How do you do a drop ceiling around ductwork?
Pull the main over to the edge of the vertical drop punch and rivet install the additional mains until you with the t hanging from the main. And using a pencil mark the height of the drop.
How much does it cost to put a drop ceiling in a basement?
Average Cost to Put a Drop Ceiling in a Basement
Average costs to finish a basement could run between $2,000 to $11,200 if you install a 400-square-foot drop ceiling. This includes $1,200 to $9,200 in materials for a large area. Labor also increases with the square footage and lands in the $800 to $2,000 range.
How do you install a suspended basement ceiling?
Along the line insert eye bolts in every third ceiling joist attach 16 gauge wires to the eye bolts twist the wire at the top around itself at least. Three.
Can an area above a drop Sheetrock ceiling be a plenum space?
Space between the structural ceiling and the dropped ceiling or under a raised floor is typically considered plenum; however, some drop-ceiling designs create a tight seal that does not allow for airflow and therefore may not be considered a plenum air-handling space.
What is the difference between a drop ceiling and a suspended ceiling?
Though the terminology may seem confusing, a suspended ceiling is the exact same thing as a drop ceiling, also called a dropped ceiling. These terms refer to a type of ceiling paneling separate from the higher structural ceiling, and it serves a specific and important purpose in home construction.
What is the minimum clearance for a drop ceiling?
3 to 8 inches
This type of ceiling literally “drops” the ceiling. So that panels can be pushed up through the grid and then set into place, a minimum clearance beneath the lowest objects (such as floor joists) is required-typically from 3 to 8 inches.
Is it cheaper to drywall or drop ceiling?
Drop ceilings are more expensive to install than drywall making drywall the cheaper option. However, if you can install a drop ceiling by yourself, you can save on labor costs. You should also factor in paint costs for a drywall ceiling and whether you are hiring a professional to install and paint for you.
How much space do you lose with a drop ceiling?
Most manufacturers recommend around three-inches of space above their drop ceilings, with some recommending as much as eight-inches.
How much weight can a drop ceiling hold?
We do not recommend hanging items heavier than 15 lbs because it may damage or warp your drop ceiling grid due to excess & uneven weight being placed on on the ceiling grid bars.
What is a plenum airspace?
A plenum ceiling is one that uses the space between the top of the suspended ceiling and the bottom of the floor above to handle air for ventilation. All suspended ceilings are not plenums; some may use HVAC ductwork to move air to returns and diffusers located in the ceiling tiles (a ‘dead’ ceiling).
What is the space above a drop ceiling called?
plenum space
It may also be referred to as a false or suspended ceiling, and is a staple of modern construction and architecture. The area above the dropped ceiling is called the plenum space, as it is usually used for the HVAC air return. The plenum space is also very commonly used to conceal piping, wiring, and ductwork.
What is the best ceiling for a basement?
Suspended ceilings are one of the most popular basement ceilings. Consisting of a simple grid and lightweight tiles or panels, a suspended ceiling covers exposed beams, ductwork, and electrical wiring, while allowing easy access for repairs or leaks.
Should you put a drop ceiling in basement?
Final Thoughts. Dropped ceilings are usually chosen for basements and garages because they allow easy access to important wiring and plumbing. Aside from this, how they look is often the deciding factor. Both ceilings can provide a good look, so it is primarily personal preference!
Should a basement have a drop ceiling?
Many homeowners prefer to have a drop ceiling in their basement because plumping and wiring is typically installed in the space above and getting to it is easy. In the event of a plumbing leak, the damage to the basement ceiling may be limited to only a few basement ceiling tiles.
Can a drop ceiling support a person?
One thing to be aware of is that dropped ceilings tend to be very flimsy and there’s not much holding them up besides a thin aluminum grid. This might not support the weight of an adult, and it would be harder to crawl/climb on than the wooden beams that support the ceilings of older buildings and many residences.
Can you hang speakers from drop ceiling?
Hanging speakers on a drop ceiling
The unique problem when mounting speakers from a drop ceiling is that the ceiling itself cannot support the weight of most speakers. You need to go above the ceiling and attach your cables to a support beam.
What is the difference between a plenum and a duct?
airflow. A plenum is an air distribution box designed for forced-air systems on residential homes and commercial businesses. It is part of the ductwork, but far different than an air duct as these important boxes handle air as it enters the ducts and helps to recirculate it within a system.
How much clearance do you need for a drop ceiling?
What can I use instead of a drop ceiling?
9 Drop Ceiling Alternatives
- Drywall. Drywall is an excellent option that almost always improves the appearance of any room thanks to it’s simplicity and ease of decorating.
- Wooden Planks.
- Beadboard.
- Ceiling Tiles.
- Plywood.
- Corrugated Metal.
- Stained Glass Ceilings.
- Faux Wooden Beams.
How many inches do you lose with a drop ceiling?
eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. A dropped ceiling grid usually requires a 4-inch clearance. Dropped ceilings, which feature a horizontal grid usually made from lightweight metal and individual acoustical panels that fit in the grid, are standard in basements.
What is the alternative to a drop ceiling?
Drywall. This is one of the most widespread and cheap options for replacing your drop ceiling. Drywall, also known as gypsum, gives you a smooth and uninterrupted look for your ceiling. It is also one of the cheapest options available.
How much weight will a drop ceiling hold?
How do you hang a heavy speaker from the ceiling?
I built brackets to hang floor speakers from the ceiling in my garage
What qualifies as a plenum space?
Simply stated, the NEC defines a plenum area as, “a compartment or chamber to which one or more air ducts are connected and that forms part of the air distribution system.” It also references, “the space over a hung ceiling used for environmental air-handling purposes,” and, “areas beneath raised floors for information …
Why do I need a plenum?
Article 800 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) states that plenum cable should ALWAYS be used in plenum airspaces and air ducts to slow down the spread of flames and reduce smoke and toxic fumes from circulating throughout the building.