Installing a ceiling medallion (figure A) is a great way to hide imperfections or dress up a ceiling. Medallions come in many styles and are both inexpensive and lightweight. Take the room and the surroundings into account before choosing a medallion. When installing a medallion above a light fixture, choose one that is either larger or smaller than the fixture for a more aesthetically pleasing look. If painting is required, paint the medallion before installing it. Materials:
Medallion
Measuring tape
Needle-nose pliers
Circuit tester
Drill, with Phillips driver bit and countersink bit
Putty knife
Small paintbrush
Safety glasses
- Turn off the power to the chandelier at the circuit-breaker box.
- Loosen and remove the escutcheon plate (figure B).
- Disconnect the wire nuts, and test the wires with a circuit tester to be sure the power is off.
- Use pliers to open a link in the chain supporting the chandelier (figure C). Remove the chandelier.
- Use a countersink bit to drill pilot holes in the medallion. This will allow the screw heads to be recessed under its surface.
- Thread the fixture chain and wiring through the medallion (figure D). Be sure the decorative side of the medallion is facing down.
- Reconnect the wires, and secure the connections with wire nuts.
- Hang the fixture on its chain, and close the gap in the chain.
- Run a heavy bead of adhesive caulk onto the back of the medallion (figure E), and press the medallion into place against the ceiling.
- Secure the medallion to the ceiling with the screws included with the product, but don't overtighten. The screws just need to hold the medallion in place until the adhesive dries.
- Caulk any gaps around the perimeter of the medallion.
- Use patching or spackling compound to fill in recessed areas over the screw heads. Sand the compound when it dries, then touch up with paint.
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