the granite/tile is set.
When I trimed track homes we always built the mantle and the tile guys tiled right up to our work. Never had a scribe. But if I were going to go before the granite/tile I would have one.
Doug