A step ceiling is often built around the perimeter of a room to give an illusion of greater height. A step extends down from the main ceiling to a depth ranging from about 2 inches to a foot or more. Some step ceilings are used to conceal wiring for perimeter lighting. Some are painted or finished in colors or materials to contrast with the , while other steps match the main ceiling. Specific designs and uses vary with the type and style of room and the homeowner's preference. Step ceilings can be framed during initial construction or added later.
Instructions
1. Mark the inner edge of the step ceiling with a tape measure, allowing 1/2 inch for drywall. Measure 15 1/2 inches, for instance, for a 16-inch-wide step. Mark points along all walls where the step will be installed. Snap a chalk line on the ceiling to mark the outline. Locate ceiling joists with a stud finder and mark those spots at every location along the line.
2. Build "ladders" of 2-by-2-inch lumber to form the step ceiling framework. Cut two 2-by-2s to the length of a wall, less the width of a step if steps are being installed on all four walls. Connect those with 2-by-2s cut to make the ladder the depth desired for the step; make ladder strips 8 1/2 inches, for example, to frame a 12-inch-deep step, allowing for drywall. Use a table saw to cut 2-by-2s accurately.
3. Place ladder strips 16 inches apart and nail them with a hammer and two 8d nails through the long frames into each end. Use a speed square to keep them square. Build ladders on a level surface. Make two ladders 2 inches shorter so they will fit inside the other ladders to frame around the room.
4. Lift a ladder in place (with help) and position it in place along the chalk line. Fasten it to ceiling joists with galvanized screws and a screw gun. Drive one screw into each joist. Set one ladder strip at a time. Install blocking or furring strips on the ceiling between joists where ladders will parallel joists and fasten ladders to those supports.
5. Mark the depth of the step ceiling on the walls. Use a tape measure to make sure it is the same as the depth of the inside ladders. Snap a chalk line to mark the bottom. Cut 2-by-2s to the length for each wall and fasten them to wall studs; this will support drywall on the bottom of the step ceiling.
Tags: chalk line, main ceiling, step ceiling, 2-by-2s length, Build ladders, ceiling joists, ceiling joists with