How to Hang Ceiling Tile Around a Light

When you hang a suspended ceiling, it's necessary to adjust certain tiles so that they fit around lighting fixtures. This is a relatively easy task and should not deter you from hanging your own ceiling. The lighting in question usually is a recessed can light. When you initially plan your suspended ceiling layout, mark where you will be placing lighting so you know how many tiles to adjust.

Tape measure
Pencil
Compass
Utility knife

Instructions

- 1
  Measure from one edge of the grid square to the approximate center of the can light, using a tape measure. Transfer this measurement to the tile and mark with a pencil.
- 2
  Make a perfect circle the size of the opening of the can light, using a compass. The mark you just made will be the center of the light.
- 3
  Cut out the circle with a utility knife. It does not have to be perfect. Can lights come with covers to help hide imperfections.
- 4
  Lift the tile into the grid square and gently lower it into place. The can light will line up with the circle you cut in the tile.

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