How to Disguise a Basement Pipe

Install a drop ceiling. Though you can pay to have a drop ceiling put in, it is one of the simpler ceiling projects to complete yourself. Also called suspended ceilings, these ceilings are made of lightweight panels supported by metal grids. The grid is held up by L-shaped perimeter brackets attached to the walls that feature main runners, or long stringers, generally installed every 4 feet, and by wires attached to ceiling jousts. Drop ceilings also work as sound absorbers and are easy to remove in case of emergency or repair.

Paint the pipes. If you rent, check what your lease says about painting or get permission from your landlord. Use dark paints to blend the pipe with an otherwise dark wood ceiling, though this will make your basement appear even dimmer. Light-colored paints brighten up the room but will make the pipes all the more noticeable. If you decided to go with light paints, use numerous paint colors to create assorted patterns and designs.

Use fabric to cover the pipe or the entire ceiling. Staple lightweight fabrics to the ceiling where applicable with a staple gun; use several colored and patterned fabrics or one large fabric piece. Look to fabric stores for ideas or reuse leftover lightweight fabric from other projects. As with a drop ceiling, a fabric ceiling treatment is easy to remove and will not block access to pipes, ductwork and wiring.