Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Cast stone mantel installation over interior brick veneer

I have an 800 lb cast stone mantel and surround (7 pieces) in my garage, awaiting installation in my family room. Many cast stone manufacturers (and the Cast Stone Institute) have installation instructions on their websites, but none specifically addresses installation over brick veneer.

My brick veneer is floor-to-ceiling and is a standard 3-1/2" thick. I assume the veneer was installed to Code specifications. The house is 18 years old and the veneer shows no apparent signs of cracks or stress.

Here's my question: To install the cast stone mantel, should I (a) secure the cast stone to the brick (not the mortar), or (b) find the studs behind the brick veneer and use masonry anchors to attach to those?

I've read stone/brick unions move more compatibly than stone/wood ones, but I'm concerned the additional 800 lb load may be more than the brick veneer was designed to accommodate.

Thanks for any advice you might have.

If it is a surround, I would assume that most of the load will be transfered through the uprights. To anchor the mantle itself, you will probably want to anchor to the mortar joints, the more the better.

Whew! I'm glad I may anchor just to the brick veneer! What I also picked up from your message was that I should attach the anchors to the mortared joints in the brick veneer, and not try to drill into the actual bricks. If I misunderstood, kindly let me know.

Thanks again!!

Hey Man that's a heavy Mantel lol!! I hope your installation went great. If it doesn't work out and you need a plan B check out my page on Stone Mantels (http://stonemantels.ruqqa.com)