Types of False Ceiling

A false ceiling can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the interiors. Some people prefer to fix concealed LED strips between the false ceiling and actual ceiling which would transform the room into a new level. This is also called drop ceiling or suspended ceiling because it is hanged under the roof slab supported by rods suspending down from the roof.

Benefits of False Ceiling

The primary function of a false ceiling is the decoration of the room. A beautifully designed false ceiling can enhance the overall appearance of the room. Lighting frames, LEDs, and other small materials can be fixed under them to make it more beautiful.

It conceals any ugly electric wires or other material beneath the roof slab.

A false ceiling can be designed in any texture you want which is helpful to add a personality or style to the room.

Moreover, a false ceiling can reduce the height of the room if you think the height is too much. That is why the false ceiling is not recommended for small houses because it can make the room smaller.

Additionally, a false ceiling helps to reduce the capacity size of the AC because it reduces the size of the room.

False Ceiling Materials

Types of the false ceiling would vary based on the weather of the area and style of the architecture. The common types of false ceiling include gypsum ceiling, synthetic leather ceiling, glass false ceiling, Thermocol ceiling, wooden ceiling, metal ceiling and PVC ceiling. Each of these ceilings has its own pros and cons. You would have to use particular material if you want particular style.

Therefore, it is important to have an idea of what do you want before you choose the type of false ceiling. You can browse through Pinterest or Instagram for to get inspirations and ideas.

What Type is good for you?

Probably you already know different types of the false ceiling but don’t know why you should prefer one over another. You need to be aware of the pros and cons of each of these false ceiling, in order to make an informed decision; so here is a detailed description of different kinds of false ceiling.

Gypsum Ceiling

Gypsum comes as boards or tiles and it can be cut and shaped based on our design. This material is light-weight and it made the job installing a false ceiling easier. The gypsum tiles or boards are supported by iron framework hanged down from the actual ceiling. It has become increasingly popular because it is relatively cheaper and we can make any design we want using this.

This material is fire resistant which makes this one of the safest materials for ceiling and it is used for interior finishing in regions like North America where fire resistant safety measures are strict. Additionally, this material is soundproof which helps you to get more privacy and freedom from outdoor disturbances.

Since gypsum can be decorated and refinished easily, this is also used to construct walls and partitions. Gypsum is strong, durable and economic which make it the best option for false ceiling.

However, gypsum ceiling is not free of demerits. This material might be damaged when exposed to extreme heat. Therefore, it is not recommended to keep things like heating appliances, electric lights producing a huge amount of heat adjacent to the gypsum.

Additionally, water or continuous presence of small moisture can also damage the gypsum ceiling.

These are not highly problematic because both of these adverse situations can be easily avoided.

Plaster of Paris

This material made by heating gypsum at 150-degree Celsius and then mixing a plastic powder with water. Plaster of Paris (POP) is very popular in construction as well as sculpting art because it can be molded and carved easily. The durability of the POP is almost same as gypsum.

While gypsum board available as sheets, POP boards are made at the construction site. Since this made locally, there will not visible joints in the POP finishing. We can achieve even complex designs and textures using this material because it is easy to sculpt. The finishing of the POP boards can be made smoother than gypsum boards.

Laborers make the POP boards at your home using the raw materials which may make your room messy for a while. Moreover, this process takes time and you will need more days to complete the construction.

Metal Ceiling

Aluminum and galvanized iron are the most commonly used metals for the false ceiling in residential properties. This material is cheaper and light-weight. The metal sheets are attached to the panel hanging down from the roof. The surface of the metal false ceiling would be shiny and reflective.

Fiber

This is extremely light-weight and one of the cheapest materials for false ceiling. Fiber is a sound-proof material which makes it useful to reduce the noise in the room. This kind of ceiling is used in large halls of the companies and offices where noise can be a big problem.

Fiber false ceilings come in a variety of designs and textures and they are easy to install. However, this can’t be molded or shaped like we could do with POP or gypsum.

PVC

Although it is not attractive as POP or gypsum, it is highly popular because it is cheaper, water-proof and durable. This material is suitable for any kind of weather and doesn’t require much maintenance. Some low-quality PVC sheets may produce toxic gases in small amounts.

Wooden

A wooden false ceiling would be a great option for houses with traditional style. The pattern and texture of the wood gives an elegant appearance to the room and add the style to the room. Plywood is also used instead of solid wood for false ceiling.

Wood is a natural and material and so it may warp based on the difference in temperature in different seasons. This may create unpleasant finishes after some time. However, there are people preferring wooden ceiling even they know it may warp over time.

A false ceiling has both functional aesthetic benefits which made it a popular trend. The material you would choose for false ceiling should be based on the style of architecture and other requirements.

For example, if your house has a traditional style, a metal or fiber false ceiling would be weird. POP or gypsum painted with matching colors would be a great way to add personality to a traditional house. Houses in contemporary style can choose any of these materials; however, gypsum and POP is the best if you would have the budget.