Wednesday, December 26, 2012

What are Dropped Ceiling Tiles?

A dropped ceiling is an alternative ceiling. It is made from tiles of square or rectangular shape. They hang down and are attached to the main ceiling. It is variously referred to drop ceiling/false ceiling/acoustic ceiling/suspended ceiling. It is a style in construction and architecture.

The area between the dropped ceiling and main ceiling, the plenum space is used for returning of HVAC air. This plenum space conceals pipe line, wiring, and/or any sort of line that needs concealing.

Drop ceiling tiles are used in a drop ceiling. These ceiling tiles are made from several materials, and they are available in a wide variety of designs and styles. These drop-ceiling tiles have many benefits over other types of tiles. The first and the foremost thing is they are very easy to install and replace, for example, they provide good insulation.

A metal grid or frame of strong wire is fitted to the roof, for installing the tiles. Then drop ceiling tiles are placed inside the metal grid or frame.

These types of ceiling tile are available in standard sizes. The standard size of small drop ceiling tiles is two feet by two feet (61 centimeters). The large drop ceiling tiles are two feet (61 centimeters) wide by four feet (122 centimeters) long.

A wide variety of lightweight materials are used to make drop ceiling tiles. A commonly used material is Polystyrene which is white. Also available are tin and mirrored ceiling tiles. Semi transparent tiles are useful for creating low light conditions.

Metal ceiling are available in different designs pressed on them. You can choose one of the designs you like. These designs can be either plain or very fancy. You can also paint these tiles for a new look.