Projects

Recessed Lighting

Project Overview

Recessed lighting can add convenience and value to your home. By following these detailed instructions you will be able to install recessed lighting in your home in just one weekend.

6 Steps

Option A: Cut the hole
Option B: Use a Hole-Cutting Saw
Rough-In the Wiring
Wire the Light
Mount the Light

Add the Trim

Show all steps »

Step 1

Option A: Cut the hole

Option A: Cut the hole. Lightly mark all light locations. Use a stud finder to make sure they do not overlap a joist. Or, drill a hole and poke a bent wire up into it to make sure the hole is entirely between joists. Use the template provided with the light to draw a circle on the ceiling. Draw and cut each hole precisely. If it is even a little too big, the can may not clamp tightly. Wearing safety glasses, cut the line lightly with a utility knife; then cut along the inside of the knife line with a drywall saw. Take care not to snag any wires that may be in the ceiling cavity.

Step 2

Option B: Use a Hole-Cutting Saw

Option B: Use a Hole-Cutting Saw. This tool saves time and cuts holes precisely. You don't have to draw the outline of the hole on the ceiling; just mark the centre point. Check to see that you will not run into a joist. Check that the lights fit snugly without having to be forced into place. Note: This tool is costly (the saw and the arbour are sold separately), but it's worth the price if you have more than six holes to cut through plaster. A less-expensive tool (inset) is available for cutting through drywall only.

Step 3

Rough-In the Wiring

Run cable from a power source to a switch box, and then to the first hole, allowing at least 16 inches of extra cable to make wiring easy. Work carefully and use a drill with a long bit to avoid cutting additional access holes that will need patching later.

Step 4

Wire the Light

Open the light's junction box. Usually, there's a plate that pops off. Run cable into the box and clamp it. Strip insulation and make wire splices-black to black, white to white, and ground to ground. Fold the wires into the box and replace the cover.

Step 5

Mount the Light

Most remodel cans have four clips that clamp the can to the ceiling by pushing down on the top of the drywall or plaster. Pull the clips in so they do not protrude outside the can. Slip the can's box into the hole; then push the can body up into the hole until its flange is tight to the ceiling. With your thumb or a screwdriver, push each clip up and outward until it clicks and clamps the fixture.

Step 6

Add the Trim

Most trims are mounted with coil springs or squeezable rod springs (as shown). If you have coil springs: Hook each spring to its assigned hole inside the can (if it is not already there). Pull out each spring and hook it to the trim; then carefully guide the trim into position. If you have rod springs, squeeze and insert both ends of each spring into their assigned holes; then push the trim up.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Intermediate

Time: 5 hours

Before you start, read this »

Due to differing conditions, tools, and individual skills, The Home Depot® assumes no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered, or losses incurred as a result of attempting to replicate any of the home improvement ideas portrayed in this website Before beginning any home improvement project, review it thoroughly to ensure you or your contractor can finish the project and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary greatly, you always should check with authorities to ensure that your project complies with all applicable local codes and regulations. Always read and observe all of the safety precautions provided by any tool or equipment manufacturer, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

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