Can I Put Drywall Over a Drop Ceiling?

Considerations

• Before replacing a drop ceiling with drywall, determine the scale of the project by removing tiles to examine the structural ceiling. If the structural ceiling consists of many parallel wooden beams and there are no low-hanging pipes or ducts, you likely can install drywall with minimal preparation.

Expert Insight

• Unless you’re experienced in home repairs, ask a professional contractor to guide you through the project. Chances are the drop ceiling is there because the ceiling is not ready for drywall. For example, your drop ceiling might be concealing wiring, plumbing or ductwork that hangs below the structural ceiling. You must hire a professional to move these features up into the ceiling before you can install drywall. Often, replacing a drop ceiling with drywall entails many such expenses, so an expert’s advice might save you from starting a project that is more than you can handle.

Removal

• If you decide to proceed with the removal, start by pulling out the lightweight panels, which lie flat on the flanges of the metal grid. Then remove the metal grid system. Typically, the grid is suspended from the structural ceiling by wire or twine, which you can sever with tin snips or heavy-duty scissors. Along the edges of the drop ceiling are support rails called perimeter molding. Remove the screws supporting the perimeter molding, using a screwdriver or screw gun, or pry off the molding using a hammer or pry bar.

Drywall Installation

• Cut the drywall to size. Ask assistants to hold each board up to the wood rafters. Use a screw gun to install drywall screws along each wood stud. Space the screws every 6 to 8 inches. Finish the drywall by embedding paper tape in joint compound over each seam between the drywall boards.