Building a Suspended Ceiling Around Ductwork

by DoItYourself Staff

what you'll need

Eye hooks
Main beam pieces
Hanger wire
Cross tees
Wall molding
Panels
Molding nails
Lighting fixtures

A suspended ceiling adds a number of qualities and benefits such as air circulation, aesthetics and sound proofing. As a result, it increases value and workability.

Suspended ceilings can use a number of accompaniments such as light fixtures and fire equipment, depending on planning. They exist in a wide variety of styles and performance levels, ranging from the common chalky office panels to more exquisite and refined designs. The most crucial step in building a suspended ceiling is the planning stage.

Step 1 - Plan, Plan, Plan

This is the most important step of the process. It will make the rest go quickly and smoothly. After you’ve made the decisions on the type of features and benefits that meet your needs, make clear measurements of the space dimensions. Then draw a diagram with special attention to how the main beams, cross beams, hanging wires, light fixtures, smoke detectors, wall angles, and tiles are placed. A suspended ceiling around ductwork should be 5 to 7 inches from the existing ductwork. Measure again to check your accuracy. A good diagram will basically build itself if you put in some time and effort. Aim for detail and explanation.

Step 2 - Install Wall Angles

This is simple and straightforward. Your plan should contain the exact height you intend to place the wall angle. Use your laser level to make it line up. Overlap and cut at a 45-degree angle at corners. The bottom flange should rest on the level wall.

Step 3: Install Suspension Wires

Check your plan to see where the first main tee meets the cross tee and cut to the proper length. Stretch the wires to remove kinks and test strength.

Step 4: Install the Main Tees

Install main tees level to the wall angle. Cut excess material.

Step 5: Install Cross Tees and Panels

There are 2 ways to do this: 2 x 2 and 2 x 4. Aesthetically, 2 x 2 is obviously the best, but in terms of workability, 2 x 4 patterns require a little less effort. Install border cross tees between the wall angle and last main tee. Installing the panels is the easy part of the job. They’re designed to just be dropped in place.