Is installing a suspended ceiling difficult?
Question:
Answers:
That depends..
In a rectangular room it is not hard. In a room with a lot of angles or changes in roof elevation it can get a bit tricky. (such as in a basement with low hanging heating ducts)
It usually has to go at least 3-4 inches under the lowest hanging pipe. Although there are systems out there that allow you closer clearance.
It mostly takes PLANNING to look good. Do not start by putting up a grid and tile in a corner because you will not know what you need on the opposite walls. Plan on starting in the middle of the room and working to the walls. Plan it out completely. You may want to start just off center slightly if the strips at the walls are too thin.
It is very important for looks that you keep it level..as you hang the grid. Start by affixing angle supporting grid to the wall level.
Then the long main support stringers 4 feet apart from end to end. Assuming the angle support grid along the wall is level, it is actually easier to use a high weight monofiliment (such as fishing) line from wall to wall at each stringer and taking elevation measurements from that.
To affix the wires to a ceiling you can buy lag screws that will screw in with an electric drill and a special bit that have holes.
Then Install 4 ft grid peices between the main support stringers across every 4 ft and 4 ft grid pieces to bisect the 4x4 into 4x2. If you are using 2x2 tiles bisect them again with 2 ft peices.
You will need wire supports to the grid at least every 4 feet... more if you have lights and things supported by the grid.
Changes in elevation are difficult.. and it basically takes a lot of cutting, a hole stamp (or a drill) and pop rivets
Electrical needs to be planned out also.. are you installing lights? You need to have it pre-wired correctly before you install the grid. You can use large 4x2 florescent lights that are recessed into the ceiling or if you have room a great alternative is the drum recessed lights
If you have ductwork for heating you also need to plan that on where it be coming down through the ceiling.
Do not forget smoke detectors which should go in the living area.. you do not want to trap them into the space above the ceiling because they will then be useless.
no
Well, that depends. Is the power already there and good to go?
If you want to install a ceiling fan where a light is currently hanging, there could be problems also.
However, assembling and hanging a ceiling fan is easy.
E-mail me w/ more details and I can help you. I have installed 100's of fans, literally!!
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