False ceiling
The false ceiling offers a series of advantages, such as thermal and acoustic insulation, as well as the aesthetic improvement of the space. For this reason, it can be a good option when it comes to making renovations at home and even in the office. However, not all of us really know what it is.
Removable ceilings are currently widely used by architects and interior designers. In general, it is several plasterboards that are placed continuously in constructions with high walls, a few centimeters below the ceiling itself. To achieve this, a structure with metal or wooden profiles is commonly used, where the plates are fixed with the help of self-drilling screws. In this way, it is possible to completely transform the space.
What is the usefulness of the false ceiling?
Although there are decorative false ceilings, it is not just an aesthetic solution. In general, this type of construction has the objective of complementing thermal insulation in areas where temperatures drop a lot in the cold months of the year. In this way, it is possible to save energy in the heating system, since the heat is maintained for a longer time.
There is also an acoustic false ceiling, which allows external noise to be isolated to protect the family from noise pollution and enjoy a more peaceful life inside the house.
Most used materials in the elaboration of false ceilings
- plasterboard
There are different components to build false ceilings and each one is indicated to obtain certain results. One of the most used is plasterboard, since it is easier to install and maintain than others. It is called plasterboard false ceiling due to the renowned Spanish manufacturer of this material.
Plasterboard usually comes in 1.2m wide and 3m long ceiling tiles, while the thickness can be 13, 15 or 25mm. However, this material can be obtained in different sizes and even made to measure. In many cases, modern plasterboard ceilings are combined with other materials to increase the level of insulation.
- Plaster
Although plasterboard is currently the most widely used material, we must say that the plaster false ceiling was for some time the first option and in Spain it is still a widely used material, partly because it weighs less and offers great versatility when it comes to making creative decorations, but also for its high resistance to fire. In addition, we can say that it is a cheaper option. However, it is necessary to mention that it is less flexible than plasterboard. Therefore, it cracks easily in case of structural movements of the building.
- Wood
Wooden false ceilings can be very elegant or provide a natural touch, but they are also very useful for insulating the interior of the house, thus preventing the entry of annoying noise from outside. For this reason, wood is recommended for rehearsal rooms, recording rooms, among others. Generally, it comes in slats with slots that fit together to facilitate assembly.
- Metal
One of the most versatile is the metal false ceiling, since it comes in a large number of colors and is easy to adapt to any architectural form, allowing you to create different designs. It is widely used for commercial buildings, but is increasingly used in homes.
The most common is the aluminum false ceiling, as it is a resistant material, durable over time and requires very little maintenance. Also, it is lighter than other metals, so it can be installed more easily.
- Fiberglass
A removable fiberglass false ceiling may be the cheapest option, but it is important to note that the price can vary greatly depending on the model chosen. Although its use is more recent, this material has presented a good capacity to isolate sound. Likewise, it comes in multiple presentations, such as smooth, corrugated, translucent, with printed designs, colors, etc. Therefore, it is possible to find a suitable one for any interior design.
- Vinyl
Vinyl ceiling tiles are specially designed to protect against moisture, due to their great insulating power. For this reason, removable ceilings for bathrooms and kitchens made with this material are common. They are generally made of laminated plaster and covered with polyvinyl chloride, which is capable of waterproofing the ceiling and facilitating maintenance at the same time.
False ceiling installation
The assembly of a decorative false ceiling must be carried out by professionals to ensure correct placement and a better finish. However, if you want to do the work with your own hands, it is advisable to take safety into account, since they are usually hard and heavy pieces that can cause accidents. In this sense, the use of safety footwear, protective glasses, helmet and gloves is essential to avoid accidents.
Among the types of false ceilings, there are the so-called continuous ones, which are made with plasterboard and laminated plaster. These go on a stud structure and have tapes and pastes in the joints of the plates to increase the quality of the insulation and provide a more pleasing aesthetic. However, it must be mentioned that these are fixed ceilings, so they cannot be removed to reinstall them. In this sense, it is difficult to access the attic.
On the other hand, the accessible false ceiling is installed on a metal base anchored to the real ceiling, which considerably facilitates assembly. In this way, it is possible to use a wide variety of materials, which is why it is the most widely used form of installation today. Also, it’s nice to know that it can be easily disassembled and even a single part replaced if necessary.
As we have seen, false ceilings are functional and at the same time provide an original finish in homes and offices, but it is important to take this information into account to choose the most convenient according to the requirements.
