How to Install Cathedral Ceiling Lights

If you have a cathedral style ceiling, you might be wondering if you can use recessed ceiling lights. The answer is that if you purchase the right kind of recessed lights, you can install them in a cathedral ceiling.

Step 1—Purchasing the Right Type of Ceiling Lights

Cathedral ceilings generally have insulation right from the roof that would get in the way and set fire to normal recessed ceiling lights. For this reason, you need to purchase recessed lighting specifically designed for cathedral ceilings or lighting that is rated “IC.” IC stands for insulation contact, which means that even if the light is in contact with insulation, it won’t get too hot for the insulation to handle. Another option is to use track lighting instead of installing the recessed ceiling lights.

Step 2—Safety and Preparation

Turn off the power to the room where the ceiling lights are being installed. This way, you will ensure that you don’t shock yourself. Make sure that you have a ladder that will reach your cathedral ceiling. Some ceilings can get very high, so make sure you don’t need to stand higher than what the ladder considers to be safe. If it makes you feel more comfortable, have someone to help hold the ladder. Wear protective eyewear so when debris or drywall falls from the ceiling, your eyes are safe. You can also use a face mask to keep your face safe from falling debris and breathing in insulation dust. Also, use a drop cloth to keep any furniture or rugs safe from debris or dust.

Step 3—Plan for the Lighting

Make a plan for where you want your ceiling lights to go. Make sure you take into account the way they are facing and how much light they will give off. Use the template that came with the recessed ceiling lights to trace the pattern on the ceiling. Make sure the lights are spaced evenly. If the lights are placed too close to the wall, you’ll lose a lot of light due to the angle. A solution to this is to buy what are called eyeball lights that can be tilted. This way the lights won’t point in the exact direction the ceiling points.

Step 4—Installing the Ceiling Lights

Use the drywall saw to cut holes in these spots. Once the holes are cut connect the wiring of the ceiling lights to the wires in the ceiling. Strip all wires so a half an inch of wire is showing and connect the appropriate wires to one another using wire nuts. Once you’ve gotten the wiring attached and the can in place, put in the light bulb and attach the cover or trim for the lights. Now, you can bring the power back to the room and see if your ceiling lights work.