Most ceiling light fixtures are mounted to an electrical box secured to the wood framing behind the drywall or other surface material with nails or screws. Chandeliers, ceiling fans and other heavy fixtures are often mounted to special braced boxes, which have metal bars that suspend the box between framing members. All ceiling fixtures must be secured to a box that's suitably rated for the weight of the fixture, and proper installation of the box is critical to meet the rated load. If you're adding a very lightweight fixture where no box exists, you may be able to mount it using an "old work" or "remodel" box that's supported by the drywall alone, provided this is allowed by the local building code.
Instructions
1. Determine the location of the electrical box for the fixture. Typically, this will be next to a ceiling/floor joist or between two joists. If necessary, use a stud finder or a hammer and finish nail to locate the nearest joist(s).
2. Hold the box against the ceiling drywall in the planned location, and trace around the outside of the box with a pencil. Make sure there are no electrical or plumbing lines behind the surface, then cut along the pencil line with a drywall saw.
3. Position the box so its front edges are flush with the finished face of the drywall. Secure the box to the framing with screws or nails. If you're using a braced box, install the box as directed by the manufacturer.
4. Secure the fixture mounting strap to the box, using the screws provided or the screws that came with the box. After making the appropriate wiring connections, mount the fixture to the strap as required.
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