False Ceilings – Types, Advantages and its Materials
False Ceiling
False ceilings have become a part and parcel of residential and commercial properties.
They are majorly used for aesthetic purposes, providing acoustical solutions, and hiding services behind in residential and commercial buildings.
Attached and Hung Ceilings:
Ceiling surfaces are either attached or suspended from supporting systems.
Attached types are easier to install usually of gypsum boards, wood, ceiling tiles attached directly to the frame members or surface.
Hung ceilings are suspended using various supporting systems.
Assembly:
A suspended ceiling assembly consists of
- Metal main runners- form the base of the grid
- Tees – connect the main runners
- Wall angle-attaches to the wall
- Hanger wires
- Perimeter sections
- ceiling tiles
- Light fixtures
Advantages of False Ceilings:
- Improves aesthetics of a room by its colour, forms, designs, patterns, finishes, etc.
- Provides insulation from heat
- Provides sound insulation/aids in acoustical performance
- Unique ceiling designs can be created by using shapes, curves, patterns, etc.
- Ceiling tiles made from fire-rated panels play a part in fire protection measures.
- Light reflectance: ceilings in white reflect more light reducing electricity costs.
- A void is created between the underside of the main roof and the top of the suspended ceiling. This allows you to easily install and conceal HVAC services, fire-fighting, plumbing, electrical, etc.
- Surface mount ceilings hide imperfections in ceilings/covering damaged portions/popcorn ceilings.
- Reduction of echo in cinema halls, concert halls, auditoriums, etc.
Disadvantages of False Ceilings:
- The height of the ceiling is reduced. It is ideal not to install a false ceiling if the ceiling height is less.
- The disadvantage false ceilings are that the pests can go into space and start their breeding which can cause troubles.
- Heavy light fixtures or hangings or any other decorations have taken care of concerning the strength and durability of the ceiling.
- Requires maintenance.
Materials Used for False Ceilings:
Plaster
- One of the oldest forms of ceiling finishes.
- Durable, rigid, fire and moisture resistant.
- Decorative shapes and patterns can be created using plaster with smooth or texture finishes.
Gypsum Board
- Easy to install than plaster and economical.
- Durable, Lightweight, flexible, versatile.
- The surface can be smooth/textured/painted/other materials can be applied such as vinyl,paper,etc.
Plaster of Paris(POP)
- Gypsum, which gives out water when heated, makes POP.
- Since POP hardens instantly when water is added, it is applied to fiberboard or wood base.
- Ornamental designs and patterns can be created using POP
PVC
- PVC(Polyvinylchloride)is an extremely lightweight and durable material used for ceiling tiles. They are easy to maintain.
- These tiles are waterproof and are resistant to termites when compared with wood.
- However, as PVC is a plastic product, they are not eco-friendly.
Paint
- Ceiling surfaces were often painted depicting various stories and art forms in the historical buildings.
- Painting is an economical solution for older buildings and for the ceilings where the height is less.
Wood
- Wooden ceilings are elegant and warm appearance, offer natural tones and acoustical solutions.
- They are available in different colors, styles, shapes, sizes, etc.
- They are made with materials like Solid wood, MDF, Particleboard, etc.
Fabric and Cloth
- Fabric is draped across ceilings mainly used for temporary purposes as it is economical.
Ceramic Tiles
- They are used for decorative accents and resistance to moisture in damp locations such as kitchens and shower areas. Ceramic moldings are available to coordinate with the tiles.
Ceiling Tiles
- Ceiling tiles are ideal for any room in residential/commercial spaces. They are available in various types, colours, styles, materials, Installation methods, and unique designs and patterns.
- Tiles are made of different Materials-Metals, PVC, Styrofoam, Urethane, etc., mineral fiber, etc.
- They can be glued to smooth ceilings or nailed to wood strips or suspended from hanger wires.
Metals
- Metal or tin ceilings were produced in the1800s to imitate ornamental plaster as plaster is susceptible to cracking or damage.
- Tin ceilings were finished with aluminum, brass, bronze, and plastic coatings.
Fiberboard and Fiber/Mineral Reinforced Tiles
- Mineral fiber, fiberglass, mineral Wool-Acoustic tiles-sound insulators, play a part in reducing noise levels of the room.
- Fiber-reinforced tiles are strengthened with wood vegetable fiber, wood waste, reed paper, and agricultural wastes.
- Mineral tiles are reinforced with natural stone, wood, vegetable fiber, bitumen, and tars.
