I am going to be putting in a drop ceiling in the basement. Are there any helpful tips that you could give me? IE. what is the best way to be sure it is level. Also, what is the minimum amount of space that a 2x4drop ceiling panel should be put in at?

 

Boo:

Not exactly what this forum is about, but yeah, been there, done that too!

Minimum space (from current joists to new ceiling) should be about 6 inches. This gives you a little room to play with the grid work and get it lined up properly. It also gives you enough room to actually insert (or replace) the panels without a struggle.

Wall moulding goes up first. Determine the distance you want from the floor above, and work your way around the room with a 4' level, scribing a line as you go. This gives you a starting point that's level around the room - the grid work can be 'tweaked' to line up properly.

When it comes to actually installing the grid work, establish a line down the center of the area (the long way). This is where the first main runner should go. Likewise, the first cross tee should be at right angles to the main runner, exactly in the center of the initial run.

By doing this, the border around the room will be even on all sides, instead of having 'half panels' on two sides of the room and full ones on the other two sides.

This method makes for a little more cutting when you're putting the panels in, but gives a much neater and more professional looking job in the end.