You might need to cut circles in a ceiling tile for several reasons. Two of the most common are installation of can lights and adding a ceiling diffuser. The actual task of cutting the tile is simple. The most complicated part of this job is ensuring that the circle you'll cut is properly placed on the tile. The proper measuring technique will assist you in determining placement.
Instructions
1. Measure from the right hand side of the grid to the edge of the light fixture or ceiling diffuser, using a tape measure. Transfer this measurement to the ceiling tile, which will be placed in the grid square.
2. Measure from one of the grid sides running perpendicular with the right side to the edge of the light fixture or ceiling diffuser. Transfer this measurement to the same ceiling tile.
3. Measure the diameter of the ceiling diffuser or light fixture. Open a compass to this diameter. Place the pencil end of the compass on one of the two lines and the pointed end of the compass on the ceiling tile in what will be the center of the opening for the diffuser or .
4. Trace from one mark to the next mark. The pencil must hit each mark as it goes by. Continue arcing the compass until you have traced a completed circle.
5. Place the cutting blade of a utility knife onto the traced circle. Apply gentle pressure and cut around the entire circle. Do not bend or twist the circle to remove it. Continue cutting through the ceiling tile until the circle easily slides out.
Tags: ceiling tile, ceiling diffuser, light fixture, , diffuser light fixture, edge light
