A false ceiling, also known as a dropped ceiling or suspended ceiling, is a secondary ceiling that is suspended below the main structural ceiling of a room or space. It is typically constructed using a framework of metal grids or channels, which are hung from the main ceiling using wires or other support systems. Panels or tiles made from materials such as gypsum, metal, wood, or plastic are then fitted into this framework to create the finished ceiling surface.
False ceilings offer several advantages, including:
Aesthetic appeal: False ceilings can enhance the visual appeal of a space by concealing unsightly structural elements such as wiring, pipes, ductwork, and beams. They also provide an opportunity to incorporate decorative elements such as recessed lighting, ceiling fans, or intricate designs.
Acoustic control: Certain types of false ceilings, particularly those made from sound-absorbing materials like mineral fiber or acoustic tiles, can help improve the acoustics of a room by reducing echoes and noise levels.
Thermal insulation: False ceilings can contribute to the thermal insulation of a space by creating an additional layer of air between the main ceiling and the false ceiling. This helps to reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, leading to improved energy efficiency and comfort.
Concealed utilities: False ceilings allow for easy access to the space above for maintenance and repairs while keeping utilities hidden from view. This makes it easier to install and maintain lighting fixtures, HVAC systems, sprinklers, and other building services.
Overall, false ceilings are a versatile and practical solution for improving the appearance, comfort, and functionality of interior spaces in both residential and commercial buildings.
2. What is False Ceiling?
False ceiling is provided below the roof slab on suspended supports.
The false celling is usually provided for temperature control (heat insulation for AC), to install
lights, or to conceal electrical and other networking cables and ugly or too high ceiling.
False ceiling is an example of modern construction and architecture in both residential and
commercial applications.
3. Types of False Ceiling?
False ceilings can be differentiated into many types based on their uses, material used and
appearance and visibility. The major classification based on materials used are listed briefly
below,
Gypsum Ceiling
Plaster of Paris Ceiling
Fiber Ceiling
Wooden Ceiling
Glass Ceiling
Metal Ceiling
Synthetic Leather or Cloth Ceiling
4. Components or Parts of False Ceiling:
The following figure shows the various components of a false ceiling:
5. Gypsum False Ceiling
Gypsum false ceiling is a hydrated sulfate of calcium. This type of false ceiling are lightweight,
sound insulated, fire resistance, soft and thermally insulated. Gypsum false ceiling comes in the
shape of square boards that are hung with the help of iron framework. The finishing work on
these boards like paints, laminates, wallpapers and texture finish gives good look.
6. Plaster of Paris Ceiling
Plaster of Paris (POP) is the majorly used material in the construction of false ceiling. POP is
obtained when gypsum is heated to a certain degree. It gives the both aesthetical and functional
help. Plaster of Paris false ceiling are attractive, almost no maintenance and has a long life span.
They are very excellent insulators or heat and cold. These types of false ceiling don’t only hide
the ugly members of structure, ventilation ducts and conduits but also give smooth finish to the
ceiling.
7. Fiber False Ceiling
Fiber false ceiling are in high demand for the construction of false ceiling due to low cost and
east installation. The material used to manufacture fiber ceiling panels are man made by
synthetic and natural minerals. As these are man-made they come in many shapes and sizes.
8. Wooden False Ceiling
Wooden false ceiling is used due to its natural textures and pattern. Nowadays this types of false
ceiling are used commonly as it gives a pleasant look to the eyes. Wooden false ceiling being
costly, is not used in malls and hospitals but can be installed in residential buildings. They can be
given various finishes, or painted to get the right look.
Wooden false ceiling has many disadvantages, majorly which are:
• Prone to thermite attack.
• Prone to warping.
• The room should be thermally controlled.
9. Advantages of False Ceiling
• It provides a smooth homogeneous surface to the roof.
• It provides fire protection as it creates compartmentation.
• False ceiling helps in acoustical treatment.
• It conceals all the non-pleasing elements and hides it from the viewer’s eyes.
• It also hides the pipelines and the electrical cables running in the room. All the ducts of air-
conditioning can be hidden under it.
• False ceiling materials are easy to install and cheap as compared to traditional roof systems.
10. Disadvantages of False Ceiling
• The most worrying aspect of having a false ceiling would be pests. They can get through into
the space between and can start their own breeding which might lead to a lot of trouble.
• Also be careful while putting up decorations or hangings while you have a false ceiling in
place. Make sure you know the strength and durability, do's and don'ts with regard to your
ceiling.
• Lastly, the false ceiling would reduce the height of the ceiling considerably and hence do not
install false ceiling unless you have a decent ceiling height.
