repairing ceiling around light fitting Ask your questions and find answers on many subjects relating to plastering and dry lining

[mreid2010]

Sorry if this has come up before - I had a ceiling light fitting replaced, and the new ceiling rose is smaller than the old one (about 2-3 cm smaller in diameter). The surface of the plasterboard around the new rose is worn which means the new fitting sits in from the surface of the ceiling, and there is a messy surface around the fitting. No holes in the plasterboard so I would like to know if I can simply fill in the surface around the fitting? If so what type of filler should I use? Or would it be best to find a replacement ceiling rose?
Thanks!

[chris_on_tour2002]

use polyfilla - powder stuff, not readymix.

if your skillset allows, remove the ceiling rose (isolate electrical supply) and if possible pull the wire up through the ceiling out of the way.

mix up some filler and apply with a taping knife (google it if not sure what it is). leave to set then lightly sand. wipe with damp (not wet) cloth to remove excess dust, seal and paint. simples.

as the filler dries you should be able to see a slightly different patch where the hole is for the wire. gently drill or poke through so you can get the wire back through! or drill it gently from above if accessible.

[mreid2010]

Thanks! I've not done any DIY involving electrical fittings, so I'd hesitate to try that I think - though your directions are really clear. Is that something a painter and decorator should be able to do?

[chris_on_tour2002]

"Is that something a painter and decorator should be able to do?" - certainly should.

[TheDoctor4]

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