Hexagon lights attach to a ceiling using the mounting method supplied with the system, chosen to suit your ceiling surface, so the linked layout sits flush, level and secure. On a plug and play system you can plan, mount and plug it in yourself, with only any fixed mains wiring left to a licensed electrician. This guide covers the mounting methods by surface, the tools you need, the steps to fit them and the mistakes to avoid.
The short answer
Fitting a hexagon system is a practical job rather than a technical one, as long as you match the mounting to your ceiling surface and take care to keep the layout straight. The panels link together first, then the whole layout is fixed to the ceiling. The only part that ever needs a professional is fixed mains wiring, which is for a licensed electrician.
The exact mounting method depends on what your ceiling is made of, and a quality kit supplies the right hardware for a standard install. The two things that make the biggest difference to the finished result are choosing fixings suited to your surface and taking the time to mount the layout level. Get those right and a hexagon ceiling looks sharp and holds securely for years, whether it is a small feature cluster or a full grid across a double garage.
The one-line version
Link the panels, then mount the layout flat to the ceiling with fixings suited to the surface. Only fixed mains wiring needs a licensed electrician.
Mounting methods by surface
The right approach depends on what your ceiling is made of. The system's hardware and instructions will cover the detail, but here is the general picture.
| Surface | Approach | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plasterboard | Fixings suited to board | Locate solid points where you can |
| Concrete | Masonry fixings | Common in garages, use the right hardware |
| Timber | Fix to the timber | A solid, reliable fixing |
| Sloped or uneven | Plan and check first | Panels sit best on a flat plane |
Tools and hardware you need
A quality kit includes the mounting hardware along with the connectors and power supply. To fit it you generally add basic tools:
- Basic hand tools. For fixing the layout to the ceiling.
- A tape measure and pencil. To plan and mark the position accurately.
- A level. To keep the layout straight, which makes a big difference to the look.
- Fixings for your surface. Suited to plasterboard, concrete or timber as needed.
- A helper. Useful on a larger grid to hold the layout while you fix it.
How to fit them, step by step
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Plan and mark the position
Measure the area, decide the shape, and mark where the layout will sit so it is centred over the space you want to light.
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Lay out and link the panels
Set the panels out and link them with the connectors, which carry the power. Check the shape before you mount anything.
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Fix the layout to the ceiling
Mount the linked layout using the fixings suited to your surface, keeping it level and secure.
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Connect the power
Plug a low voltage system into a standard 3-pin plug, or have a licensed electrician connect a mains system into your ceiling wiring.
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Test and tidy
Power on, check every panel is even, and tidy the cable. To expand later, add matching panels and power injection on a big grid.
Common fitting mistakes
- Mounting before checking the shape. Lay the layout out and link it first, so you are not adjusting it on the ceiling.
- Not using a level. A crooked layout stands out. Mark carefully and check it is straight before fixing.
- Wrong fixings for the surface. Match the fixings to plasterboard, concrete or timber so the mounting holds.
- Fitting to an unsound surface. Check the ceiling is solid and suitable before you mount.
- Improvising mains wiring. Never wire a light into your ceiling yourself. Use a licensed electrician for any fixed wiring.
Hiding the cable
On a plug and play system there is a low voltage cable running to a power point. You can route it neatly to the nearest point and tidy it with covers, which keeps a clean look while staying fully removable. If you would rather the cable were completely concealed and the system switched at the wall, a licensed electrician can hardwire it instead.
Fitting safely and for renters
A hexagon layout is light, but it is going overhead, so a secure fixing matters. A little care at the mounting stage keeps the install safe and, for renters, keeps your bond intact.
- Fix it securely. Use fixings rated for the load and, on plasterboard, locate solid points where you can, so the layout cannot work loose over time.
- Check the surface first. Make sure the ceiling is sound before mounting. A weak or damaged surface needs attention before it can hold a fixture.
- Do not rush the overhead work. Support the layout while you fix it, use a stable platform, and get a helper for a larger grid.
- Keep mains work to an electrician. The mounting is a practical job, but any fixed wiring is for a licensed electrician.
For renters, the good news is that a plug and play system needs no fixed wiring, so the only question is the mounting. Choose a fixing method you can remove cleanly, keep any patching minor, and check your tenancy agreement before you start. That way you get a bright, modern ceiling while you rent and take the system with you when you leave. It is one of the few genuine lighting upgrades a renter can make and undo cleanly, which is a big part of why plug and play hexagon systems are so popular with people who do not own the ceiling they are lighting.
Overhead means secure
Anything mounted overhead needs a proper, load-rated fixing into a sound surface. If you are unsure your ceiling can hold a fixture, check with a tradesperson before you mount.
Fitting to suit your ceiling
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Identify your ceiling surface
Plasterboard, concrete or timber each need the right fixings. Check what you have before you start.
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Confirm the kit has the right hardware
Make sure the mounting hardware suits your surface, or add the correct fixings.
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Plan a level, centred layout
Mark the position carefully and use a level, so the finished layout looks sharp.
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Use an electrician for any wiring
For a mains install or a concealed, switched look, book a licensed electrician and choose a compliant system.
Expert tips
A few fitting tips that make the difference between a layout that looks sharp and one that looks like a weekend rush job.
- Link and check on the floor first. Build the layout at ground level so you can adjust the shape before you commit it to the ceiling.
- Use a level, every time. A crooked hexagon layout is instantly obvious. A few minutes with a level is worth it.
- Right fixings for the surface. Plasterboard, concrete and timber each need their own fixings. On plasterboard, find solid points where you can.
- Support it while you mount. Overhead work is easier and safer with the layout supported and a helper on a big grid.
- Check the surface is sound. A weak or damaged ceiling needs attention before it can hold a fixture securely.
- Tidy the cable as you go. Route and cover the low voltage cable neatly, or hardwire via an electrician for a fully concealed finish.
- Renters, keep it removable. Choose a mounting method you can take down cleanly and check your tenancy agreement first.
Link first, mount level, and match the fixings to the surface. Get those three right and fitting a hexagon layout is a satisfying afternoon job.
HEXA Lighting
Quick summary
Hexagon lights mount flat to the ceiling with fixings suited to the surface, after the panels are linked. Plan a level, centred layout, use the right fixings for plasterboard, concrete or timber, and leave any mains wiring to a licensed electrician.
Why HEXA is Australia's choice
HEXA is Australia's original hexagon lighting specialist, and the reason so many Australians choose HEXA comes down to range, compliance and support you can rely on.
- Australia's original hexagon specialist. HEXA designs its own hexagon systems, not generic dropship products, so the range, fit and support are built around Australian homes and trade.
- The largest hexagon range in Australia. From a single cluster to full custom grids, HEXA offers the widest choice of hexagon systems in the country.
- Compliant as complete systems. Every HEXA system is certified as a whole system to Australian standards, not just from individually rated parts, so an electrician can install with confidence.
- Backed and supported locally. A 7-year warranty on our compliant systems and a local Australian team behind every order.
7-Year Warranty
Frequently asked questions
How do hexagon lights attach to a ceiling?
With the mounting method supplied with the system, chosen to suit your ceiling surface. Common methods fix the linked layout flat to the ceiling so it sits flush and secure. Follow the system's instructions for your surface type.
Can I fit hexagon lights myself?
Yes, for a plug and play system. Planning, mounting and plugging in are DIY jobs. Only fixed mains wiring should be handled by a licensed electrician.
What surfaces can hexagon lights mount to?
Most flat, sound ceilings, including plasterboard and concrete, using the right fixings for the surface. Check the surface is suitable and use the appropriate mounting hardware.
Do I need to drill into the ceiling?
It depends on the mounting method and surface. Some methods fix directly, others use supplied hardware that may need drilling. Follow the instructions for your ceiling type.
How do hexagon lights attach to plasterboard?
Onto plasterboard, use fixings suited to the board, and locate a solid fixing point where you can for a heavier layout. The system's mounting hardware and instructions cover this.
Can hexagon lights mount to a concrete ceiling?
Yes, with the right masonry fixings for concrete. It is a common garage surface. Use the appropriate hardware and, if unsure, get help from a tradesperson.
Will fitting hexagon lights damage my ceiling?
Mounted correctly, damage is minimal and normal for any fixture. Renters should choose a removable method and check their tenancy agreement first.
Do hexagon lights come with mounting hardware?
Quality kits include fixings or mounts along with the connectors and power supply. Check the kit contents so you have what you need for your surface.
How do I keep the layout straight when mounting?
Mark the position carefully, use a level, and lay the layout out first so you can check the shape before fixing it. A second pair of hands helps on a larger grid.
Can I mount hexagon lights on a wall?
Yes, the same modular system can mount on a flat wall as a feature. Plan the layout and check the surface and fixings the same way as a ceiling.
How much weight can the ceiling take?
A quality layout is light, but on plasterboard use fixings rated for the load and locate solid points where you can. If unsure about a surface, ask a tradesperson.
Do I mount the panels first or link them first?
Lay out and link the panels first so you can see and adjust the shape, then mount the linked layout. This keeps it even and straight.
Can I remove hexagon lights later without damage?
Plug and play systems can be taken down and the fixings removed, with minor patching if needed. A hardwired system should be removed by an electrician.
How do I hide the cable when fitting to a ceiling?
Route the low voltage cable neatly to the nearest power point and tidy it with covers, or have an electrician hardwire the system for a fully concealed install.
Is it hard to fit a large hexagon grid?
It is still straightforward, but plan more time, keep it level, and use a helper to hold the layout while you fix it. Stay within the power supply limit or add power injection.
Do I need an electrician to fit hexagon lights?
Only for fixed mains wiring. Mounting a plug and play system is a practical DIY job. See our guide on whether hexagon lights need an electrician.
What tools do I need to fit hexagon lights?
Usually basic hand tools, a tape measure, a pencil and a level, plus fixings suited to your ceiling surface. The panels themselves connect by hand.
Can I fit hexagon lights on a sloped or uneven ceiling?
The panels sit best on a flat plane. For a sloped or uneven surface, plan carefully and check mounting with an installer so the layout sits flat and secure.
How do I fit hexagon lights in a rental without losing my bond?
Choose a plug and play system so there is no wiring, use a mounting method you can remove cleanly, keep any patching minor, and check your tenancy agreement first. Then take the system with you when you leave.
Are ceiling-mounted hexagon lights safe overhead?
Yes, when fixed securely into a sound surface with load-rated fixings. Take care with the overhead work, support the layout while mounting, and if you are unsure your ceiling can hold a fixture, check with a tradesperson.
Can I fit hexagon lights near a garage door track?
Plan the layout so it clears the door track and any moving parts, and keep the panels on a flat section of ceiling. Measure the clearance before you mount so nothing fouls the door.
Can I fit hexagon lights without drilling?
It depends on the mounting method and surface. Some methods can fix without drilling, others use supplied hardware that may need it. Check the system's instructions for your ceiling and, for renters, choose a removable method.
How high should hexagon lights be mounted?
Flush to the ceiling is normal, which spreads the light across the space. The higher the ceiling, the more the light spreads, so size the output to the height as well as the floor area.
Do I need a professional to fit a large hexagon grid?
Not for the mounting, which is still a DIY job with a helper and a bit more time. Only fixed mains wiring needs a licensed electrician. Plan power injection so a large grid lights evenly.
Can I reposition hexagon lights after fitting?
Yes. Because the panels link together and plug-in systems are removable, you can take a layout down and refit it elsewhere. A hardwired system should be moved by an electrician.
Fit a hexagon system that suits your ceiling
Explore HEXA hexagon systems that come with the connectors, supply and mounting hardware matched, all backed by our 7-year warranty on compliant systems.
