Redstate2012, Yes the mantle is hollow. The mantle in this photo is attached to a 2X6 flanked with 3/4" plywood (4" wide X 60" long ) on both edges. The 2" X 6" is secured to the stone with (6) 3" X 1/4" Tap-Con screws. This 2X6 / plywd cleat system is very stable. I would estimate that after installation this mantle could support at least 200 lbs. The (hollow) mantle is scribed carefully to fit the contours of the stone and mortor .

Thanks for the inquiry
Paul @ Green valley Beam & Truss Co.

Is the hardware available for purchase?

I don't know what the cost is for the system from Green Valley. I would check out the cost to install your own (do you need to support 200lbs?). Not a slam to Green Valley, at all, but I prefer to use materials/anchors etc. that I have on hand and want to go away!

If this was my project I would:

Take photo of old fp so I am able to brag later with the new photo!

Mark the area where I want my mantle support (using paper or cardboard) and leaving the pretend mantle in place

Find & mark studs on my template (carefully marking top and bottom)

Drill pilot holes into the brick THEN remove template & save (just cause)

Chip off (wearing gloves, safety glasses & protecting floor) the protrusions of brick in this "zone" as much as possible

Install a ledger board, shimming where necessary for level and square, with the Tapcons (they are awesome- hex drill bit will be needed. No need for a hammer drill as not going thru major concrete and the pilot holes are in place)

After installing ledger, install a foam type mantle assembly (if on the cheap) OR stock lumber (beaten to a pulp with whatever) and stained and sealed



For hardware, I would go to a big box (w/pic in hand) and improvise.

I'm in search of metal accent pieces for a mantle, any suggestions?

Hello, just to clarify...are you looking for metal strapping\hardware to affix to the mantel?