How to use a Dremel to cut out a recessed light ‣ MyFixitUpLife

Basement remodeling is hard. One of the many difficult things—at least for me—is cutting out recessed lights in drywall with any degree of accuracy.

Quick note: The DIY and home improvement content is MyFixitUpLife’s. We’re partnered with Home Depot on this blog and video. They sent us the tool.

I miss recessed light cut outs with near 100% accuracy when I’m installing a ceiling. Drywall guys use rotary tools and are beyond fast and accurate. I’ve even had those get away from me. So I invented a different approach.

I use a line laser to mark the center of the device on the floor. Then I hang the sheet. Next I transfer the mark from the floor back up to the ceiling with the laser. I use my compass to swing a circle.

With the Dremel Home Depot sent me for this basement remodeling project, I nibble away at the line until I can get the plug out. It’s not fast like an ace drywall guy, but it is waaaaay faster and easier than going back later with tape and compound and sanding.

‣ MyFixitUpLife basement remodeling — Finished basements aint easy. I got a lot of mileage out of my Dremel MM45 for drywall install.

I also find more and more uses for my 3M face shield. I bought it for one, specific task. Now I use it all the time for all kinds of stuff: insulation, basement remodeling, power washing, and more.

Mark

A licensed contractor, tool expert, wood and outdoor enthusiast, and elite Spartan Race competitor, he writes about home improvement and tools for national magazines and websites, and teaches hands-on clinics for other remodeling professionals. Check out his book, The Carpenter's Notebook.

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