How to Easily Install a Vintage Faux Fireplace Mantel on a Wall

Looking for an easy way to add vintage charm to your home?

Learn how to install a vintage faux fireplace mantel on a wall with this simple DIY project that transforms any room in minutes.

With these easy tips and decorating ideas, you’ll create a cozy focal point that looks beautifully timeless.

Why I’m Sharing This Vintage Fireplace Mantel Project

I’ve always loved the look of vintage mantels, and once we painted our walls and refreshed our dining room, I knew it was the perfect space for one. A vintage fireplace mantel would warm up the room, give me a beautiful focal point to decorate, and add character without taking up too much floor space.

Here is the before photo of the dining room with the open wall space before the vintage faux mantel installation.

I started by searching local antique and consignment shops, as well as online marketplaces, hoping to find a fireplace mantel I could refinish if needed, but finding one that wasn’t too heavy or deep was a challenge, since many vintage mantels are large and bulky.

After lots of searching, I found the perfect vintage mantel in Connecticut on Facebook Marketplace. It had been listed for a while, so I was able to get a great deal. The dimensions were just right for our dining room, so we made the hour-and-a-half drive to pick it up and secured it to the roof of our car!

When we brought it home, I realized it didn’t need any refinishing at all, I loved its original light blue-green patina and distressed charm. Someone had clearly put a lot of love into this vintage mantel already, and I couldn’t wait to install it on our dining room wall.

How to Easily Install a Vintage Faux Fireplace Mantel

The installation was simple and quick. We mounted two Phillips head screws into the wall, one for each side of the vintage faux mantel.

Then we attached a hook to each side of the mantel and used sturdy wire to secure the hooks onto the screws, holding the mantel firmly in place on the wall.

Tools and Supplies Needed to Install a Vintage Faux Mantel

To install your vintage faux mantel on a wall, you’ll need just a few simple tools and supplies:

• Two Phillips head screws
• Two wall anchors (sheetrock anchors)
• Coated wire for securing the mantel
• Phillips screwdriver or drill
• Two sturdy hooks for the back of the mantel (if your mantel doesn’t already have them)

That’s it, these basic tools make this an easy DIY project that can be completed in under an hour!

Step-by-Step Vintage Fireplace Mantel Installation

Follow these easy steps to install your vintage faux fireplace mantel on a wall. This simple process uses basic tools and hardware, and the photos below show exactly how we secured our mantel quickly and safely:

1. Screw Phillips head screws into the wall, one on each side where you want the mantel to hang.
2. Attach a hook securely to each side of the back of the vintage mantel.
3. Place each hook over the corresponding screw in the wall to hold the mantel in position.
4. Wrap strong wire around the hooks and screws for added stability.
5. Check the back of the mantel to ensure screws and hooks are properly secured.
6. Lean the mantel against the wall to inspect alignment before hanging it fully.

Decorating a Vintage Faux Fireplace Mantel with Salvaged Finds

After installing our vintage faux fireplace mantel in the dining room, I couldn’t wait to start styling it with a few favorite antique pieces. I layered salvaged windows on top of the mantel, added vintage glass bottles, and placed pewter candlesticks to create a charming, collected look.

This dining room was newly refreshed, and this vintage mantel became one of the first pieces to bring warmth and character to this space.

Decorating with Salvaged and Old Windows

Salvaged and old windows are perfect for adding vintage charm and architectural interest to any space. Layering them on a vintage mantel creates depth and a unique backdrop for seasonal vignettes, while showcasing the character of these timeless pieces.

Explore more ways to decorate with old windows over mantels and throughout your home in my related posts below.

Easy Styling Ideas for Your Vintage Faux Fireplace Mantel

Once your vintage faux mantel is installed, try these simple styling ideas to give it charm and character:

✔ Layer salvaged windows or mirrors for depth
✔ Arrange vintage bottles, vases, or candlesticks
✔ Add greenery or seasonal florals for a fresh touch
✔ Incorporate antique books or framed art for height
✔ Swap in seasonal decor to keep your mantel looking new year-round

More Vintage Fireplace Mantel Decorating Ideas

Discover even more inspiration for styling vintage mantels in your home. These posts share creative ways to decorate with antique and faux mantels, from seasonal displays to unique vintage finds that bring timeless charm to any room.

Conclusion: Easy Vintage Faux Fireplace Mantel Installation

Installing a vintage faux mantel on a wall is an easy DIY project that instantly adds character, warmth, and timeless charm to any room. With just a few simple tools and creative decorating ideas, you can transform your space with a unique vintage focal point that reflects your personal style.

Ready to start your own vintage mantel makeover? Share your project in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more easy vintage decorating ideas and styling tips!

Frequently Asked Questions About Installing a Vintage Faux Fireplace Mantel

Is it hard to install a vintage faux fireplace mantel on a wall?
No, installing a vintage faux mantel is easier than it looks! With just a few screws, hooks, and wire, you can securely hang a mantel on your wall in under an hour.

What tools do I need to hang a faux fireplace mantel?
You’ll need a drill or screwdriver, Phillips head screws, sturdy hooks, and wire to secure your vintage faux mantel to the wall safely.

Can I install a vintage mantel without a fireplace?
Yes! A vintage mantel is a beautiful decorative piece on its own. Installing it on a blank wall adds character, creates a cozy focal point, and works perfectly even without a working fireplace.

How do I decorate a vintage fireplace mantel after installing it?
Try layering salvaged windows, vintage bottles, candles, or seasonal decor on your mantel for a collected and timeless look. Decorating with antiques adds instant charm to any room.

Will a faux mantel damage my wall?
When installed properly with the right screws and hooks, a faux mantel shouldn’t cause damage. Use wall anchors if needed, and always check your wall type before hanging heavier mantels.

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