Mantle top

[Tim Barnes]

I'm rebuilding my fireplace mantle as we speak. The top will be 3/4 thick solid red oak. Will I be able to use my jig to pull down the top onto the base, should I use course or fine thread screws, have pocket holes drilled for 6" apart, was thinking of using a drop a Poly glue 3" on either side of each pocket hole to glue the base down with. the mantle top measures 60" by 10". I already have base installed and pocket holes drilled. Any suggestions?

[KregRep]

Tim,

Which Kreg Jig do you have? The Kreg Jig K3, K4, and K5 models are designed to join material up to 1½"-thick. So if you have one of those, it will work just fine. The R3 would also work.

With solid red oak wood, you should use fine-thread screws. You can learn more here: http://www.kregtool.com/PocketHole-Screws-and-Plugs-Prodlist.html.

KregRep

[Tim Barnes]

Yes it's a K4.  Does the " distance of about every 6"sound about right? Would you use a spot of glue at spots equally spaced between pocket holes? Do you think poly glue would be best sitting under the fireplace with the heat? It appears that using 1"1/4 fine thread screws will penetrate 1/2 in oak if everything is set right?

Thanks for the help!!!

[KregCS]

Tim,

I was curious as to the thickness of the side pieces of your mantle.  If you could let me know I would be able to better assist you. 

[Tim Barnes]

KregCS said:

Tim,

I was curious as to the thickness of the side pieces of your mantle.  If you could let me know I would be able to better assist you. 

[Tim Barnes]

2x4 frame

[Tim Barnes]

Sides will also be 3/4 Red oak over 2x4 frame

Tim Barnes said:

KregCS said:

Tim,

I was curious as to the thickness of the side pieces of your mantle.  If you could let me know I would be able to better assist you. 

[KregCS]

Tim,

If you are screwing from the 2X4 frame into the 3/4" top you will want to set everything up for 3/4" and then use the 1 1/4" fine thread screws since you are going into oak.  Every 6" should be more than sufficient for this application.  You would not have to use glue but it would make a stronger joint and more permanent.  If you have any other questions please let us know. 

[Tim Barnes]

Should I stain and poly the bottom too. Will that help maintain the board moisture a little to 'help' the wood from drying out too much from the heat and help keep it from cracking,warping and or splitting?

[KregCS]

Tim,

That would not be a bad idea since it will seal the board completely.  The only issue is that if you decide to use glue you will not be able to sand out any issues with the glue. 

[Tim Barnes]

Would you recommend a size 6 or 8, 1 1/4 screw?"