Hello, I was wondering what is the best tool to use for cutting a plaster cement ceiling for ceiling fan installation.. Should I use a diamond blade in a circular saw set to debt or is it better to use a sawsall to cut cement ? The metal lattice/lath is something I fear will ruin the diamond circular blade, but thinking it will be less vibration ( don't want the whole ceiling letting loose) I know I might have to zip in some straightedging either way for a clean straight cut upside down. Maybe try both tools and a chisel as needed?

Never mind, I figured it out without any online tuturiols.. just years of working with the right tools for the right job. Used a couple of ax demolition blades and burnt two doing about 15ft linier ft of cement and wire mesh/plaster ceiling.. but it was well worth it considering the task.. Also the diamond blade circular I tried but didn't want to f up that diamond blade on the metal mesh lath.. at least now I got it open for the electrician.. yup the chisel /circular saw and most of all my portacable recipricating saw !

Good for you Jon... I was waiting for others to answer you, but the fact is that you just got to bite the bullet and go for it... like you did!

Talk soon... MARK

Yeah mass, the old process of illimination for hands on use and knowledge of tools and equipment. Next time I'll be sure to carry a few cement cutting carbide sawsall blades. Now I will need to repair plaster holes on the wall I had to open for this electrician.. I'll go over after leveling using furring strips as needed to phase in over the existing ceiling with mold /water resistant GP fiberglass coated gypsum board.. for tape and spackle and eventually paint.. the walls however I will screw puzzle the pieces needed of the 1/2 hardibacker and skimcoat using a sandable plaster patch compound.