DIY Framing a Ceiling for a New Ceiling Fixture

• Wiring a Ceiling Fan/Light
• Hanging a Ceiling Fixture
• Splicing Wires
• Measuring Circuit Amps

Always turn off the power before working on electricity and check local electrical code before altering circuits. The follow instructions assume basic wiring skills.

This articles describes ceiling fan and light fixture installation. Framing for a new installation is covered on this page. Replacing an existing fixture is covered on page 2 and wiring diagrams are covered here. If replacing an existing fixture, check the current outlet box to be sure it is securely attached to the ceiling framing and then proceed to Installing the Fixture.

Framing for a New Ceiling Fixture

To install a new ceiling fixture first determine where it will be located. If no outlet box exists in the desired location, the following methods can be used to install a new one for a ceiling fan or ceiling lighting fixture. If installing a new ceiling fan be sure to place it so the the blades are at least 30 inches from all walls and use a metal octagonal box, rather than a plastic one, for extra support.

Determine where the electrical source for the new outlet will be and run cable to the new fixture, as well as to the switch that will control it. Use the wiring diagram for a single pole switch for this installation. See the Fishing New Household Wiring page for help running a new circuit.

When an unfinished attic exists above the ceiling, the new installation will be simple. Just measure and cut a 2x4 to fit between the two joists nearest the new fixture location.

Hold the box against the ceiling and trace it with a pencil to mark the hole. Cut the hole using a drywall saw for drywall and gypsum board plaster and a reciprocating saw on lath plaster. To start the cut, drill a hole large enough to insert the blade. Push the blade into the hole and keep the base pressed firmly against the ceiling while cutting to avoid cracking the plaster.

Fasten the 2x4 in place using 3 inch nails or screws. Install a cable clamp in one of the outlet box holes. Run the new cable through it and clamp it in place. Attach the box to the 2x4 and wire the fixture.

Working on a Ceiling with No Attic Access

If no access is available from above, the ceiling drywall or plaster must be cut to install the new framing and fixture. See Repairing Large Holes for help with repairs after the installation.

Locate the two ceiling joists nearest the new location using a stud finder or tap on the ceiling until the sound indicates the general location of the joists. Use a drill and an eighth inch bit to drill through the plaster where the joists are estimated to be. Drill holes at 1" intervals until wood is ejected from the drill bit. Mark the location of each joist.

Cut a hole in the ceiling between the two joists the size and shape of the new outlet box. Use the box as a template to mark the ceiling. Use a drywall saw for drywall and gypsum board plaster and a reciprocating saw to cut lath plaster. Next, cut a hole in the ceiling on the outer side of each joist, large enough to use a drill/driver to fasten the 2x4 in place. About 6x12 inches should be enough.

Working through one of the new holes, measure the distance between the two joists. Hook a tape measure over the side of the farthest joist and read the tape. Subtract the thickness of the two joists from the total measurement. This is the proper length of the new support piece.

Cut a 2x4 to this length and insert it into the ceiling cavity through one of the holes. Push the whole length into the ceiling parallel with the joist. Run the electrical wiring to the outlet hole and install the box.

Thread a cable clamp into one of the box access holes. Pull 12 inches of cable through the outlet hole, into the box. Tighten the collar around it. Reach through one of the joist holes and turn the 2x4 to fit between the joists. Fasten the new outlet box to the 2x4, working through the outlet hole.

Attach the 2x4 so the outlet box fits neatly into the outlet hole. Hold the box flush with the ceiling plaster and secure the 2x4 in place with two screws on each end. If necessary, drill pilot holes first to make driving the screws easier. Repair the ceiling holes using this drywall repair method.

Method #2 A shortcut to installing a new outlet box is to attach it directly to the side of an existing joist. This method will work OK for a small ceiling light but will not support a heavy lamp or ceiling fan.

With ceiling access from an attic, simply install an octagonal box with side brackets to the side of the joist. Place the box so it is flush with with the ceiling plaster.

When there is no access from an attic, use an outlet box with no brackets. Mark and cut the ceiling using a standard octagon box as a template. Cut the holes and test the box for a good fit. Drill two holes in the side of the box where it contacts the joist. Install a cable clamp in one of the access holes. Pull about 12 inches of cable through and tighten the clamp around it. Position the box so it is flush with the ceiling and drive a screw into each hole to securely attach it to the joist.

Go to Installing a Ceiling Fixture on page 2 of this article for more.