Integrated suspended ceilings are common in commercial and institutional buildings.
"Integrated suspended ceiling" refers to a second ceiling installed underneath a traditional ceiling. Suspended ceilings conceal damaged ceilings, pipes, heating/air-conditioning ductwork and other objects. Generally, suspended ceilings consist of a combination of main tees and cross tees that form a metal grid system, and drop-in modules or panels. Integrated suspended ceiling systems incorporate various utilities, such as light fixtures, air diffusers or fire sprinklers, into special channels according to the product manufacturer.
Instructions
1. Review the integrated ceiling systems available on the market and make a choice. Sketch the layout of the suspended ceiling project on graph paper. The design depends on the dimensions of the modules or panels. Space the main tees for the grid according to the module dimensions. Determine the location of the main tees and cross tees. In addition, include the position in the grid for integration of the utilities. Use the sketch to calculate the amount of materials required to complete the project.
2. Measure down from the ceiling joist, the height of the suspended ceiling, at several spots around the room. Determine the lowest mark on each wall when working with an uneven ceiling. Draw a continuous line around the walls using the carpenter's level. Use the lowest mark made on the walls to establish the location of the perimeter line for the ceiling system.
3. Run a stud finder across the walls to locate the studs and mark the locations. Cut the tee with aviation snips and install the component around the perimeter. Align the top edge of the molding with the perimeter mark. Secure the molding with 6d nails or other fastener as recommended by the manufacturer.
4. Butt lengths of perimeter main tees together to line long walls. Fit the first length of main tee tightly in corners, butt the second piece against the first piece, and secure to of tee. Cut outside corner main tee 45-degree angles to create a miter joint. Periodically place the carpenter's level against the tees to ensure a level installation.
5. Install the main cross tees according to the plan. Secure the components to the ceiling joists with 12-gauge hanger wire spaced at 48-inch intervals. Attach the cross tees; connect stabilizer bars in large openings of 60 inches or more. Form 6-inch-wide channels with main tees placed 6 inches apart and supported with yokes.
6. Insert yokes, which function as hangers for tees on both sides of the channel, into tabs on the both tees. Secure the yokes to joists with hanger wires. Integrate light fixtures, air diffusers or other utilities in the channel opening according to the manufacturer's instructions, fire sprinkler. Install the modules in the grid to complete the installation.
Tags: main tees, cross tees, suspended ceiling, carpenter level, ceiling systems