kitchen remodel can lights

[sundowner]

I need to add some addition can lights to a kitchen, (remodel cans). My question is: is there a good way to take out an existing can light- the new construction kind which nail on the beams, without destroying it. Any secrets resi guys ?? I've been down this road before and seem to recall that I completely ruined the fixture taking it out.

My plan is to take one of the existing lights out, use the opening to access the ceiling to tie on the additional new remodel cans.

Any thoughts

S

 

[mdshunk]

If you don't need to take out the plaster frame, just slip the can down and out from the plaster frame.

 

[LarryFine]

S, there is a difference between dropping the can and removing the frame. Which are you looking to do? Use the hole for access and then replace the existing cans, or remove them permanently?

Dropping the can involves removing the 3 screws around the perimeter, an inch above the rim, and twisting and sliding the can until it hangs from the flex. This also gives you access to that can's J-box.

For a permanent removal, do the above and remove the cables from the box. You must then replace the two cables between the two boxes they come from, since you can't render joints inaccessable.

The frame itself can be left and buried, or bent upward. The fingers that hold newer frames are easily bent out of the way and off the extendable brackets, but some older frames completely suround the brackets.

 

[e57]

There are a few choices of can that you can cut a notch in the side of the frame and 'roll' it into the ceiling. As mentioned in the destructions of a few. LV IC cans forget it!!!!! You're better off throwing a hand grenade in the ceiling and starting over IMO. In most cases though - Patching the rock will cost less than you fiddling with the old and new.... Unless this is some sort of ornate fresco job on the ceiling, a crew of rockers and fresh paint is the way to go here...