How to Remove a Ceiling Panel

Sometimes the ceiling panels of your home are damaged by a leaky roof. Ugly water stains appear on a ceiling where rain water has pooled and soaked through. If the damage isn't extensive, try blocking the water stains with stain-blocking primer paint. If you have to remove the panel to make repairs to the roof, consider replacing the panel altogether. The removal process doesn't require an expert, but you should invite someone to help with the lifting.

Flathead screwdriver
Putty knife
Utility knife
Straightedge ruler
Electric screw gun
Dust mask
Safety glasses

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the power breaker to any light fixtures on the ceiling. Find the breaker in the home's fuse box.
- 2
  Remove the light fixtures. The type of fixture determines the tools required. Hire an electrician to remove any fixtures that you feel unqualified to remove.
- 3
  Remove the trim along the joints of the damaged ceiling panel. Pry them away from the ceiling with a flathead screwdriver or putty knife. Finish nails or staples usually hold the trim in place.
- 4
  Cut the panel edge with a utility knife where the edge meets the wall. Use a straightedge ruler to cut a straight line.
- 5
  Ask your assistant to hold the ceiling panel in place.
- 6
  Remove any rosettes holding the panel to the ceiling joists. If they're nailed in, pry them out. If they're screwed in, unscrew them with an electric screw gun.
- 7
  Catch and lower the ceiling panel. Cut up the panel and throw it in the garbage bin.

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