Cheap Basement Ceilings

Hi, i'm new to this forum, so please excuse me if this question has already been asked, but my family and i are thinking about finishing part of our basement. We have rather low ceilings in the basement, just over 7 feet, with plumbing and vents hanging lower than that. It is too low for a dropped ceiling, and since the new space will function predominantly as a place for my son to be with his friends, our budget it rather small. I was just wondering if any one could help me with ideas on what to do with the ceiling. I was thinking of spray painting the ceiling, beams and all, and just leaving it open, but I am open to suggestions. Our basement is fairly dry, and the ceiling is not neccissarily going to be perminant. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

mustang350,

Welcome to the Forums!

I think you already have it down, low ceilings, low budget - best method - Spray paint everything - protect all electrical and shut off valves - tape off any duct work vents and use flat black - works great for an easy fix.

Good Luck!

 

I used 4x8 pannels of wood latice nailed into the floor joist. Gives the impresion of a ceiling but not the closed in feeling you would get with a low solid ceiling. And they are cheap.

 

If you plan to put up some kind of ceiling, first check to see if any pipes or cables snake under the joists anywhere on the ceiling. If so, then you need to come down with the ceiling a little to give those room.

If there are pipes/cables that drop under the joists, then consider attaching 2x4's perpendicular to the joists every 12-16", on the flat side (so you'll have a 3.5" piece of wood to nail/screw into).

If this is not permanent, you may want to consider checking Home Depot/Lowes'/etc. in the paneling area. Something I use for a movie screen is made for walls, it's a white, non-glossy vinyl type 4x8 sheet made for installation on walls. You could buy sheets of those and screw/nail those to the ceiling. Use white nails/screws and you wouldn't even have to touch up, and white on a ceiling is good for lighting in the room. They cost about $16 per 4x8 sheet around here.

 

You said it do it, about 90% of all Restaurants and large stores are that way now down here.

ED