Install A Drop Ceiling For Better Acoustics
Installing a secondary ceiling beneath the original one has become quite popular in modern architecture and is commonly known as a drop ceiling. They are sometimes also referred to as false ceilings or suspended ceilings.
What is a drop ceiling?
It’s a secondary ceiling composed of ceiling panels or drop ceiling panels that are placed inside a metal grid. Often they are made of translucent materials to give a soft glow from the original ceiling. Although some people prefer other ceiling options due to the industrial look that a dropped ceiling can have; it’s a lot more cost effective (and easier) to install a dropped ceiling compared to drywall. The Plenum Space refers to the area between the original ceiling and the drop ceiling as it’s often used for HVAC air return. The plenum space is also the perfect place to hide ductwork, pipe work and wiring, which is also the most beneficial reason for having drop ceiling panels installed; the ease of access for repairs to be done to duct work/plumbing. This can be done simply by removing one or two of the ceiling panels.
A dropped ceiling usually has metal grids the shape of an upside-down "T" , suspended by wires and filled with “tiles/panels”. Various materials can be used for this including metal, wood, mineral fibres or plastic, and they come in virtually every colour. Most drop ceiling materials can easily be cut to allow incandescent lights, fire sprinkler heads and speakers to fit, however, HVAC air grilles and some light fixtures are available to fit into the same space as a panel, for easy installation.
Originally developed for concealing the underside of an overhead floor, a suspended ceiling installation (drop ceiling) was also designed for improved acoustic control and balance. With dramatically improved acoustics, drop ceilings now have enhanced attenuation and the ability to absorb sound. This can be achieved by insulating the ceiling with Sound Attenuation Batts (SABs), or "sound batts" placed above the panels to keep adjacent rooms quieter by helping to deaden sounds.
Benefits of installing a Drop Ceiling
For many reasons Drop ceilings are a good choice of treatment for a basement ceiling. They are:
Before you get started on installing your new ceiling, you must decide what type of material o use. Once you’ve settled on this, you’ll have to decide whether you want light panels, tin panels or translucent panels. If you’ve decided to install a drop ceiling by yourself, you should know that this can become challenging at times due to awkward angles and working on ladders. If you’re not up to doing it on your own, it‘s advisable to seek a professional‘s help. Good luck!
