"blueman" wrote in message
...
I need to run a wire from a switch on the wall up the wall and across
the ceiling to a new overhead light. (Note that unfortunately, the
joists run perpendicular to the direction that I need to traverse the
ceiling)

Doing so presents the following two problems for me:
1. How do I make the right angle turn through the top plate and into
the ceiling joist bay?

2. How do I go through the joists as I traverse the ceiling from the
wall edge to the center light location?

Note I don't have the option of using an unfinished attic or basement
to help me. I am trying to avoid ripping up more plaster than I need to.

I plan on buying a long flexible 1/2" bit which I believe should at
least help me with #2, though I'm a bit short on the details of where
I drill the entry and exit holes and how I achieve the right bend and
angle to go through the middle of the joist.

However, I am a lot more stumped about how I make the right angle
transition from the wall bay into the ceiling joist bay.

Could anybody give me some detailed pointers and/or point me to any
online videos? (I tried googling but found only general suggestions
such as using a flex bit)


*Those long flexible bits are very nice, but I rarely use them. There are
usually obstacles such as wiring, water pipes and duct that the bit can
damage by drilling blindly. What I do is make an access hole in the center
between joists and drill each one with a regular ship auger bit. I cut the
holes at a 45 degree angle and am able to put the pieces back. For plaster
and lathe I think that you might be better off using a carbide hole saw or
an angle grinder. Before you cut anything you should consider how you will
patch the holes.

My first choice to run a wire up from a switch into the ceiling is to make a
long narrow hole on the wall below the ceiling so my drill with bit will fit
in the space. Then I drill up at an angle towards where I want my wire to
go. Another option is to notch the top plate lay the wire in and put a
steel nail plate over the wire. I prefer the first method because it is
easier to patch when I cut the drywall at a 45 degree angle and I can
sometimes avoid cutting into the ceiling if other factors are good.