A dropped ceiling is often the preferred choice in basements, offices, and anywhere else you are looking for a simple ceiling solution you can install yourself. They work especially well in basements where the duct work and electrical wires need to be accessible, as the tiles can easily be moved aside to grant access. Dropped ceilings have come a long way over the years, and there are many attractive tile options available on the market today.
Instructions
1. Mark the highest point on the wall beneath the joists and any duct work on the ceiling. Measure up from the floor to this point and use that measurement to make marks around the room. Connect each mark and use the level to make sure all the lines are level. Make corrections as needed.
2. Install the wall molding that comes in the grid kit. Line the bottom of the molding up with the pencil line and screw into the wall studs using the pre-drilled holes in the molding. When you reach a corner, place the first piece of molding flush with the corner and slide the second piece into the first. Use the wire snips to cut pieces to the correct size.
3. Measure your ceiling tiles so that you know the size to make the grids. Place the grid work onto the molding and use the hardware included with the kit to secure them.
4. Screw eyelets into the ceiling joists and loop a piece of wire through them. Wrap the wire around the grid work where it is suspended below the joists and twist to secure. Use your level so that the grid work does not slope or slant.
5. Place a tile into each section of the grid. To do this you will need to slide the tile in sideways then gently maneuver it into place.
6. Use your utility knife to cut tiles to the correct size for small grids near walls or corners. Cut along a straight edge to score the tile on one side, and then flip and repeat on the other side.
Tags: grid work, correct size, duct work
