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Stonemasonry

How should a marble mantle be fitted to the lintel and the rest of the fire surround?

Anonymous user 16/03/2024 - 2.33 PM

Hi there, I'm looking for professional advice and opinion on how stone fire surrounds - in particular, the mantle - should be fitted. I've recently had a marble fire surround installed but after a short time the mantle fell off. After much discussion with the installer, it was apparent that they had not used the mechanical fixings and had solely relied on the use of a bonding agent to stick the mantle to the lintel. Is this something which is common practice? I've genuine health and safety concerns as the installer is adamant that he always installs using only a bonding agent and not the mechanical fixings. Any advice or comments would be greatly appreciated.

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4 Answers

Archer Furniture

Rating: 5 out of 5
Rugby
Hi, I wouldn't advise drilling marble, but if the stone is predrilled and comes with fixings, why would you not use them? They often have a metal clip/bracket that is used as an additional fix. Even if it just secures the edge whilst the adhesive goes off. The brackets tend to be positioned to be covered by trim or the mantel. The bonding agent is likely to be strong enough on its own, as long as its the correct type for the application and with all adhesives it depends on the surface and the preparation of the surface. Needs to be clean, dust free, dry etc. A good tradesmen should reassure you concerns, especially if you are worried over safety.
Answered25 August 2020
4

Edinburgh Stonecraft

Rating: 5 out of 5
Edinburgh
No the lintel should be attached to the back wall with fixings and dowels.
Answered25 August 2020
2

Anonymous user

Your fireplace mantel should be pinned to the head and the whole thing should have L bracket fixing to the chimney flu (i.e brickwork), should never be stand alone!!!!
Answered28 August 2020
1

Corner Stone

No reviews yet

Penzance
The mantle piece should be set back into the Finnish plaster and dowled into the breast. To stop the counter lever a lime based bonding to hold on supports
Answered26 August 2020
0