STEP 1

Draw a Room Scale

Draw the exact dimensions of the room to scale on graph paper. Choose from
either a 2′ x 2′ or a 2′ x 4′ pattern. The pattern size will determine the material
requirements for the ceiling. For the 2′ x 4′ pattern, install the patterns in a
standard or reverse pattern. Each pattern offers a different appearance.

Sketch various layout possibilities for the planned ceiling. It is important to

space the cross tees so the border panels at the ends of the room are equal
and as large as possible. With a 2′ x 4′ pattern, space the 4-foot cross tees 2
feet apart. For a 2′ x 2′ pattern, add 2-foot cross tees between the midpoints
of the 4-foot cross tees.
STEP 2

Choose the Lighting Location

If the ceiling will be recessed and built-in lighting will be installed, decide
where to locate the panels of light and clearly identify them on the drawing.
Determine the exact height at which the suspended ceiling will be installed.
Allow a minimum of 3 to 4 inches for clearance between the old ceiling and
the new ceiling. Keep in mind that additional clearance will be required if
recessed lighting is being used.
STEP 3

Attach Wall Angles

After locating the exact position for the suspended ceiling, use a level to draw
a line completely around the room indicating where the wall angle will be
applied. Don’t assume the original ceiling is level. Fasten the wall angles
securely at all points. Nail them to studs, or use screw anchors or other
fasteners on brick or masonry walls. Position the wall angle so that the bottom
flange rests on the level line you have drawn on the wall. Overlap the wall
angle on inside corners and mitre the wall angle on outside corners. Make a
temporary wooden mitre box if you don’t have one. Cut any needed angles
with metal cutting snips or a hacksaw.
STEP 4

Install Wiring

If recessed lights are being installed, place the wiring before putting the
suspension wires in place. For recessed lighting, use either 2″ x 2″ or 2″ x 4″
drop-in lighting fixtures, which are specially designed for this purpose.
Fluorescent light fixtures can also be centred over the panels and a luminous
lay-in panel can be used instead of a regular ceiling panel.
STEP 5

Attach Suspension Wires

Main tees should always run at right angles to the joists in the room. Locate
the position of each main tee by stretching a tight line from the top edge of
the wall angle on all sides of the room at each position where the main tees
are to be placed.

Now, cut the suspension wires to the proper length. The wires should be 12
inches longer than the distance between the old ceiling and the new guideline
string. Locate the first suspension wire for each main tee directly above the
point where the first cross tee meets the main tee. Check the original sketch of
the room to determine this location. Be sure the suspension wires are securely
fastened. Apply them to the ceiling with screw eyes, screw hooks, nails, or by
drilling. Attach a suspension wire every 4 feet along with the level guideline.
Stretch each wire to remove any kinks and make a 90-degree bend where the
suspension wire crosses the level line.

STEP 6

Splice the Main Tees

 Refer to the layout sheet to determine the distance from the wall to the first
cross tee. Measure this distance along the top flange of the main tee and
locate the slot just beyond this point. From this slot, measure back the same
distance, subtract 1/8″ and saw the main tee at that point. The 1/8″
subtraction is for the thickness of the wall angle. If the wall angles are not
square, position the cross tee slots accordingly. When main tees are installed
in rooms less than 12 feet across, cut the main tee to the exact measurement
of the room, allowing 1/8″ for the thickness of the wall angle. For rooms wider
than 12 feet, the main tee can be spliced. Be sure to align the splice so that
the suspension wires are correctly positioned. Splice carefully, or all the main
tees will be thrown off.

STEP 7

Install the Main and Cross Tees

Install the main tees so that they are all level with the wall angle already
mounted. Use a long level for this. Install the cross tees by inserting the ends
of the cross tees into the slots in the main tees. Use the manufacturer’s
instructions for fitting the cross tees into position. Determine the location of
the cross tees by the pattern selected.

STEP 8

Place the Ceiling Panels

Drop the ceiling panels into position by tilting them slightly, lifting them
above the framework and letting them fall into place.

Share this
LEAVE A REPLY

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comment