What is Drop Ceilings

The drop ceilings also known as acoustical ceilings or suspended ceiling consists of a hanging metal grid which is suspended by wires from an original ceiling. Then, within this structure, a number of acoustical panels are literally dropped into the channels to form a solid surface. They are often reinstalled to cover up exposed plumbing and wires that run underneath a ceiling's structure. Although they are typically seen in public buildings, such as offices and schools, they can also be very useful inside one's own home. Drop ceilings provide an easy and aesthetically pleasing finish to commercial and residential spaces while allowing access to mechanical and plumbing systems.

Installation of drop ceilings are very easy, a carpenter or any professional installers will determine the maximum ceiling height and install the angled perimeter molding or ceiling tile frame around the room. The runners are then installed 4 feet apart and perpendicular to the joists. Then, cross tees are run perpendicular to the runners. This creates the sections in which the ceiling tile will be installed.

A classic dropped ceiling consists of a grid-work of metal channels in the shape of an upside-down "T", suspended on wires from the overhead structure. These channels snap together in a regularly spaced pattern – typically a 2×2 or 2×4 foot grid or 600×600 mm grid. Every cell is filled with lightweight "tiles" or "panels" which simply drop into the grid. Drop ceilings can be selected with a variety of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, or mineral fibers, and can come in almost any color. Some are plain while others are rough in texture. Light fixtures, HVAC air grilles, and other fixtures are available which can fit the same space as a tile for easy installation. Most tile material is easily cut to allow fixtures in other shapes, such as incandescent lights, speakers, and fire sprinkler heads.

If one has an unfinished area in the house, like the basement room, instead of installing costly drywall overhead, drop ceilings may be more practical. Since drop ceilings do not consist of much construction and the materials themselves are economical, they are very efficient and cost-effective. Plus they offer other hidden benefits. Drop ceilings advantage allows one to access the mechanical systems above by removing tiles. Drop ceiling also provide sound and heat insulation, and are easy to repair if a tile is damaged. Concrete basements create echoes. Laundry rooms are often noisy. And if one has a home theater, it iss crucial to control the sound. Therefore, drop ceilings are the perfect answer. Due to their fibrous make-up, drop ceilings are wonderful acoustical absorbers which can soak up any residual noise.

Though the drop ceiling or acoustical paneling is light and portable, they are also sturdy if one spend in some water or fire-resistant products. Plus, if there is ever water damage, they're also easily replaceable. Drop ceiling will now be partially hollow, it's important to install additional insulation overhead. Some foam insulation can usually do the job, but one can also purchase insulated panels for even more noise absorption.

A drop ceiling can feel a slight stuffy one does not want the home to appear like an office. A drop ceiling will now be slightly lowered in terms of head space. There are some tips given by the experts to expand and brighten a room. One should not hesitate to decorate the drop ceiling with some paint. Paint the metal grid work in between the panels for a distinctive outline effect, or one can just buy designer panels that can create an attractive overhead pattern. Don't just stick to drop ceilings either, mount some mirrored panels to make a space look bigger. One can even install glass skylight-panels designs but it is a bit expensive, that open the room to outdoor light.  

Lighting is significant, though drop ceilings are often use florescent lights, any buried lighting will work as long as they're steadily attached to the metal bars.