Covering holes around ceiling boxes can be frustrating, but using medallions is an easy and decorative solution. Medallions are circular disks made of various materials that conceal electrical boxes and junctions. Here’s how to use medallions to camouflage ceiling box holes.
Gather Materials
You’ll need the following supplies:
- Medallion kit or individual medallion. Choose one that’s at least 1/2″ larger than your ceiling box.
- Drywall joint compound and drywall tape
- Sandpaper
- Paint and painter’s tape
- Paintbrush
- Screwdriver
- Pencil
- Step ladder
Prepare the Ceiling Box
First, turn off power to the ceiling box at the circuit breaker. Use a screwdriver to remove the fixture from the electrical box if one is installed.
Ensure the drywall edges around the box are cut straight and uniform. Sand any rough edges. Apply joint compound to smooth over cracks or gaps around the hole. Let it dry completely.
Use painter’s tape to cover the ceiling box. This prevents paint and compound from getting on the interior of the box.
Apply the Medallion
Hold the medallion over the ceiling box hole. Trace around it with a pencil to mark the area.
Spread a layer of joint compound over the marked circle. Press the medallion into the wet compound. The medallion should completely cover the ceiling box and overlap the hole edges slightly.
Allow the compound to dry overnight. Lightly sand the edges to smooth the transition between the medallion and ceiling. Carefully remove the tape from the ceiling box.
Paint the Medallion
Paint the medallion to match your ceiling color. Allow it to dry completely. Consider applying a second coat for better coverage.
Carefully brush paint up to the medallion edges. Blend and feather out the paint to conceal any imperfections around the border. Let the paint cure fully before reinstalling a light fixture.
Install the Light Fixture
Use painter’s tape to cover the medallion. Reinstall the light fixture or install a new one centered over the medallion. Remove the tape and restore power when finished.
Proper prep and application allows the medallion to seamlessly blend into the ceiling. It conceals unsightly electrical boxes and creates an elegant, finished look.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medallions Around Ceiling Boxes
What are the benefits of using medallions?
Medallions provide an attractive, decorative way to cover up holes and electrical boxes in ceilings. They come in various ornamental designs to coordinate with any room décor. Medallions camouflage ceiling imperfections better than just drywall or paint alone.
How are medallions installed?
Medallions mount directly to the ceiling with joint compound, adhesive, or attached brackets. The medallion should fully cover the box and overlap the edges slightly. Proper surface prep and smoothing the transitions are key for a seamless finish.
What types of materials are medallions made of?
Common medallion materials include polymer, wood, plaster, resin, and foam. Polymer and foam options are lightweight. Wood and plaster provide a realistic, carved look. The material determines the medallion’s durability, weight, and price.
Can I paint medallions?
Yes, medallions can and should be painted to match your ceiling. Use high quality painter’s tape to cover the medallion edges and avoid runs. Apply two coats of paint for complete coverage. Let the paint cure fully before handling the medallion.
How are ceiling medallions installed around light fixtures?
Electrical boxes must be safely accessible, so medallions are installed flush to the ceiling. Once wired fixtures are reinstalled over the medallion, trim kits carefully conceal the borders. The lights help disguise any remaining flaws.
How big should a medallion be?
Medallions should be at least 1/2 inch larger than the ceiling box or hole they conceal. Oversized medallions can look disproportionate. Measure carefully to find a medallion scale appropriate for the room.
Conclusion
Adding a decorative medallion is a relatively simple upgrade that can completely transform a boring ceiling box. With some basic drywall skills and the right materials, you can install a medallion that enhances your lighting fixture and gives your ceiling an elegant finished look. Just be sure to take the proper steps for preparing the area, adhesion, painting, and fixture reinstallation.