Introduction - Different Types of False Ceiling Materials
False ceilings prove to be an excellent addition to your house or office, as it provides a plethora of benefits that cannot be ignored. These ceilings are the perfect solution to a wide range of issues, such as unwanted noises and sounds, heat insulation, design elements, and utility concealment.
False ceilings function as secondary ceilings that are suspended from the primary ceiling, and they come in a broad range of styles to cater to your unique requirements. For instance, if you want to create a home theater, you can opt for soundproof ceilings that absorb sounds and provide you with an immersive cinematic experience.
Similarly, false ceilings can also help maintain optimal temperatures by absorbing heat and trapping air, which is an excellent solution for homes or offices located in top floors that tend to become too hot during summers. In addition to the functional benefits, false ceilings also add an aesthetic touch to your living or office spaces.
By using design elements, you can create a versatile and attractive look that enhances the overall ambiance of the room. Besides, they can also help hide unsightly pipes, wires, or other utilities, giving your room a cleaner, more sophisticated look.
Different Types of False Ceiling Materials:
1. Plaster of Paris
“Different Types of False Ceiling Materials”
One of the most popular choices for false ceilings, specially for homes, is Plaster of Paris. However, it is just one of the different types of false ceiling materials available in the market. It is made with a mixture of gypsum and water, which when heated hardens to form a plaster. It is a relatively cheaper option and is extremely easy to work with; hence making it so popular.
Moreover, it is not very durable and can easily form cracks and chip with even a little scrape. This plaster is mostly used for making casts, molds, and other sculpting designs as it is easy to ply and molds. The most common use of Plaster of Paris is to make cornices for false ceilings. Its texture and pliability make it the best product for creating design elements with intricate crafting’s.
Depending on the thickness of the plaster, it can take a few minutes to a few hours to harden and take shape. Another drawback to this material apart from easy chipping and cracking is that is is moisture sensitive and can easily be damaged in damp or humid conditions making it not suitable for use in open areas or areas such as bathrooms, basements, etc.
2. Gypsum board
“Different Types of False Ceiling Materials”
Gypsum board, also known as drywall or plasterboard, is a lightweight material made from a mixture of gypsum and paper. It is made by sandwiching layers of gypsum and paper. It is sold in the form of sheets that can be cut to your desired size and shape and is installed ideally on channels with the help of screws or nails.
Once installed, the joints and screws are covered up with tape and jointing compound to give it a more seamless and smooth finish. It is one of the most commonly used false ceiling materials as it is cheap and can be used in varied ways and also is versatile enough to cover up pipes, wires, etc. that are left open on the ceiling.
It is one of the most commonly used materials among the “Different Types of False Ceiling Materials” in residential and commercial false ceilings. It can also be painted upon or covered with wall paper to match the design and aesthetics of your room. However, as it is made of gypsum, it can easily be damaged by water and moisture and is not suitable for outdoors or spaces like basements and bathrooms or any other place with excess moisture or water.
It is quick to install and can also be installed as interior wall partitions. One thing to keep in mind while installing is to give it a proper support system using channels or frames. If the support is not adequate, the board might sag and even break over time.
Pros of using Gypsum Board in false ceiling:
1. This inexpensive, lightweight material is extremely easy to install and one of the most fast moving false ceiling materials.
2. Moisture resistant and Fire Resistant Gypsum Boards are also available. in case of fire resistant.
3. Gypsum Boards can be easily painted to any colour and finish required.
Cons of using Gypsum Board in false ceiling:
1. Can be easily damaged by force, water or humidity.
2. It easily cracks and bends in certain conditions, making it less durable when compared to other false ceiling materials.
3. Wood
“Different Types of False Ceiling Materials”
Wood false ceilings are made of wooden panels that are suspended from the main ceiling, hence also making them knows as wood suspended ceilings or wood drop ceilings. These are one of the oldest used forms of natural ceilings as well as false ceilings.
They give a rustic yet modern look and give the place a natural warm look. These can also be painted or stained to match the interior of your room, but the natural look is the most pleasing. These panels can be made with plywood or MDF (medium-density fiberboard) and are fixed onto channels or frames that are hung onto the main ceiling using wires or cables.
It is easy to install and can be cut to any shape or size of preference but using wood can be expensive and needs proper care and maintenance when compared to the other listed “Different Types of False Ceiling Materials”. In addition, Wood is prone to rotting and warping in the long run, hence reducing its durability.
Pros of using wood in false ceiling:
1. Wood gives a warm and Natural look to the interior space.
2. Wood is highly Versatile in nature as it can be molded and installed into any shape and design.
3. A premium quality wood is highly Durable in nature as it will last for a very long period of time.
Cons of using wood in false ceiling:
1. Highly Expensive when compared to other false ceiling material. Also, labour costs is very high.
2. High Maintenance costs as Wood requires regular maintenance and upkeep. Also wood is highly prone to termites, moisture and humidity.
3. Cannot be used in Non-load bearing structures as wood is very heavy in nature.
4. PVC
“Different Types of False Ceiling Materials”
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a material that is made of plastic. It is lightweight and extremely easy to work with. It is popular to use as it is waterproof and is also resistant to mold and mildew. These are also suspended ceilings that are made from PVC panels. They are reasonable and extremely practical; they can also be used outdoors.
They do not take much effort to maintain, just wipe away with a damp cloth or dust with a broom, and they are all clean. Moreover, these panels are extremely durable as they can be cut into various shapes and sizes as per your preferences. Apart from this, they are also available in a wide range of colours and styles.
Due to their versatility, they are useful in creating different looks such as modern, traditional, or even contemporary designs. As other suspended ceilings, they are hung from the main ceiling using wires or cables that are attached to a metal framework and the panels screwed onto them.
The gaps in the boards can be filled with sealant or adhesive or you also get beadings to cover up the edges. It is extremely easy and quick to install when compared to the other “Different Types of False Ceiling Materials” listed earlier. You can have your new or renewed ceiling in as less than a day (depending on the size of the room).
Pros of using PVC in False ceiling:
1. They are water and moisture resistant and are lightweight and easy to install.
2. They come in a lot of finishes, colours and styles.
Cons of using PVC in False ceiling:
1. They are not extremely strong or durable and cannot withstand heavy weights.
2. They are made of plastic, hence not environmentally friendly.
5. Metal
“Different Types of False Ceiling Materials”
As the name suggests, metal false ceiling is made with the use of metal panels or metal tiles. They are typically made using aluminum or steel, but can also be made using other metals such as brass, copper, etc. These types of ceilings are extremely durable, long lasting and also extremely easy to maintain.
It is a good option to use in damp areas or places where they can come in contact with water as metal is water resistant. They are extremely easy to install and are prefinished, as in they do not require to be painted or finished after installing. They are also installed on suspended framework, as other false ceilings.
These are the most commonly used kind of false ceiling in commercial spaces when compared to the other “Different Types of False Ceiling Materials” listed earlier. However, it can also be used in residential spaces.
Pros of using metal in false ceiling:
1. These are long lasting, durable, water and moisture resistant and are a good choice option for damp humid spaces.
2. Easy maintenance and pre finished products.
Cons of using metal in false ceiling:
1. They are not suitable for places with strong magnetic fields.
2. They are expensive and difficult to install, require skilled professional tools and labor to install.
6. Fiber Cement Board
“Different Types of False Ceiling Materials”
Fiber Cement Boards are a composite material that are made from a mixture of products such as sand, cement and cellulose fiber. They are extremely strong as they are made of cement and are long lasting and durable as they are resistant to moisture, fire and pests. These properties make this suspended ceiling a good choice for different applications.
These are relatively new in the false ceiling category but are considered to have several advantages over the traditional options such as gypsum board, etc., as they are environment friendly – being made from natural products.
They can also withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy loads of weight. These are the new age materials among the “Different Types of False Ceiling Materials” listed earlier. They are quickly capturing the False ceiling market.
Pros of using Fiber cement board in false ceiling:
1. These boards are resistant to moisture, fire and pests and are extremely durable and strong.
2. They are free from harmful chemicals and are made from natural, environment friendly materials.
Cons of using Fiber cement board in false ceiling:
1. These are expensive to install and require specialized tools and labor for installation.
2. They are heavy and ridged, making them difficult to work with in complex designs.
Choosing the right false ceiling material:
“Different Types of False Ceiling Materials”
Few of the most important thing to consider while choosing the material for a false ceiling are the purpose of installation, location and design aspects of the room. Here are a few tips that will help you choose the best materials for your requirements:
Purpose: Purpose for false ceiling installation is another important aspect to consider. If the space is used for a home theater, you will require materials with good acoustic treatment and sound proofing properties such as wooden or fiber cement board.
Design: This is one of the most important factors. Depending on the style, aesthetics and design of the room, materials need to be chosen. For example – if you are looking for a rugged, wooden feel then PVC or wooden false ceiling would be most suitable.
Cost: Materials such as fiber cement board are expensive while PVC and gypsum board are cheaper options. Depending on your requirement and budget, choose the material that suits you best.
Installation: The ease of installation and time required are other important points. Materials such as PVC and gypsum board are relatively easy to install while materials like fiber cement board that are heavy, are more difficult to install and require specialized tools and skillset.
Location: Location of the room is a key factor in choosing the material for false ceiling. For example – if the room you need a false ceiling in is humid and damp, materials such as gypsum board will not be suitable.
These factors can help you in choosing the best products available in the market for your false ceiling needs.
Conclusion
“Different Types of False Ceiling Materials”
In conclusion, false ceilings have become an essential element in modern interior design. Installing a false ceiling can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home while also providing various practical benefits. False ceiling materials come in different shapes, sizes, and patterns, with each type offering unique features and benefits.
The type of false ceiling material you choose will depend on your budget, preference, and requirements. It is crucial to consult with an expert who can help you make an informed decision about the different types of false ceiling materials. False ceilings are an excellent investment that can significantly improve the value of your property.
Whether you go for gypsum, metal, or PVC, you can be sure that a false ceiling will add elegance, improve acoustics, and hide unsightly pipes and wires.
FAQ's - Different Types of False Ceiling Materials
1. What are the different types of false ceiling materials currently available in the Indian Market?
There are several materials available for false ceilings like gypsum, PVC, wooden, metal, plaster of paris, and glass.
2. Which material is the best for false ceilings?
Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. It depends on the customer’s preference and the location where it is to be installed.
3. Is the maintenance of false ceiling materials tough?
No, false ceilings are easy to maintain. You only need to clean them regularly to keep them in good condition.
4. Can false ceiling materials resist moisture?
Moisture resistant Gypsum board, PVC, Fiber cement board, Calcium silicate board and metal false ceilings have good moisture-resistant properties.
5. Can false ceilings help to reduce noise pollution?
Yes, soundproof false ceilings made of gypsum and acoustic tiles can help to reduce noise pollution.
6. What are the advantages of using a glass false ceiling?
Glass false ceilings will reflect light and make the room look brighter and more spacious.
7. Can false ceilings support the weight of ceiling fans and lights?
Yes, false ceilings are designed to support the weight of ceiling fans and lights.
8. Is it easy to install false ceilings?
Yes, false ceilings are easy to install. You can get them installed by professionals or as DIY.
9. What is the cost of false ceiling materials?
The cost varies depending on the material type, design, and size of the area where it is to be installed. For a living room of size 15ft x 25ft, the costs for false ceiling can vary any where between 60 Rs Per Sft to 800 Rs per Sft depending on the type of material you choose.
10. How long does a false ceiling last?
Although there are so many different types of false ceiling materials in India, with proper maintenance, these materials can last for many years. The durability depends on the material used and the area where it is installed. In general, Gypsum false ceilings have a life of 10+ Years.