The importance of a design plan must not be underestimated when constructing a suspended ceiling. Plan the design by choosing the direction and location of your tiles. Simply measure the length of your walls, and then use The Virtual Constructor’s drafting tool to convert your measurements into a blueprint. In addition to listing the materials you’ll need, such as: tiles, main and cross tees and L mouldings, The Virtual Constructor tool offers various options with clear illustrations to guide you. Among other things, it helps inform the orientation of your mouldings and tees to evaluate the cost according to each option.
Choice of tiles and mouldings
Suspended ceiling tiles are available in a variety of materials, finishes and textures, including mineral and wood fibers. Select the tiles according to your budget while taking into consideration the characteristics of its finish, stiffness, durability, fire resistance and soundproofing. The finished side will always be installed facing the floor. Tiles are available in 2’ x 4’ or 2’ x 2’, and your choice will determine the dimensions of the framework and tees to install. The process for installing mouldings can vary by model.
Installation of L mouldings
Start by installing the L-shaped perimeter mouldings attached to the wall. The height at which you install the L mouldings will inform the base your tiles will rest on. To determine the clearance height of the ceiling, measure from below the lowest visible moulding. If a pipe, wood frame or other unit interferes with the passage way, you must make your calculations from below the height of this obstruction. Otherwise, you will either have to work around it or construct a small enclosure box. To install your L mouldings, draw a perfectly straight line using a laser level or a long beam level, making your way around the complete perimeter of the room.
Main tees and cross tees
To start, install the main tees; you’ll know them because they’re the longest. Be sure to keep them straight and level throughout the installation process. You’ll center the layout of your ceiling, in both directions, by clearly marking the starting points of the main tees. Standard tees are usually 12 feet long, but some hardware stores sell them in 8’and 10’. Install the main tees in the opposite direction of your joists; this will make it easier to attach them. Your hardware store can also recommend various fasteners, including newer ones which make the job easier. Pay attention to the spacing of the main tees. The spacing intervals should match the size and direction of where you want the tiles to be installed. Next, attach the cross tees to the main tees in 2’or 4’ intervals. You can take the guesswork out of your calculations by using The Virtual Constructor tool. The Virtual Constructor allows you to visualize, modify and consider different options before you get started.
Calculation of losses from discarded materials
Beyond recalculating various materials in function of the modifications you make, our
suspended ceiling calculator also measures any loss of remaining material incurred during your project. For example, the tool calculates the loss of material of cutting a 2’ x 3’ rectangle from a 2’ x 4’ tile. This ensures that you have the exact number of tiles you need, including losses from discarded scraps. The same goes for re-sizing 12’ main tees to accommodate an 11’ room; any remaining scraps are not taken into account as they won’t be reusable when finishing the last row.
The Virtual Constructor takes care of all of these calculations and helps you make an informed choice based on pricing, layout and the type of tiling you select, including unusable materials and more.
Don’t wait any longer! Give it a test run today!