Replies

1. 
   Dave45 | Apr 02, 2008 04:59pm | #1

   This could become a real adventure, Puffy.  It's going to depend on how the mantle was originally built - and what changes may have been made over the years.

   If the mantle was pre-built then attached to the wall, you should be able to locate the attachment points (maybe hidden by a piece of trim) and remove the mantle as a unit.  (My mantle is attached with two countersunk bolts hidden under a piece of scribe molding.  I can pop it off in under five minutes.)

   If, OTOH, your mantle was "stick built", you may have to disassemble it one piece at a time and hope you can do it with minimal damage.

   Post some pictures if you can.  Maybe someone will be able to offer some suggestions.

1. 
   Puffy | Apr 02, 2008 05:16pm | #2

   Hi, Dave45:

   Thanks for your suggestion.  I may try to get a picture and post per your suggestion.

   Puffy

2. 
   gordsco | Apr 02, 2008 05:21pm | #3

   Odds are its built in place.

   Find wall studs and pry with a wide flatbar at those points.

   Get a foot long wood and metal blade for the recipro saw and cut off the nails as you pry it loose.

   If this doesn't appear to be working, you may want to consider a piece by piece dissembly and reassemble.

   "Perfect is the enemy of Good."    Morrison

1. 
   Puffy | Apr 02, 2008 07:22pm | #4

   I'll prepare for the prior and hope for the latter!  Thanks for the saw blade tip, gordsco.

   Puffy

3. 
   rjw | Apr 02, 2008 07:43pm | #5

   I'd ask over at the Old House Journal forum.

   ---

   Remember Mary Dyer, a Christian Martyr (Thank you, Puritans)
   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Dyer

   ---

   May your whole life become a response to the truth that you've always been loved, you are loved and you always will be loved" Rob Bell, Nooma, "Bullhorn"

1. 
   Puffy | Apr 06, 2008 05:06am | #6

   If they are half as helpful as this forum, it will be worth the 'trip' to Old House.  Thanks for the tip, rjw.

   Puffy