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What Is A Drop Ceiling

What is the purpose of drop ceiling?

Modern dropped ceilings were initially created to hide the building infrastructure, including piping, wiring, and/or ductwork, by creating a plenum space above the dropped ceiling, while allowing access for repairs and inspections. Drop ceilings may also be used to hide problems, such as structural damage.

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.

What is the difference between drop ceiling and suspended ceiling?

Glossary. A suspended ceiling is the exact same thing as a drop ceiling, also called a dropped ceiling. In other words, the suspended ceiling does not make up a permanent structural foundation, but rather serves as a covering for the more solid framework above.

What do you call a drop ceiling?

2. Suspended Ceiling. A suspended ceiling (sometimes referred to as a dropped ceiling) hangs from a metal grid below the existing ceiling that is already in place.

How much does it cost to put in a drop ceiling?

Drop Ceiling Cost Drop ceilings cost $1,024 and $2,934, or $1,970 on average, depending on the room size and material quality. Labor is $2 to $5 per square foot, while ceiling tiles and grid rails are $3 to $23 per square foot total. Rail covers, insulating tiles, and lighting add more to the price.

What is usually above a drop ceiling?

The area above the dropped ceiling is called the plenum space, as it is usually used for the HVAC air return. The plenum space is also very commonly used to conceal piping, wiring, and ductwork.

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.

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.

Can you Sheetrock 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.

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.

How do I know if my ceiling is dropping?

a loud cracking sound in the ceiling; a sagging or dropping of the plasterboard sheeting and/or the cornice; and. visual cracking and/or small circles or blisters (nail pops) on the ceiling, which are a sign the plasterboard sheeting may be pulling away from the nails or screws.

How much space do you lose with a drop ceiling?

Although most modern drop ceilings call for at least a 3-inch space, it is possible to install them with as little as a half-inch of space. One row of track can be installed at a time, with the ceiling tiles fitted into that track before the next row is installed.

Which ceiling is best for home?

These Are the Best Ceiling Types for Every Home Cove Ceillings. Tasmin Johnson. Barrel-Vaulted Ceilings. Commune Design. Cathedral Ceilings. PHOTO: Tom Ferguson; DESIGN: Arent & Pyke. Ceiling Trays. Jonny Valiant. Coffered Ceiling. ANNIE SCHLECHTER. Speciality Moldings. Studio Razavi. Beamed Ceilings. Flat Ceilings.

Is drop ceiling hard to install?

Drop ceilings are cost-effective, easy to install on your own, and allow you to access ductwork and wires easily after it’s been installed. In order to put in a drop ceiling, you need to first install a grid system of runners to support your ceiling tiles.

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 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.

What is the space above the ceiling called?

If there is a horizontal ceiling that is attached to the tie-beams of a roof, creating a space above it, the space above is called an “attic” whether used as a living, storage, or simply ventilation space.

What is the easiest ceiling to install?

Surface-mount ceiling tiles are easy to install. The grid for this system is much easier that the drop-ceiling grid, and the tiles attach directly to the grid. This is another project that can be done by one person, and in most cases, the tiles that go into place can be easily cut to size using scissors.

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.