Ceiling panels must be removed to gain access to hidden wiring.
Drop ceilings may look attractive --- until you have to replace one or more panels. Removing a panel from a drop ceiling may look easy, but it must be done in a certain way. Regardless of the type of drop ceiling you have, the panels are removable, allowing for cleaning or replacement. Checking the panels occasionally also ensures that nothing is trapped or damaged above the ceiling.
Instructions
1. Stand a ladder underneath the panel you want to take down. Climb the ladder to the second step from the top. The ladder may become unstable, and the chance of injury increases beyond this height.
2. Place your hands palms up on the face of the panel. Position your hands near the edges. Make sure your hands are across from each other to keep the panel level. Push up on the panel with both hands simultaneously.
3. Lift the panel until it clears the framework completely.
4. Move the panel partially either forward or backward. Flip the panel while holding it so the narrow side faces you.
5. Spin the sideways panel so the narrow end is facing you. If the panel is square, proceed to Step 7; otherwise, skip to Step 8.
6. Position the panel so the corners of the panel run perpendicular to the opposing corners of the framework. The bottom edge of the panel should form a line between the opposing corners of the framework.
7. Position the panel so the short end runs parallel to the longer sides of the framework.
8. Bring the panel back down through the hole. Keep the panel centered as you lower it. Lower the panel until it clears the framework.
9. Lower the panel down the ladder to a soft surface, or hand it off to an assistant. Doing so avoids damaging the panel if you intend to reuse it.
10. Climb down the ladder, holding it with both hands to avoid accidentally slipping or falling.
Tags: , both hands, clears framework, corners framework, down ladder, drop ceiling