How to Cut Track Lighting

Published: Jan 27, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Although track lighting comes in standard 4- and 8-foot lengths, you can cut the tracks with a common handsaw to make them fit into smaller installation spaces if needed.

Things You Will Need

  • Step ladder
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Hacksaw
  1. Place a step ladder under the portion of the ceiling where you plan to install the track lighting. Measure the area with a tape measure to determine the proper length of the track.

  2. Lay the track on a flat surface. Use a pencil and the tape measure to mark the area where you need to cut it.

  3. Slide the track over the edge of the table until the pencil mark hangs off. Pick up a hacksaw and position it on top of the pencil mark. Hold the top of the track firmly with one hand and carefully saw through the pencil line with the hacksaw until it splits in two.

The Drip Cap

  • Track lighting consists of a long, thin piece of plastic that is installed on the ceiling to which movable spotlights are attached.
  • Although track lighting comes in standard 4- and 8-foot lengths, you can cut the tracks with a common handsaw to make them fit into smaller installation spaces if needed.
  • Pick up a hacksaw and position it on top of the pencil mark.
Kimberly Johnson

Kimberly Johnson is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in various online publications including eHow, Suite101 and Examiner. She has a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia and began writing professionally in…

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