Removing an outdoor light cover can seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a quick and easy process. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to safely and effectively remove different types of outdoor light covers.
What You’ll Need
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Wire cutters/strippers
- Electrical tape
- Replacement sealant (optional)
Before getting started, make sure to turn off the power at the circuit breaker to avoid getting electrocuted. It’s better to be safe than sorry when dealing with electrical wiring.
Removing a Glass Dome Light Cover
Glass dome covers are common for porch lights and security lights. Here are the steps for removing this type of light cover:
Step 1: Unscrew the Mounting Screws
Use a phillips head screwdriver to unscrew the two or three screws that connect the light base to the mounting plate. These are usually located at the outer edges.
Be careful whenloosening the screws, as the glass dome may pop off. Hold it steadywith your other hand when removing the final screw.
Step 2: Detach the Dome Cover
Once the screws are out, gently pry the glass dome away from the base. You may need to twist or rock it back and forth to break the seal.
Check for any wires still connecting the dome to the base and detach them before fully removing the dome.
Step 3: Remove the Gasket
There will likely be a rubber or foam gasket between the dome cover and the base. This ensures a watertight seal, so make sure to remove it before installing a new cover.
Carefully peel away the gasket material and clean any residual debris or old caulk from the base. Now you’re ready to install a new light dome.
Step 4: Replace the Gasket and Dome
When installing the new dome, replace the gasket first. Apply a fresh bead of outdoor-rated caulk or sealant around the edge of the base. Firmly press the gasket into place.
Carefully align the glass dome cover and attach the screws to secure it. Make sure there is a tight seal all the way around.
And that’s all there is to replacing a glass dome light cover! Just reverse the process to install a new dome.
Removing an Acrylic Light Cover
Plastic or acrylic light covers are affordable options commonly found in outdoor settings. Here are the steps for removing an acrylic cover:
Step 1: Remove the Screws
Acrylic domes are usually held in place with screws around the outer edge. Use a phillips head screwdriver to remove these screws and detach the dome.
You may find between two to five screws, so make sure to remove them all before prying off the dome.
Step 2: Detach the Dome
Once the screws are out, gently pull the acrylic dome away from the base. Rocking it back and forth helps break the seal.
Be careful not to crack the plastic dome during removal. Work slow and apply even pressure.
Step 3: Clean the Base Plate
Examine the fixture base and remove any old caulk, seals or gaskets. Acrylic domes typically don’t have a rubber gasket, but may have caulk or other sealing products.
Clean the base plate so the new cover can firmly attach and seal out moisture.
Step 4: Install New Dome
Once prepped, simply attach the new acrylic dome with the screws. Make sure they are screwed in evenly to prevent cracking. You can apply outdoor-rated caulk around the edge for an extra seal if needed.
And that takes care of an acrylic fixture. Always take care when handling these plastic domes to avoid cracks and breaks.
How to Remove a Square/Rectangle Light Cover
Square or rectangular light covers have a more industrial look and are common in commercial settings. Here’s how to remove them:
Step 1: Take Out the Screws
Use a phillips head screwdriver to remove any screws along the edges or corners of the fixture. This detaches the cover from the base.
If you don’t see any visible screws, look for small screw head covers that can be popped off with a flathead screwdriver.
Step 2: Detach the Lens Cover
Once all the screws are removed, separate the plastic or glass lens cover from the fixture base. Wiggle it loose and pull it off.
If it’s stuck on with sealant, you may need to gently pry it off with a flathead screwdriver. Just take care not to crack the lens.
Step 3: Clean Surface Areas
Thoroughly clean the cover frame and lens of any old caulk, dirt and debris. Scrub with a wire brush or scouring pad if needed.
You want a clean surface for the new cover to adhere and seal properly. Remove any remaining screws or brackets as well.
Step 4: Install New Cover
Simply place the replacement lens cover into the frame, aligning the holes for the screws. Secure the screws evenly into place along the edges.
If desired, apply outdoor-rated caulk around the frame for an extra waterproof seal. And that takes care of a square/rectangle fixture!
How to Remove a Metal Light Cover
Metal light covers made of aluminum, steel or other metals need a few different removal techniques. Follow these tips:
Step 1: Remove Screws and Brackets
Metal covers typically have screws along the edges that attach to brackets on the base. Using a phillips head screwdriver, remove all perimeter screws.
This will detach the cover from the base. Be careful during removal, as the cover will be loose once the screws are out.
Step 2: Pry Off the Cover
With the screws out, you can now work the metal cover off the fixture. This usually requires gently prying around the edges with a flathead screwdriver.
Take your time, working on one side at a time. Don’t force it too quickly to avoid bending the cover.
Step 3: Clean Surfaces
Give the metal cover and base a thorough cleaning, since metal fixtures attract dirt and debris.
Use a wire scrub brush or steel wool to scrub off any grime, rust or old caulk residue that may affect the seal with the new cover.
Step 4: Install New Cover
When ready to install the replacement, attach it to the base brackets with the perimeter screws. Tighten the screws evenly for a secure hold.
Caulking around the edges also helps prevent leaks on metal light covers. And that’s all it takes for metal fixture removal.
Removing a Cover with No Screws
Some outdoor light covers attach with no screws at all. Here’s how to remove these:
Step 1: Locate Retaining Clips
There are typically small plastic retaining clips that hold the cover in place. Look around the perimeter for these.
You need to depress the clips so the cover detaches from the base. Insert a small flathead screwdriver into each clip to press down.
Step 2: Pry Off the Cover
Once the retaining clips have been loosened, begin prying the cover away from the base using the flathead screwdriver.
Gently work your way around the entire edge, loosening it up little by little until it detaches.
Step 3: Clean and Remove Caulk
Give the fixture base and cover an inspection and thorough cleaning. Remove any old caulk or adhesive so the new cover can seal properly.
A razor blade can help scrape off any remaining sealant or glue on the surfaces.
Step 4: Install New Cover
Carefully align and press the new cover into place so the retaining clips click and secure it. You may want to apply new caulk around the edge as an extra sealing measure.
And that’s all there is to it! Just be gentle when prying, as the lack of screws means the cover is more susceptible to cracking.
How to Remove Rusty Light Covers
Rust poses an extra challenge when removing outdoor light covers. Here are some tips for dealing with rust:
Use Penetrating Oil
If the screws holding the cover in place are rusted and won’t budge, apply penetrating oil and let it soak in for 10-15 minutes first. The oil helps loosen up rust.
Beware of Rust Stains
As you handle and pry off a rusty cover, wear gloves to prevent rust stains on your hands. Rust can also permanently stain clothing.
Remove Rust Scale
Use a wire brush or steel wool to scrub off any flaky rust scale along the screw holes or edges where the cover attaches. Remove all loose rust first.
Check for Rust Holes
Inspect the cover for any rust holes or thin spots. Covers with extensive rust may need to be replaced instead of just cleaned.
Dealing with rust just takes a little extra time and elbow grease. But with some careful attention, you can get even rusty light covers removed safely.
How to Dispose of Old Light Covers
Once you’ve removed the old outdoor light cover, make sure it’s disposed of properly:
- Recycle metal or plastic covers – Many recycling centers accept old metal and plastic light covers. This keeps them out of landfills.
- Check for hazardous materials – If the cover contained mercury or other hazardous substances, look up special hazardous waste disposal in your area. Don’t just throw it in the trash.
- Confirm it’s inoperable – Make sure you have fully disconnected the light from the wiring before disposal. You don’t want to accidentally throw out a functioning cover.
- Break it down – Consider breaking down the cover with hammer or cutters if intact so it takes up less space in the trash. Wear eye protection when breaking.
By responsibly disposing of light covers, we help protect the environment and prevent accidents. It takes some extra effort but is well worth it.
Safety Tips for Light Cover Removal
When taking on an outdoor lighting project, safety should always come first. Here are some key tips to remove covers safely:
- Turn off power at the circuit breaker before starting any work. Make sure wires are de-energized.
- Use a fiberglass ladder when elevated. Don’t stand on chairs, buckets or other unstable surfaces.
- Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling broken shards, metal or glass.
- Wear eye protection in case shards, shards or debris fly up.
- Inspect for insects, nests or animals prior to reaching into fixtures.
- Use properly-rated tools and watch for sharp edges.
- Bring any wiring issues to a professional electrician rather than attempting repair.
- Carefully support heavy covers during removal and carry-down.
- Dispose of old covers responsibly based on material and hazards.
Putting safety first means taking the extra time to work cautiously. But it’s essential to prevent shocks, falls and other accidents.
Common Problems When Removing Light Covers
While removing outdoor fixture covers, a few issues can pop up. Here are some common problems and solutions:
Problem: Screws are stuck in place
Solution: Apply penetrating oil and let it soak 15-20 minutes before trying to loosen.
Problem: Cover is sealed on with caulk that won’t detach
Solution: Use a razor blade to carefully slice through the caulk seal before prying.
Problem: Dome cover cracks during removal
Solution: Wiggle and twist gently rather than prying too forcefully.
Problem: Retaining clips won’t depress to detach
Solution: Use a flathead precision screwdriver to help pop the clips free.
Problem: Rust prevents access to screws or edges.
Solution: Scrub rust away with a wire brush and use a pick to clear screw heads.
With some patience and finesse, most stuck covers can be removed successfully. Just take care not to damage fixtures or crack lenses in the process.
When to Call a Professional
While many DIY-ers can handle basic outdoor light cover installation, some circumstances call for hiring a professional electrician:
- If dealing with rust, hazards or complex wiring.
- If the fixture falls from an elevated height during work.
- If the cause of failure points to underlying electrical issues.
- If you need to fully rewire a light or run new wiring.
- If the work requires braving extreme heights or precarious locations.
- If you simply feel overwhelmed by the complexity and scale of the job.
There’s no shame in seeking professional help when the safety risk and degree of difficulty are high. The cost of hiring an electrician is well worth avoiding hazards or even legal liability from improper work.
Conclusion
Replacing an outdoor light cover is a doable DIY project for most homeowners. By following safe practices and using the right tools, the cover can be removed successfully.
Just take care to turn off power, work cautiously at heights, and dispose of the old cover properly. With some patience and persistence, you can achieve a well-lit outdoor space with fresh new fixtures.
So don’t let an old, damaged light cover go unchanged. Roll up your sleeves and tackle this project using the techniques above. Just keep safety as the number one priority throughout the process.