How to Seal Can Lights

Recessed can lights are light fixtures situated within a room's ceiling. Commonly known as can lights, they are popular for their convenient position, good lighting and sleek look. Homeowners are often concerned about two aspects of can lights. One is safety, since the light can be in direct contact with flammable material, such as insulation. Secondly, there is a concern that air will escape the rooms through the light fixtures. Sealing can lights appropriately can prevent both of these situations. It can be done during or after installation.

Broom
Caulk
Foam sealant
Ladder

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the lights for personal safety and allow them to cool. Though not necessary, power can be cut off from the room, if possible. Clear away dust around the space above the can lights before working below them, as these particles can fall into your eyes and mouth.
- 2
  Remove the trim or any decoration around the housing of the can light. Unfasten the bulb from the light. Do not strain to reach the light. Instead use a ladder or other equipment to access the can light conveniently.
- 3
  Apply foam sealant to the large gaps between the ceiling's sheetrock and the fixture and caulk to the smaller gaps. Foam sealant will allow for expansion and movement of the can light's housing, and the caulk will be more inflexible. You can apply the caulk from above or from below.
- 4
  Allow the caulk and sealant to dry. They should dry sufficiently within a day. Inspect the sealed areas for remaining fissures between the fixture and the ceiling. If gaps remain, apply more caulk to these areas. It's advisable to look at the area from both above and below to confirm that the areas have been adequately sealed.
- 5
  Restore the trim and other decorative material to the fixture when the gaps are sealed.

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