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3 Options to Finish a Basement Ceiling


by DoItYourself Staff

There are several ways you can finish a basement ceiling. You will find that there are several ideas that you can use to provide a better looking ceiling for your basement.

Suspended Basement Ceiling

A suspended basement ceiling is one of the most inexpensive ways to finish your ceiling. Often referred to as drop ceiling, this form of finishing is suitable for basements with high ceilings. A drop ceiling has a drop or space between the finished ceiling and the actual ceiling. With this type of basement ceiling finish, you can easily access plumbing and wiring at the same time hide it. A suspended basement ceiling is done by installing lightweight metal frames where tiles are can be hang.

Although most tiles used for a drop ceiling are plain, there are a few manufacturers that provide a wide variety of panels with different colors, shapes and designs. However, if you can not find one you can always paint the metal tiles according to your preference.

There are several advantages in using a suspended basement ceiling. One of the main advantages, of course, is easy access to wiring, pipes or ventilation that you may need to access in the future. Also, it makes it easier for you to install electrical cables or an entertainment system. It is also one of the easiest ceiling finishes to install. The tiles used for this type of finish also provide good insulation thus lessening noise in the basement.

Dry Wall

Another common option to finish a basement ceiling is to dry wall the ceiling. Drywall is a traditional option used by many in their basement. This type of finish is more permanent than the drop, low down or suspended ceiling. In this regard, this finish is more durable and sturdy. Dry walling the basement ceiling is a lot more hard work and require more preparation than a drop ceiling. However, it is easier to decorate and design a dry walled ceiling. Unlike a suspended basement ceiling, though, you do not have access to the plumbing ad ventilation. In this regard, you may have to design a lay-out that incorporates access to the wires and plumbing if needed.

Aside from it being sturdier and more durable, there are certain advantages in using drywall for your basement ceiling. One other advantage is that a dry walled ceiling looks more professional and more streamlined. It can also compliment the style and look of the rest of your rooms. This type of finish is also more suitable for basements with less head room or vertical space. Another advantage of using this option is that the materials you will need is much cheaper.

Acoustic Tiles

Using acoustic tiles is another great way to finish the ceiling in your basement. Although not as common as the other 2 options, this type of finishing adds a charming look to your ceiling. This option, however, is great if your ceiling does not have anything hanging from it. A flat ceiling is more suitable for this type of basement ceiling finish. Installing acoustic tile is easy and quite inexpensive so this is a great DIY project that you can do.

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