Seeking temp solution for fixture gap

5 years ago

Hello! I'm hoping to find a temporary solution for the gap between this fixture and a closet ceiling. I've done an extensive amount of work making this closet (and most of the upstairs) look new, however the moisture emanating from this hole is making some of that paint chip. The old paint was chipping too... so this is clearly an old problem. I attributed that chipping to a huge hole caused by a rough re-roofing on this 110+ year old home that happened last year. And compounded by the previous occupants lack of upkeep.

Any suggestions for what I can temporarily plug this hole with while I source a fixture that affixes flush against the ceiling? Thanks!

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Comments (7)

kudzu9
5 years ago
If you have "moisture emanating from this hole," the solution is not to somehow try to plug it. The solution is to investigate the source of moisture and correct it.
Giuseppe Cavaleri
Original Author
5 years ago
In ideal circumstances, yes. That is my first choice. However, I'm not in ideal circumstances now. I can plug the hole now and figure out how to address the other problem later in 2021.
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Giuseppe Cavaleri
Original Author
5 years ago
Other concern: Mold allergy. Which. If I can't breathe hey- the next step isn't going to happen. So, temporary solutions please. Thanks!
Sammy
5 years ago
Why can’t that fixture be pushed up into the attic and secured so that there’s no gap?
Giuseppe Cavaleri
Original Author
5 years ago
Hey Sammy- I tried that first. The hole isn't big enough. The guy who had this place before had some VERY creative solutions to fixing things. When I pulled up carpet I found a lego man and some scrap metal plugging a hole in the hardwood flooring.

I presume this fixture was moved from somewhere else in the house. Whenever that happened he didn't bother to cut a larger hole so the fixture could properly fit. I mean... I don't know how to cut in to plaster so I understand his hesitancy too.

I'm a little sketched out by the wiring here too.... if I did start cutting up the ceiling I might hit one of the many macgyvered repairs & installations over the years.
cat_ky
5 years ago
Are you renting? If so, are you sure the place isnt a fire hazard?
Seabornman
5 years ago
You could buy one of these (or make similar) and caulk it in place: