Good day, Thank you for your inquiry about our stone fireplace mantel. We have used a metal flat plate with holes in it to mount the mantel. The flat plate is first screwed into the back of the mantel, then using some of the other drilling holes it is then screwed into the wall studs. The flat plate looks like a ruler with holes in it. You will want to be sure that it extends past the mantel on both sides so you can screw it into the wall above and below the mantel. Once the mantel is secure the stone veneer is applied to the fireplace and around the mantel. Hope this helps.