Install Recessed Lighting in a Drop Ceiling
Drop ceilings, also known as suspended ceilings or acoustical ceilings, are designed to support the weight of the framework and ceiling tiles, but little else. The addition of any items such as light fixtures, ceiling fans, track lighting, or recessed lighting will require additional support to be provided for the framework. With just a little planning, you can produce professional-looking results.
Instructions
1. Determine the exact location for the lights to be installed. Remove the ceiling tiles in the installation area and lay them face up on a hard, smooth surface. Measure each tile to determine the location for the light, then use the light as a guide to mark out the opening required. Very carefully cut a circular opening in the tile just large enough for the light canister to fit through. Do not install the light at this time. Cut all required openings in all tiles before beginning any installation.
2. Replace the ceiling tiles, being certain to position them in the proper direction so the opening is in the correct position. Remove other ceiling tiles to gain access to the area above the ceiling. Attach additional hanger wires on the framework surrounding each of the tiles with the openings. One wire on each of the four sides should be sufficient. Attach these to anchor points in the overhead ceiling. These anchor points can be nails, screws or preferably eye bolts. The additional hanger wires will help offset the added weight of the light fixtures.
3. Install the light fixtures in each of the openings. Most models of recessed lighting will come with two types of brackets. One is designed to be nailed to studs or joists, the other is designed to expand and clip over the railings of your suspended ceiling. These brackets make the actual installation process a breeze and it is actually normally easier to install these light sin a suspended ceiling than in a conventional ceiling.
4. Route your wiring from the switch to each of the light fixtures. Make certain all connections are secure with no bare wiring showing. Code requires the cables and wiring to be supported off the ceiling grid. In addition, the support must be independent of the hanger wires used to support the ceiling. In some locations, all wiring must be completed or at least inspected by a licensed electrical contractor, so keep this in mind when planning your project.
Tags: ceiling tiles, light fixtures, hanger wires, additional hanger, additional hanger wires, anchor points