False Ceiling Options

Metal suspended ceiling panels cover up unsightly ceilings and add color to a room.

False ceilings are commonly known as dropped, suspended or secondary ceilings. These ceilings hang below the actual ceiling, which creates a gap for cables, wiring and duct work. False ceilings can also be used for sound absorbency, adding color to a room or adding decorative qualities like metal tiles to the existing ceiling. False ceilings may be used in areas where the ceiling is not level or in other areas where faults need to be covered.

Stretch Ceiling

Stretch ceilings are custom-made suspended ceilings that are composed of two parts: a polyvinyl chloride membrane and a perimeter profile, which covers the expansion gap in the ceiling. The polyvinyl chloride membrane allows the ceiling to be stretched into virtually any shape, which clips into the ceiling track. Use stretch ceilings to add color or texture to a room. Unlike many other false ceilings, stretch ceilings can be painted. Create murals on the ceilings, or add blue with white clouds to create an outdoor effect. Use a textured ceiling to add depth to a room. Stretch ceilings can come in textures like matte, lacquer or translucent. Buy solid color panels that bring out existing room features or add to the room design. Shape stretch ceilings into arches over doorways. Or, create odd ceiling shapes for a contemporary or abstract look. Puff out towards the floor to create 3-D shapes.

Metal Ceiling Panels

Suspended ceilings are hung from the main ceiling via metal grids. Metal, or tin, panels work well with suspended ceilings. These types of tiles were used during the 19th century and have seen a resurgence as of late. Metal panels generally come in chrome, steel, copper, white or brass finishes. Designs range from floral designs to boxes to wreaths to vines, and they can be either small or large designs depending on the look of your room. Copper suspended ceilings work well in kitchen areas, especially those with a country style. Brass will work well in bathroom areas---just be sure to seal the ceiling if it will be in a moist area.

Drop Ceiling Tiles

Drop ceiling tiles are generally used in basements, laundry rooms or even office buildings. These tiles are generally made of translucent or white material but can come in other colors. They normally have sound absorbent and acoustic control features. These panels usually come in 2- to 4-foot long sections. In office buildings, they can be used over light fixtures. Drop ceilings textures vary from matte to translucent. Drop ceilings can also be made from mineral fiber or wood. Wooden drop ceilings work well in heavily traveled rooms, especially living rooms. This type of drop ceiling assists in covering up duct work and cabling in bottom-floor apartments or lofts.

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