Install a Fireplace Mantel

A handy homeowner with some carpentry tools and experience can do the job. Tribune New Service

Amp up the appeal of an ordinary fireplace in a typical track home living room with a stylish new mantel and add character to the room. At a home center or lumberyard, you’ll find an array of mantel styles and elements sold as components or kits. Kits typically include a shelf, surround and the pilasters that decorate the surround, and they are designed with do-it-yourselfers in mind. You’ll find several sources online, such as www.mantelcraft.com.

A carpenter will install a moderately priced unfinished hardwood mantel and surround for $1,567, which includes the material and labor. A handy homeowner with some carpentry tools and experience can buy the components and install them for $750 and pocket a 52 percent saving.

Before you go shopping or order any material, make a drawing of the fireplace and take accurate measurements of the opening to determine the size and components needed. And check with your local building inspector to learn the building code requirements about spacing combustible material near the firebox opening. Don’t forget to allow additional time to finish the mantel with stain or paint.

To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

Pro Cost—DIY Cost—Pro time—DIY Time—DIY Savings—Percent Saved

$1,567—$750—16.7—20.0—$817—52 percent