BenzMama

We currently have a brick mantle over our fireplace & plans are to top it with wood. The brick mantle currently is made up of 5 rows of brick, each stepping back 1/2" - 3/4" from the row above, then has flat brick face on the whole wall. The top row is 7" deep.

Should I drill & insert dowels to adhere the new wood top? Or should just plain construction adhesive be used? Plans also include going down at least 2 rows over the brick with trim moulding on the new mantle.

glennjanie

Welcome BenzMama:
If you can get a good straight mantle-piece that will lay well; then I would use Contec PL400 adhesive applied liberally. I am in favor of no exposed fasteners is at all possible. Be sure to give the adhesive 48 hours to set and cure before nailing any trim on it.
Glenn

BenzMama

Thanks! Got the Contec PL400 on my list. That will also save a bunch of mason bits! Now just need to decide on the final design of trim moulding...

tlcww

Once the mantle piece is installed, I bet you will figure
out a simple trimming solution.
Would love to see a pic of the finished project.