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How much does it cost to put in a drop ceiling?
Installing a drop ceiling costs $5 to $28 per square foot for labor and materials. Add $2 per square foot if you want insulating panels that go behind the ceiling tiles and up to $1 per linear foot for decorative rail covers. Labor typically costs up to $5 per square foot when hiring a ceiling tile installer near you.
Is it cheaper to drywall or drop ceiling?
Drop ceilings are more expensive to install than drywall making drywall the cheaper option. However, if you can install a drop ceiling by yourself, you can save on labor costs. You should also factor in paint costs for a drywall ceiling and whether you are hiring a professional to install and paint for you.
How many ceiling tiles are in a carton?
Radar Basic White Square Edge Lay-In Ceiling Tile (Carton of 16) (64 sq. ft.).
How long do drop ceiling tiles last?
You might be surprised to know that ceiling tiles are designed to last around ten years. After ten years, if they haven’t been damaged or discolored by some other factor, they may start to become brittle. Older tiles can warp and even break.
How do you make a drop down ceiling look good?
5 Drop Ceiling Makeover Ideas Paint them. Using matte paint in a dark color can help your ceiling recede, which not only makes the tiles less noticeable but gives the impression of taller ceilings. Replace them with tin. Wallpaper them. Minimize the grid.
What is the cheapest way to finish a basement ceiling?
Thin wood paneling — typically 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick — can cover an exposed ceiling, and it’s available in a variety of designs. Fir plywood, hardboard, even oriented-strand-board (OSB) are even more affordable, but these less-expensive options typically require paint or sealant.
What is the cheapest ceiling to install?
Drywall is the most inexpensive ceiling to install at $2 to $3 per square foot. Tray ceilings are equally affordable at $2 to $4 per square foot and so are tongue and groove designs.
Is drop ceiling good for basement?
The Drop or Suspended Tile Ceiling for Basements Also called “drop ceilings”, the use of tiles in a basement is a popular way to complete a ceiling. The main advantage of using a drop ceiling or ceiling tiles is easy access to plumbing and wiring.
What can I use instead of a drop ceiling?
9 Drop Ceiling Alternatives Drywall. Drywall is an excellent option that almost always improves the appearance of any room thanks to it’s simplicity and ease of decorating. Wooden Planks. Beadboard. Ceiling Tiles. Plywood. Corrugated Metal. Stained Glass Ceilings. Faux Wooden Beams.
How thick are drop ceiling tiles?
Ceiling Tile, Width 24 in, Length 48 in, 5/8 in Thickness, Mineral Fiber, PK 12.
Can lights in drop ceiling?
Drop ceiling tiles won’t support the weight of a recessed light by itself. Additional support structures are needed in recessed lighting for a drop ceiling. Wire supports must be installed on each tile where a light will be located.
How do I calculate ceiling tiles?
A good rule of thumb for deciding on the number of tiles you’ll need is to multiply the ceiling width by the ceiling length. Then, multiply the dimensions of your tiles together. So, if you have a 2′ x 2′ tile, you’d get 4. Divide the ceiling surface area by the tile surface area, and multiply by 1.02.
What is the cheapest way to cover a ceiling?
Here are some affordable ways to beautify your home’s ceilings: Paint. It’s a great way to change the perception of your space. Tin Tiles. Hide damage and uneven surfaces with tin ceiling tiles that introduce a vintage vibe. Moldings and More. Tiles or Planks.
How do you replace recessed lighting with drop ceiling tiles?
Follow these steps to add recessed lights to your drop ceiling: Find the right lights. Heat is your biggest concern when choosing recessed lights for your ceiling. Layout your lights. Establish supports. Cut holes. Position the lights. Wire the lights. Finish up.
What drop ceiling is best in basement?
Suspended ceilings are one of the most popular basement ceilings. Consisting of a simple grid and lightweight tiles or panels, a suspended ceiling covers exposed beams, ductwork, and electrical wiring, while allowing easy access for repairs or leaks.
Can you drywall over a drop ceiling?
In some homes, drop ceilings conceal utility pipes, duct work and electrical wiring. Rather than reroute them, you have two choices: Create boxes constructed from wood framing and drywall and install the ceiling drywall around these items, or create your own suspended ceiling with a new, framed ceiling.
Can a drop ceiling be raised?
Raising the ceiling is just a matter of rehanging it at a higher height. The maximum height at which you can hang the wall is 4 inches from the main ceiling, or 6 inches if you plan to install a drop-in fluorescent lighting fixture. Use wire snippers to cut the support wires to the new length for the raised ceiling.
