A Detailed Look on Suspended Ceiling Design Types That Help You in Remodeling
Suspended ceilings are secondary ceiling that hangs below the original or structural ceiling. They not only serve an aesthetic purpose, but they also improve acoustics by hiding pipework and electrical wires. Unlike conventional panels, these suspended ceilings have a sleeker finished look.
Gypsum Board and Plaster
Gypsum board, also known as drywall, is a popular and cost-effective material used in false ceilings. It has the advantage of being flexible and easy to install, providing acoustic properties and fire resistance. The material also does not contain any harmful impurities and offers vapor permeability. It can be molded into various designs, including curved and multi-level structures. Moreover, gypsum boards can be decorated with sculptural details, ledges, niches, and other decorative elements that add to the beauty of a space.
Gypsum wallboard panels have a paper liner wrapped around an inner core made of gypsum plaster. The paper liner is reinforced with fiberglass or a mat of a stronger material such as cellulose, which helps prevent cracking and crumbling of the gypsum core. This material is available in several thicknesses – the 1/2-inch variant is primarily used in residential construction, while the 5/8-inch variant is more common in commercial applications. The thicker variants offer superior rigidity and higher fire resistance.
In addition to the gypsum, wallboard panels have metal furring channels. These are smaller framing members that provide a base for the attachment of gypsum wallboard to one side of some other construction. These channels are typically spaced 16” or 24” on center and may be located either vertically or horizontally. They can be covered by a variety of prefabricated trims, such as corner beads, cornices, and ceiling molding.
When used for the ceiling, a gypsum or plaster grid is suspended from the structure above using cables, ties, and supports. The ceiling is then finished with a lightweight gypsum veneer or a special type of textured coating. The system is usually framed by wood or metal beams that provide rigid fixation.
Metal Grid
A metal grid-suspended ceiling is a great solution for commercial office buildings that require the space above to be closed in with duct work, plumbing, and electrical. These ceilings also allow for easy access to these utilities when necessary and are often a more cost-effective alternative to other types of commercial ceilings.
The most common ceiling system is the standard 15/16-inch metal grid. This system consists of long strips called mains and short strips known as tees that are connected to form a t-bar or tetrahedron grid pattern. This system can be used with panels and tiles that clip or hook onto the suspended runner, making them easy to install and remove.
This type of ceiling is also popular because it offers more visual interest than other types of commercial ceilings. It is a simple way to add an architectural element to any room and can be used with panels that are painted in a single color or with molding designs on the beams and panels for a more ornate look.
One of the biggest advantages of a metal ceiling is that it is fire-resistant. This makes it a good choice for any room that will need to meet fire codes or may contain sensitive equipment like computers. A grid ceiling can also be easily cleaned, which is a huge benefit when it comes to keeping your office clean.
There has been a recent trend towards made-to-order or designer ceiling grids. These include 3-dimensional grids, curved grids, and other twists on the basic standard. This allows you to transform a simple suspended ceiling into a true work of art and is perfect for any large installation project.
Concealed Grid
This type of suspended ceiling provides a clean and attractive appearance by hiding the grid mechanism with acoustical tiles. It also offers excellent fire resistance compared to other types of suspended ceilings. This makes it ideal for service rooms or anywhere frequent maintenance checks and replacements above the ceiling have to be carried out. However, this kind of suspended ceiling can be rather expensive as compared to other varieties.
Exposed grid varieties feature long metal strips called main runners that are interconnected with shorter metal pieces known as tees. This creates a grid system that is then filled with panels to form the second ceiling. These panels are then acoustical and made of mineral fiber blends. They can be highly textured or perfectly smooth, and they come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Some of them are even mold and mildew resistant, a feature that is often desired in hospitals and other high-moisture areas.
Alternatively, the main runners can be replaced with panels that are bonded directly to the existing ceiling or wall. These are often used in places where access to the ceiling for maintenance isn’t a requirement. A good Sydney ceiling installer will be able to filter out suppliers that try and sell you more than you need or a product that doesn’t perform the way you want it to.
Another unique sort of ceiling is the Bandraster system, which is comprised of tees and mains that are available in a range of varying lengths. This allows you to create a variety of different looks and requires the use of specially-sized tiles to fit within the unique grid pattern.
Acoustic Perforated Wood Panels
If you prefer a more traditional look, then wood is a great option for your ceiling. It creates a natural and warm atmosphere and also adds value to the space. You can choose from a wide variety of wooden materials, such as tiles, floorboards, grids, and cubes. Wooden suspended ceilings are also suitable for commercial spaces and can be designed to incorporate lighting or ventilation fixtures.
If your space needs acoustic treatments, then perforated wood panels are a good choice. The acoustic performance of these panels is measured using the Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC). The NRC is an expression of how well a given surface absorbs sound waves. The higher the NRC, the better the acoustic performance. These panels are available in a number of different styles and finishes, such as painted gypsum, fire-resistant MDF, eco-friendly MDF, black MDF, or melamine. The acoustic performance of the panels is determined by the size, placement, and spacing of the holes. They can be arranged in linear, V-shaped, or staggered patterns and are made from prelaminated 16mm thick MDF/HDF boards with an acoustic filler.
The wood used in acoustic timber ceilings is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. This means that the wood is harvested from responsibly managed forests. It is available in a standard set of 15 species, including pine, larch, western red cedar, ash, American yellow linden, and walnut.
The acoustic timber ceilings can be either open or closed. Open systems allow for easy access to utility and maintenance, whereas closed systems are more suitable for areas where aesthetics are a priority. You can also choose from a variety of finishes, such as clear or color coatings.
Modern
Suspended ceilings, also known as dropped ceilings, create a space below a building’s structural floor slab. This space is useful for concealing electrical conduits, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ducts, water pipes, sewage lines, and lighting fixtures. In modern architecture, suspended ceilings are often used to enhance a room’s aesthetic while hiding important and necessary building services.
When it comes to designing a suspended ceiling, there are many options available. One popular option is to use a panel and tile system. This type of ceiling features long metal strips called mains and short pieces known as tees that are joined together to form a grid. These modular panels can be removed to allow for access to ducts or pipelines above.
Another option is to choose a ceiling with a decorative frame. This ceiling has a unique look that will add value to your home. The beauty of this type of ceiling is that it can be designed with a variety of colors and styles. For instance, black coffered ceilings are ideal for contemporary decor.
For a ceiling that is durable and easy to maintain, consider a fire-resistance-rated ceiling. This type of ceiling is made from a special material that resists fire and is designed with panels that provide access for repair and maintenance.
The Chicago Metallic line of suspended ceiling products is an excellent choice for healthcare spaces where safety, cleanliness, and comfort are key considerations. The metal in these ceilings contains no organic compounds that support mold and microbial growth, so they can easily be cleaned and maintained to ensure a safe environment for patients and staff. Additionally, the Chicago Metallic system is available in a wide array of color options to help meet healthcare space design goals.