Suspended Ceiling Materials

Tools

• Having the proper tools on hand ensures you are able to install the ceiling with few problems. A level is necessary to install the ceiling evenly. While the existing ceiling provides a guide, it might not be perfectly level, so you want to do your own leveling when installing the new ceiling components. Other necessary tools include a hammer, tape measure, drill, screwdriver and utility knife to make any cuts on the tiles for the ceiling. A step stool or ladder is also necessary to reach the ceiling during the installation process.

Grid System

• The grid system creates the base of the suspended ceiling system. It includes the perimeter pieces, or bars that you attach to the wall as the outer frame of the ceiling. Getting the perimeter level is key to the entire ceiling. As well, the grid system includes the runners, which are the bars that create the frame over the entire ceiling. The runners hold the ceiling tiles in place. They run in both directions across the ceiling to create rectangular openings that are 2-feet-by-4-feet. If you choose tiles that are 2-feet-by-2-feet, you will also have connectors that divide the 2-feet-by-4-feet rectangles into 2-feet-by-2-feet squares.

Tiles

• The tiles are the lightweight panels that go into the grid. Tiles come in a variety of designs, letting you customize your suspended ceiling. You can cut the tiles with a utility knife, which gives you the best control and reduces the amount of dust generated. The tiles go above the runners and then rest on top of them to complete the ceiling.

Other Supplies

• While the runners and tiles are the main materials needed in a dropped ceiling, a few additional materials make the ceiling more stable and easier to install. The main runners for the ceiling need additional support from above. To do this, screw eyebolts into the ceiling joists, and string pieces of 16-gauge wire from the eyebolts to the main runners. Tie a string perpendicular to the runners at the correct level to serve as a guide to get the wire-suspended runners level.

Lighting Materials

• Additional materials are necessary if you plan to install lights in the suspended ceiling. Look for fluorescent light fixtures made to go into the grid in one of the tile spaces. In addition to the light fixture and wiring, you need a flexible metal conduit to cover the wiring. You'll also need a box connector to join the conduit with the junction box. Hire an electrician if you aren't comfortable with the wiring work yourself.