The panels and tiles which make up the surface part of a dropped ceiling are made from any number of materials. Tiles made from spun mineral fibres or fibreglass can help in soundproofing and improving a room’s acoustics. Cork, tin and plastic are also commonly used. The frames and grid arrays for dropped ceilings are generally made of metal.
What is the best material for ceiling tiles?
Types of Acoustic Ceiling Tiles
- Mineral Fiber Tiles. High density mineral fiber is formed into tiles using a high-pressure binder. ...
- Fiberglass Tiles. Glass strands are pressed into a tile using a binder. ...
- Wood Tiles. A wood veneer is applied to a hard backing panel with an acoustical pad adhered to the back of the panel.
- Foam Tiles. ...
How to make drop ceiling tiles look better?
The Best Ways to Dress Up a Drop Ceiling
- Copycat Coffered. Want to recreate the elegant indentations of a coffered ceiling without the effort? ...
- Sublime Styrofoam. Lightweight square Styrofoam ceiling can tiles, available in a range of sizes and engraved with a host of patterns from florets to geometric shapes, can suit a ...
- Faux Metal Marvel. ...
- Beadboard Beauty. ...
- Burlap Beauty. ...
What materials are used to make ceiling tiles?
What are Ceiling Tiles made of?
- Mineral fibre ceiling tiles. These are sometimes referred to as fibreglass ceiling tiles (fibreglass being a popular form of mineral fibre), or acoustical ceiling tiles (owing to their soundproofing qualities).
- Metal Ceiling Tiles. ...
- Gypsum Ceiling Tiles. ...
- Wood Ceiling Tiles. ...
- Cork Ceiling Tiles. ...
How to replace drop ceiling tiles with drywall?
Repair the Original Ceiling
- Repair the damaged ceiling, if possible. If the original drywall or plaster sags, screw plaster washers or replace sections of drywall.
- Scrape any debris from the nail and screw holes that held the drop ceiling system. ...
- Patch the holes with joint compound. ...
- Sand the compound smooth. ...
What are suspended ceiling panels made of?
They are made from a blend of mineral fibers, perlite, clay, and even recycled newsprint. Rigid faced fiberglass panels installed above a wood grille ceiling. Faced Fiberglass panels come in a variety of products.
What is usually under drop ceiling?
A drop or dropped ceiling is the ceiling that is hung below the main (structural) ceiling. It may also be referred to as a false or suspended ceiling, and is a staple of modern construction and architecture. The area above the dropped ceiling is called the plenum space, as it is usually used for the HVAC air return.
Are drop ceiling tiles asbestos?
Ceilings with asbestos tiles may be recognized by several names, including drop ceilings, suspended ceilings and acoustic ceilings. Asbestos ceiling tiles were often produced in 2×2-foot and 2×4-foot sizes.
What is the difference between a drop ceiling and a suspended ceiling?
A suspended ceiling is the exact same thing as a drop ceiling, also called a dropped ceiling. These terms refer to a type of ceiling paneling that hangs below the main structural ceiling.
Can you replace a drop ceiling with drywall?
If your drop ceiling is looking a little shabby and you're ready for a change, the first step is to remove the suspended ceiling in the opposite order it was originally installed: tiles, lights and metal grid. Once removed, you can repair the original ceiling, if possible, or add new sheets of drywall.
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.
When did asbestos stop being used?
Houses built between 1930 and 1950 may have asbestos as insulation. Asbestos may be present in textured paint and patching compounds used on wall and ceiling joints. Their use was banned in 1977.
How do I test my ceiling for asbestos?
The best way to determine if asbestos is present is to have your ceiling professionally tested. You can have an expert come and collect your sample for you or you can collect it yourself and send it to the lab for testing.
How much exposure to asbestos will cause mesothelioma?
There is no safe amount of asbestos exposure. Even one-time asbestos exposure can lead to asbestos-related diseases such as pleural thickening, lung cancer or mesothelioma.
Can a drop ceiling hold a person?
One thing to be aware of is that dropped ceilings tend to be very flimsy and there's not much holding them up besides a thin aluminum grid. This might not support the weight of an adult, and it would be harder to crawl/climb on than the wooden beams that support the ceilings of older buildings and many residences.
Why do people put drop ceilings in their basement?
The primary advantage of a drop ceiling is accessibility! Simply pop a panel out to access wiring, mechanical, drain lines, and water lines. In the event of a water leak, a ceiling tile can be easily replaced while drywall must be cut, patched, sanded, primed, and painted.
What are the different types of drop ceilings?
Drop ceilings are also known as T-bar ceilings, false ceilings, and suspended ceilings. There are two types of drop ceilings: grid and drywall. Most building codes require the height of drop ceilings to be at least 7 feet tall, in most locations.
What are the three types of grids used in suspended ceilings?
What are the Main Types of Grids Used in Suspended Ceiling...Exposed grid. This is the classic look for a suspended ceiling grid. ... Concealed grid. ... Semi-concealed grid. ... Plank system. ... Sub-grid system.
Can a drop ceiling hold a person?
One thing to be aware of is that dropped ceilings tend to be very flimsy and there's not much holding them up besides a thin aluminum grid. This might not support the weight of an adult, and it would be harder to crawl/climb on than the wooden beams that support the ceilings of older buildings and many residences.
What is a ceiling suspension system?
Suspended ceilings (also referred to as dropped ceilings, drop ceilings or false ceilings) are secondary ceilings suspended from a structural floor slab above, creating a void between the underside of the floor slab and the top of the suspended ceiling.
Why do basements have drop ceilings?
The primary advantage of a drop ceiling is accessibility! Simply pop a panel out to access wiring, mechanical, drain lines, and water lines. In the event of a water leak, a ceiling tile can be easily replaced while drywall must be cut, patched, sanded, primed, and painted.
Highlights
Drop ceilings are also known as T-bar ceilings, false ceilings, and suspended ceilings.
What Is a Drop Ceiling?
T-bar ceiling, false ceiling, and suspended ceiling are all synonyms for a drop ceiling. Although it has many names, a dropped ceiling is a secondary ceiling installed beneath the primary ceiling to cover up utilities, cosmetic reasons, or create better acoustics and ventilation.
Types of Drop Ceilings
Now that we understand the purpose of drop ceilings, let’s review the two variations of styles.
Where are Drop Ceilings Used?
You can find drop ceilings in many locations, but you probably recognize them from commercial buildings and stores. You can spot them in some homes, but they’re more common in business, medical, or commercial spaces where they hide unsightly essentials like pipes, air ducts, or wiring.
How Low Is a Drop Ceiling?
One factor to consider when installing a drop ceiling is that you will lose some of the room’s height since you’re adding a second ceiling. However, most modern drop ceilings have a 3-inch space between the tracking grid and the rafters, while older systems may require more wiggle room.
How Much Do Drop Ceilings Cost?
The average homeowner will spend $1,815 to install a drop ceiling. The average range sits between $1,030 and $2,930. That range includes variables like the size of the room and the cost of materials and labor for a professional suspended ceiling installer.
What are dropped ceilings made of?
For many years, dropped ceilings were made of basic white tiles, but modern innovations now offer a plethora of options in sizes, colors, materials (including retro designs and faux leather, wood, or metal), visual effects and shapes, patterns, and textures as well as support systems and ways to access the plenum. Custom runs of specialty ceiling tiles can be done at relatively low cost compared with the past.
What is the purpose of dropping ceilings?
Acoustic balance and control was another early objective of dropped ceilings. A noisy room can overstimulate occupants, while a too quiet interior may seem dull and uninviting.
Why are ceiling tiles used in Japan?
Dropped ceilings and ceiling tiles were being used in Japan for aesthetic reasons as early as the Muromachi Period (1337 to 1573). These could be made with simple planks, or coffered. Blackfriars Theater in London, England, built in 1596, had dropped ceilings to aid acoustics.
How much clearance is needed for a ceiling?
In general, a minimum clearance of 100 to 200 millimetres (4 to 8 in) is often needed between the lowest obstruction and the level of the ceiling grid.
Why do people use dropped ceilings?
Drop ceilings may also be used to hide problems, such as structural damage.
What is stretch ceiling?
A stretch ceiling is a suspended ceiling system and it is made of three main components: 1 Perimeter track – Aluminium or plastic PVC 2 Membrane – Typically a PVC or nylon material, lightweight sheets are made to size/shape from roll material. Can be printed or painted to achieve the desired effect. 3 Harpoon or catch – This is ultrasonically welded to the edge of the membrane or sheet in the factory, the edging slots into the perimeter track to keep the ceiling in place.
How big is a suspension grid?
In the United States and its neighboring countries, the cell size in the suspension grids is typically either 2 by 2 feet (610 mm × 610 mm) or 2 by 4 feet (610 mm × 1,220 mm), and the ceiling tiles, light fixtures, and fluorescent light tubes are the same size.
What is drop ceiling?
Drop ceilings have come a long way since their days as a convenient cover-up for unsightly basement wires and pipes. Today’s drop ceilings offer high-style decorating options for expressing your personal taste. With a wide array of contemporary textures, patterns, and designer finishes, it’s easy to create a look that you’ll love.
How far down do you hang a drop ceiling?
Forget the myth that drop ceilings lower room height. Today’s drop ceiling grid hangs down only three inches from the existing ceiling. Installation is a straightforward job that any skilled DIYer can do by attaching hanger wires to the ceiling joists with nails or screws and then suspending the main beams and cross tees. Then 24” x 24” or 24” x 48” panels are inserted into the open metal grid, and the drop ceiling is complete.
How far down does a drop ceiling grid hang?
Today’s drop ceiling grid hangs down only three inches from the existing ceiling. Installation is a straightforward job that any skilled DIYer can do by attaching hanger wires to the ceiling joists with nails or screws and then suspending the main beams and cross tees.
What Types of Ceiling Materials Are There?
Plaster, gypsum, paneling, and tin are a few ceiling materials available. You’ll also have the option of a flat, smooth surface for your ceiling or one with texture. If you have a shaped ceiling rather than one with flat surfaces, your material options change.
Types of Ceiling Materials You Should Know
New options in ceiling materials like PVC can create a unique look on a small budget, but many of the classic materials remain favorites.
Things to Consider
Here are some things to think about when you’re trying to decide which ceiling materials will work best in your home:
Frequently Asked Questions
Plywood is one of the least expensive wood ceiling materials. The panels are easier to cut than hardwood and lighter. Plywood’s hard surface works well for laying ceiling tiles, applying a texture, or painting.
Which Ceiling Materials Will You Choose?
We’ve covered the most commonly used ceiling materials and talked about uncommon ones that work on finished or unfinished ceilings. Remember to use one appropriate for your room and the ceiling shape.
What is the texture of a drop ceiling?
A delicately embossed pattern on a drop ceiling is an idea that creates a visual rhythm in the room that leads the eye from one design element to another. Mix in natural woods, leaves, and greenery.
What is black coffered ceiling?
Black coffered ceilings are a look that works well in contemporary decor. When used in a suspended ceiling system, the edge detail of these 24" X 24" ceiling tiles allows the grid to disappear so that nothing interferes with the dramatic style.
What are the pros and cons of a drop ceiling?
There are pros and cons to traditional drop ceilings. 1 /11. Drop ceilings— secondary surfaces that hang one to four feet below the main ceiling—are useful for hiding wires, plumbing, and HVAC equipment throughout the house like in your unfinished basement. Plus, the lower room height may improve indoor circulation and reduce heating/cooling costs.
How much does Armstrong ceiling cost?
Even easier, though, is this pre-finished wood-look plank system from Armstrong Ceilings that runs only about $2.50 to $4.19 per square foot. Like the company's other drop ceiling solutions, these tongue-and-groove planks install over existing 15/16" grid systems.
What are perforated ceiling tiles?
An ideal addition to a contemporary or rustic entertainment or multipurpose room, perforated ceiling tiles, sold in solid colors and wood-like finishes, add visual interest while boosting acoustics. (High-frequency sound waves that enter through the holes get absorbed and dampened by the tile backing.) These lightweight metal or melamine tiles ($2 to $4 per square foot from brands like TopTile at The Home Depot) replace existing tiles in a drop ceiling; simply pop each tile into the ceiling grid and secure with metal clips or screws.
How much does a Styrofoam ceiling tile cost?
At $1 to $3.50 per square foot from brands like Anet (which you can find on Amazon ), the tiles are certainly affordable, and installation is effortless: Just apply Styrofoam-friendly glue (e.g., Glue10, available on Amazon) to the back of the tiles and stick them onto the ceiling surface.
How much does it cost to put laths on a ceiling?
You can’t beat the warmth of real wood, especially in a rustic or farmhouse setting, so why not spruce up your ceiling with laths? Sold at home centers for $3 to $5 per square foot, these thin, short strips do take some effort to install: You’ll cut wooden boards to size (or buy pre-cut laths), lay each into a ceiling opening, mount it to the suspension with screws, then repeat so that the laths snugly fit side by side in each ceiling opening.
How much does burlap cost per square foot?
At $2 to $5 per square foot at fabric stores, burlap—a coarse fabric woven from jute or hemp—is a budget-friendly way to add unfussy style to a drop ceiling in a bohemian or shabby chic interior. As a bonus, burlap softens harsh lighting and dampens echoing to achieve a more intimate ambience with better acoustics. For a billowing effect, run a burlap roll from one end of the room to the other, securing it to each ceiling grid along the way for a canopy-like effect.
Can you remove a drop ceiling?
Remove your drop ceiling to apply panel by panel, and you won't have to spend the full time doing work above your head as you would with a traditional ceiling. Note: Wallpaper glue is extremely sticky, so renters and commitment-phobes should use removable wallpaper that peels off easily.
What Is It?
What Is It Used for?
Where Is It used?
Why Is It used? What’s Special About It?
How Is It used?
When was/is It Used
Many Style Options
- Drop ceilings used to be only made of basic white tiles, but there are now tons of different style options at your fingertips. Drop ceilings are now made with various types of materials and come in a variety of shapes, colors, textures, and more. Many solutions can even be customized to suit the needs of the user perfectly.
Overview
Drop out ceilings
Approved drop out (or drop-out) ceilings allow the installation of a dropped ceiling beneath existing fire sprinklers because the tiles, sometimes called melt-out ceiling tiles, are heat-sensitive and are designed to fall from the dropped ceiling suspension grid during a fire, allowing the sprinklers to spray their water.
Drop out ceiling tiles can add to the aesthetic appeal of a ceiling since the fire sprinklers are hid…
History
Design objectives
Suspension grids
Stretch ceiling
Safety issues
Advantages