Ceiling For Fishing Cabin

Came across a way to do a ceiling that seems to meet all that I am looking for. I was wondering what would be the best sheet rock to use so that sagging will not be noticed - 1/2 sag resistant, 5/8 etc). Please note that no nails/screws will be used on the sheet rock. The ceiling rafters are 16 oc.

Thanks
Glenn

 

Hmm,
I think 1/2" would be fine. You are only spanning 14-1/2". I can't see the panels sagging in that short of a distance.

I'm wondering where you found this picture and what the goal is. I've never seen a ceiling like this. It's like you're making your own suspended ceiling. I guess this would be excellent if you ever wanted access to area above panels.

Welcome by the way.

 

Thanks for the reply Handyone. You are correct that it is like a suspended ceiling - but with very low ceiling lost. This is only a cabin and access to the attic is only via the ceiling. Instead of using cleats I am thinking about using 1x4 screwed to the bottom of the ceiling joist. A small lost of ceiling height but I think it will look better. Cost is very small compared with a suspended ceiling (Armstrong), CeilingMax, or CeilingLink

I was/am concerned about the sagging because of the lack of nails - just laying in there. Suspended ceiling also have this problem.

 

With your location I don't see cold temperatures and condensation being an issue as cabin air will easily leak past those panels.

Drywall, however, is very poor at remaining flat if not attached. My climate here in Maine is much different, but when I store unused pieces of 1/2" drywall, even leaned very slightly against a wall, they will sag and if your humidity levels are higher than mine yours will sag even more. Of course you could flip them every year or as needed .

When prices are low, osb isn't a lot more than drywall, double I'm guessing.

Why the ceiling? Looks or trying to keep heat contained below? Heat and cooking could create a moisture problem, even in AL.

Bud

 

Hi Bud - I have R30 fiberglass between the ceiling joists and the ceiling is to hide that but still have access to the attic if needed (hopefully never). The cabin will be shut down most of the time during the winter with the exception of a dehumidifier. I am able to maintain about 46% humidity during the winter. During the summer the AC will keep the humidity down.

OSB is an option along with other materials. I really like this ceiling approach for my specific needs

 

I'd go with OSB. Like Bud said, drywall is prone to sag especially if it's not nailed/screwed. If you do go with drywall painting all 6 sides would minimize it's absorption of moisture.

 

Now you are starting to worry me and maybe in your climate my concerns are unfounded. But 46% winter RH is borderline when that air enters a much colder attic. As the air gets colder the RH goes up. 46% RH at 60 degrees will have a dew point at 39 degrees. The dew point is 100% RH and that can grow mold.

Is the current attic ventilated, soffits, gables, ridge, or other? If no ventilation, then the moisture from inside will accumulate in the attic. it's strange, but moist air is lighter than dry air at the same temperature.

Bud

 

We made our own drop ceiling in a couple of rustic bathrooms because the owner didn't like cheezy white panels and rusty grid. Frames are tees of cedar with scrap beadboard planks left over.

 

Hi Bud - the attic is well ventilated with continuous soffit vents and a roof ridge vent so it will assume the relative humidity of the outside air but it should also be slightly warmer than the outside air because of the black roof and all the leaves are off the trees. During the summer it is in the shade almost all day.