Adding a ceiling medallion is an easy DIY project that can greatly enhance the look of a room. Medallions add visual interest, elegance, and charm to any space and improve the look of your home. With some basic supplies, you can paint and install a medallion in a weekend.
Plan Your Medallion
When selecting a medallion, consider the size of your light fixture and the overall style of the room. Medallions come in a range of sizes, typically from 12 to 32 inches in diameter. Measure the diameter of your ceiling light to ensure the medallion is slightly larger. Consider an ornate, decorative medallion for formal spaces like dining rooms. Opt for a simpler design in casual spaces like bathrooms or bedrooms.
Primed medallions are readily available at home improvement stores and online retailers. Choose a lightweight polyurethane or foam medallion for easier installation. Opt for a sturdier wood version if you prefer a more resilient, long-lasting medallion.
Pick a paint color that complements your room’s color scheme. For a cohesive look, match the wall trim or ceiling color. Contrasting colors can make the medallion pop as an accent.
Prepare and Paint the Medallion
To ensure proper adhesion and smooth coverage, lightly sand the medallion with the right sandpaper. Wipe away any dust.
Use a sprayer or brush to apply two coats of paint, allowing proper drying time between coats. Suspend the medallion from a wire to paint all sides and edges evenly. Paint the inner edges, too, since they may be visible from below.
Working outside allows for optimal ventilation for painting your medallion. Avoid painting on humid or wet days when drying time will be prolonged.
Install the Medallion
First, shut off power to the ceiling light fixture at the circuit breaker (if you don’t know how, a handy guide is Home Wiring 101: Dealing with Circuit Breakers and Fuses). Then, use a voltage detector at the fixture to ensure you flipped the right circuit and there is no electricity in the wires or fixture. Remove it to access the ceiling for installation.
Apply a bead of construction adhesive around the rim of the medallion. Carefully align and press the medallion to the ceiling. It’s best to mark out the installation position before you install it so you can quickly center it once you’ve applied the adhesive. Alternatively, liquid nail adhesive applied with a caulking gun allows more working time to position the medallion. Hot glue can also be used for a removable option.
Clean away any excess adhesive and reinstall the light fixture once the medallion is securely in place. Restore power and admire your stunning new ceiling accent.
For two-piece medallions, install one half, position the light fixture, and then install the other half. This allows you to avoid removing the fixture to install the medallion.
Maintenance Tips
Over time, ceiling medallions can accumulate dust and grime, detracting from their beauty. Use a dry microfiber duster or soft brush attachment on a vacuum to gently clean. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing that could damage ornate details.
Today’s Homeowner Tips
Periodically check that the medallion remains securely adhered. Reapply adhesive if any edges begin to lift or detach from the ceiling. This prevents the medallion from coming down.
With occasional cleaning and adhesive touch-ups, a ceiling medallion will enhance your room’s decor for years to come.
So, Is Adding a Ceiling Medallion Worth It?
Installing a ceiling medallion is an inexpensive project that makes a dramatic impact. Medallions instantly infuse any room with elegance and style. For very little cost or effort invested, a ceiling medallion is an easy way to add visual interest to a room.
FAQs About Ceiling Medallions
What tools do I need to install a ceiling medallion?
You’ll need basic tools like a pencil, ladder, sandpaper, paint supplies like a roller or brush, and adhesives like liquid nails or construction adhesive.
How do I know what size medallion to buy?
This is a matter of personal preference. Generally, medallions are a couple of inches larger than the light fixture.
Should I paint my medallion before or after installing?
It’s best to paint the medallion before installing it. This allows you to fully cover all edges and surfaces. It’s hard to properly paint the medallion once it’s mounted on the ceiling.
What is the best adhesive to use to install a ceiling medallion?
Construction adhesive works well for most foam or polyurethane medallions. Liquid nail adhesive allows more time to adjust and position the medallion. Hot glue can be used for temporary installation.
How do I clean a ceiling medallion?
Use a dry duster or soft brush attachment on a vacuum for routine cleaning. Avoid wet cleaning or harsh scrubbing, which could damage delicate medallion details. Check for lifting edges and re-adhere as needed.
Doug Sluga
Doug Sluga is a professional roofer and carpenter with ten years of experience in residential and commercial construction. His expertise spans the breadth of the roofing trade from minor repairs to laying shingles to framing trusses. These days he spends most of his time writing about roofing and the roofing industry.
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Lee Ann Merrill
Chicago-based Lee Ann Merrill has decades of experience writing and editing across a wide range of technical and scientific subjects. Her love of DIY, gardening, and making led her to the realm of creating and honing quality content for homeowners. When she's not working on her craft, you can find her exploring her city by bike and plotting international adventures.
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