What to Do With My Basement Ceiling?

Suspended Ceiling

• If you are looking for a budget-friendly option for an unfinished or damaged basement ceiling, a suspended ceiling system is an ideal option. The ceiling consists of metal grid work that attaches to the joists, and the metal frames contain channels that hold the individual panels that make up the ceiling. A suspended ceiling can easily hide a damaged preexisting ceiling, as well as unattractive pipes, duct work and cables in an unfinished ceiling. However, while the ceiling hides these features, you still have easy access if you need to make repairs. The tiles come in a variety of styles and designs, so you can customize the look of your basement ceiling. A suspended ceiling system is also easy to install, so you can tackle the job yourself if you enjoy do-it-yourself projects.

Drywall

• The most traditional option for finishing a basement ceiling is drywall. Unlike a suspended ceiling, drywall offers a permanent surface for the ceiling that is highly durable. It also gives your basement a more finished look because the ceiling resembles those in the rest of your home. However, the installation is difficult and time-consuming, so you will likely have to hire a contractor for the job. A drywall ceiling also makes it much more difficult to access any plumbing, electrical and HVAC connections that might be in your basement ceiling. You may actually need to move some cables and pipes so they aren't in the way when installing the ceiling.

Tin Tile

• For a truly distinctive look for your basement ceiling, consider finishing it with pressed tin ceiling tiles. The tiles have an attractive texture and a metallic finish that catches the light to brighten your basement. You can apply them over a bare drywall ceiling to instantly give it added flair. You can also add them to an unfinished basement ceiling by installing a plywood substrate first. As with a traditional drywall ceiling, using tin tile for your basement ceiling is a more permanent option that makes accessing plumbing and electrical work more difficult. However, you may find that the decorative look that they provide is worth the trouble.

Paint

• The easiest, least costly way to finish a basement ceiling is simply to paint it. By covering all of the unfinished ceiling elements in the same shade, you'll draw attention away from the rough look of the joists, pipes, cables and subfloor so the ceiling fades away. You can choose from a variety of colors for the ceiling, depending on your preference. A light color such as white, cream or yellow can brighten your basement, while a darker shade such as blue, gray or brown may do a more effective job of concealing the unfinished ceiling.