Learn How to Add Visual Appeal with Installing Fireplace Molding

Installing molding around a fireplace is a great way to add a bit of flair, character and definition to the room, allowing it to blend better with the surrounding design elements and become a central feature of the house. There are a few simple steps to take to make sure your molding project goes smoothly and provides a result that you can be proud of.

Begin by preparing the molding for assembly so that it fits correctly. Start by sanding and priming the piece to ensure a smooth finish. It’s important to not apply any finishing touches yet, as the best time to do that is once the molding is in place. Place the top piece of the molding on the floor, face down, with a soft material or carpet below to protect it from scratches or damage. You’ll need to have a friend help you with the next step.

Reach up with one hand and fit the vertical leg of the molding into the top shelf of the molding and provide a slight pressure to make sure it’s in snugly. When it’s straight, lock both pieces together by turning the knob on the top shelf. Repeat this process for the other leg.

Once you’ve finished the above step, take the molding and position it over to the fireplace opening. Ask your friend to help you once again to ensure it is level and properly fitted. If necessary, add a few wood shims to ensure it is perfectly leveled. Once the molding is in place, make an outline of it on the wall for reference purposes.

Grab the measurements for the horizontal portion, the mantel, and the two legs and use them to cut 3 two by four-inch pieces of lumber. These will function as your cleats and be used to attach the molding to the wall. Bore holes within the wall and secure the cleats into your outline – they should be fitted snugly.

Take the molding and place it over the cleats that you’ve just attached to the wall. Make some screw holes with the drill on the top shelf, making sure they’re evenly spaced and that they align with the cleats, so the screws have somewhere to latch onto. Do the same for both legs. Finally, secure the molding with two-inch finishing screws.

For a finishing touch, add edge moldings to the interior portion of the molding, right by the fireplace’s opening. Use a hammer to drive the nails into the edge moldings, and use a caulk gun and putty to fill any gaps and cover the screw heads. From there, you can paint and finish the fireplace molding with your desired theme or colour.