Dropped ceiling: A flat ceiling built lower than the original ceiling.


Dropped Ceilings
One of the easiest solutions to covering up an unsightly basement ceiling is to install a dropped ceiling. Dropped ceilings, also called suspended ceilings, consist of a gridwork of metal bars in the shape of an upside-down T, which are suspended on wires from the overhead joists. The metal channels snap together in a regularly-spaced pattern – typically 2' x 2' or 2' x 4' squares – and the squares are then filled with lightweight acoustic ceiling panels by simply dropping the panels into the grid. The panels have different face textures and are typically white, but can be painted any color using standard latex paint. Fluorescent light fixtures of the same dimension can also be inserted into the grids as desired.

A nice advantage is that the easily-removed ceiling panels offer instant access to plumbing, ducts and wiring located above the grid, greatly simplifying repairs or alterations. It's also easy to add insulation on top of the panels, which, along with the panels' acoustic properties, all help to deaden sounds and keep the basement and the rooms above quieter.

The disadvantage is that a dropped ceiling eats into the headroom. Since the grid is suspended on wires and there needs to be enough clearance between the grid and the framing above to install the panels, you'll lose a minimum of about eight inches of headroom.


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Note added at 1 hr 12 mins (2005-03-30 20:09:19 GMT)
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A note, so as to prevent misunderstanding, a \"drop/dropped ceiling\" doesn\'t have to be in a basement. They can be found anywhere and they are usually installed for cosmetic reasons (i.e., to cover cables, wires, water pipes, etc) or to reduce noise, add insulation and so on.

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Note added at 1 hr 14 mins (2005-03-30 20:10:48 GMT)
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Dropping a Ceiling
by Dwight Barnett
Scripps Howard News Service
Q: I would like to have the cathedral ceiling in my front room dropped. What kind of material should I use, and who does this kind of work?--J.D.

A: Generally speaking, a dropped ceiling is a series of metal crossbars that are suspended by wires from the original ceiling. A metal channel is installed on the walls to help support the railing and give the new ceiling a finished appearance. Ceiling tiles are then placed between the gridwork of metal rails.

There are hundreds of patterns and colors to choose from. The tiles can be 2 feet square or measure 2 feet by 4 feet. Indirect lighting panels can be installed to illuminate the room. Visit a home store to see the varied patterns, shapes and colors.

Or you might want an acoustical ceiling or a Sheetrock ceiling installed.

First, new ceiling joists are installed at the height you desire. The ceiling is wired for lighting and fans and then covered with your choice of materials.

This type of work does not require a high level of skill and can be done by a handyman, carpenter or general remodeler. You will want a licensed, qualified residential electrician to do the wiring.

(C. Dwight Barnett is a master inspector certified by the American Society of Home Inspectors. Questions may be addressed to him at PO Box 14091, Evansville, IN 47728, or e-mail [email protected].)