How to install a light switch and additional ceiling lights?

Q. I have a ceiling light with a pull chain in my attic. I want to add two additional ceiling lights with pull chains. I also want to add a switch so all three come on at once. I believe to do this, I can take the wire leading to the first light, wire the black and white to the switch, and the grown as well. Then run a new wire to the first light, and then to each subsequent light. Am I over simplifying?

A. You basically have it. You keep the black wire black and the white wire white splicing a connection at each box. The black wire is supposed to be the "hot" side so your switch will be a break in the black wire and your white will just be connected without the switch.

Do a google on "residential wiring" or "home wiring" there are many sources with pictures and advice.

How do I wire a new ceiling light and switch?

Q. I have a switch that goes to an outlet. I want to add a ceiling light and install a second switch next to the outlet switch. I'm pretty handy? Any helpful tips on the process?

A. get a bigger switch box if the current one is a 1 gang. switch to a 2 gang new work(remodel) box. you will then have to fish wire to the attic going from switch box to ceiling, through attic, and then to the hole where you will put the light. use a new work box (octagon or round) for the light or if the light is over 15 pounds, get a fan box. after that, just wire everything. you should be able to feed off the switched outlet's switch. remember to pigtail when necessary.

~~a holesaw is an easy way for cutting a hole for the light. make sure to use a studfinder before you drill.

How do I add ceiling lights in my house?

Q. Hello everyone. I had a question about ceiling lights. My living room definitely needs more light and I don't really want to have lamps or halogen lamps everywhere. I'd rather have a clean look with ceiling lights. However, I've never done this before. Someone told me that I would need to make sure that the house was prewired for that. Does anyone have experience with this? Where would I have to go to get this kind of work done? The house was built in 2001. Thank you

A. From your description I believe you're wanting recessed lighting and your house doesn't have to be prewired for it, though you will need to add the correct circuit(s) and wire to incorporate it. I incorporate it into just about every project I do and the key to achieving great aesthetics with it is using the correct size lighting and lighting balance. Where you place this lighting, types, and wattages is key to this balance.

Now, if you're not experienced in lighting or wiring I suggest you hire a professional to work with you on achieving the look and effects you want and this can be successfully incorporated into any decor, contemporary or more traditional.

If you contact me directly I may know someone in your area that can help you. What I can tell you is you need to budget approximately $200.00 per light which includes the light and installation. This is inclusive of ALL work, wiring, drywall/plaster, and painting, if the paint can be successfuly matched; if not, plan on an additional $350.00 to repaint the entire ceiling.

Mike Lonergan
TradesProfessional, Inc.
http://www.tradesprofessional.com

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