We recently replaced an existing fireplace mantel and my wife would like me to re-purpose the old mantle as a high mounted shelf in our soon to be occupied nursery.
The original install was a 1x1 tonailed into the drywall and occasionally a stud. Very flimsy.
The mantel is 5' long and is a frame with a hollow space that appears to accommodate a 2x3 ( 2" high, 3" deep). In order to use that I would have to drill through the long side of the 2x3 and run lag bolts into the studs. This would seem to create a pretty long lever that could snap a bolt. I'll only be able to attach to 3 studs.
Is this a standard method of hanging mantels?
Would I be better off just attaching a 2x2 to the studs, then cut and mount some 1x2 angle pieces to the 2x2? That would seem to spread the load out more evenly and not put as much cantilever force on the bolts