All About False Ceilings
As buildings are incomplete without the roof, similarly ceilings are also an essential part of the building interiors. A false ceiling provides us with numerous options to play with the aesthetics of the ceiling. The use of false ceiling is not just limited to the aesthetic aspect but also helps control the acoustics, can reflect and diffuse light minimizing the need for unnecessary artificial lighting. It also provides space for electric wires, pipes, air conditioning ducts, etc. Some ceiling panels also offer fire safety and moisture resistance.
False Ceilings are basically suspended, or secondary ceilings hung below the main structural ceiling with the help of metal or wooden frames with a minimum distance of 8 inches. There are different types of false ceilings based on their materials and applications.
Different Types of False Ceiling Panel
- Plaster of Paris false ceilings
POP is the most commonly used material as it is
- Maintenance-free
- Highly Durable
- Good insulator for any temperature
- Easy to shape and give different finishes, including uniform and smooth finish.
- Enhances interior light condition.
However, POP does tend to crack over time. It is available in powder form and needs to be hardened by adding water to bring it in shape.
Price — ₹ 50 — ₹ 150/sq. ft.
2. Gypsum False ceiling
Gypsum is another popular material for false ceiling because of its
- Great thermal insulation
- Efficient sound insulation
- Lightweight and soft material
- Fire-Resistant
- Easy to provide different shapes and texture options like plain, curved, stepped, and coffered. Available naturally in shades of brown, white, red, yellow, grey
The aesthetics of the gypsum board can be enhanced by coating it with paint or laminates. However, it needs to be broken down in case of any repair.
Price — ₹ 50 — ₹ 150/sq. ft.
3. Wood False ceiling
Wood ceiling panels give one of the most sophisticated looks. Wood panels are
- Very much aesthetic due to its natural pattern and textures.
- Easy to install by just using screws and nails.
- Most suitable for cold climates.
- Different textured finishes can be provided, including paints with any appropriate color.
However, it is costly due to the high cost of materials and maintenance. And although wood panels are durable, they are susceptible to termite attacks and warping.
Price — ₹ 80 — ₹ 650/sq. ft.
4. Fiber False Ceilings
Fiber false ceilings are gaining popularity in commercial buildings such as shopping malls, retail showrooms, and offices, where much acoustic control is needed. It is because fiber tiles
- Provide sound and heat insulation
- Available at low cost
- Fire resistant
- Easy to install
However, due to their comparatively less aesthetic appeal, they are not generally used for residential purposes.
Price — ₹ 75 — ₹ 600/sq. ft.
5. Glass False Ceilings
Glass ceiling panels are generally used in Jewelry shops, Restaurants, Library, Bookstore, etc. Glass panels :
- Improve the aesthetics of the ceiling.
- Makes small spaces look bigger.
- Is a good heat insulator
Glass has limited use because of its brittle nature, although it can be reduced by adding suitable additives.
Price — Up to ₹ 400/sq. ft.
6. PVC False Ceilings
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is an ideal plastic material for false ceilings in garages, basements, kitchens, toilets, and bathrooms, as it’s
- Highly cost-effective
- Easy to install and maintain
- Lightweight
- Resistant to moisture and termites
- Unaffected by UV light and thus is colorfast
- Different finishes can be provided, allowing flexibility in design
Price — ₹ 30 — ₹ 140/sq. ft.
7. Metal False Ceilings
Metals such as aluminum and galvanized iron are widely used in false ceilings as they are
- Hard and durable
- Easy to install, remove and reinstall, making it ideal for hiding away water pipes, AC ducts, and electric wires.
- Little maintenance.
- Various kinds of finishes can be provided to increase the aesthetics of the ceiling.
Price — ₹ 40 — ₹ 150/sq. ft.
8. Fabric and Synthetic Leather False Ceilings
Fabric and Synthetic Leather Ceilings are more ornamental than functional and hence are mostly used for temporary purposes such as Exhibitions or events.
Factors affecting the cost of false ceiling
- Design — As the design complexity increases, price increases.
- Size — For larger ceiling areas, prices decrease due to wholesale purchase.
- Quality — Price gets costlier with better quality, but there will be a higher return on investment as the product will be more durable.
- Availability — Availability of the material at your locality and the transportation cost affect the prices.
- Additional Cost — There are costs of labor, finishes, fittings, cutting, lighting, accents, etc., which add up.
So now you know about the different materials of false ceilings, their functions, advantages, and drawbacks, make an informed decision while selecting your false ceiling material. Also don’t forget to check Wishkarma.com to browse different building and construction material.
