False Ceiling

FALSE CEILING

A false ceiling is a fitted ceiling that is suspended below the original ceiling of a room or home. It is provided below the roof slab on hanging supports. The false ceiling is usually provided for temperature control like heat insulation for air conditioning, to install lights, or to conceal electrical and other networking cables. False ceiling is the advancement in modern construction and architecture to implement the interior designs in both residential and commercial applications. It can be differentiated into many types based on their uses, material used and appearance and visibility.

TYPES OF FALSE CEILING

The major classifications based on materials used are listed briefly as follows:

Gypsum False Ceiling: Gypsum false ceiling is a hydrated sulfate of calcium. This type of false ceiling is 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 appearance.

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 serves both the aesthetical and functional purpose. Plaster of Paris false ceiling are attractive, almost no maintenance is required and has a long life span. They are very excellent insulators of heat and cold. These types of false ceiling gives smooth finish to the ceiling.

Fibre false Ceiling: These are in high demand for the construction of false ceiling due to low cost and easy installation. The materials 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.

Wooden False Ceiling: This type of ceiling is commonly used due to its natural textures, pattern and pleasant look. Wooden false ceiling being costly, it is not used in malls and hospitals but can be installed in residential buildings. They can be given various finishes and paintings to get the right look. Wooden false ceiling has many disadvantages like termite attack and warping.

Glass False Ceiling: Glass is a non-crystalline material with the property of brittle and transparent. But this can be altered to make it non brittle and non- transparent using some admixtures. As glass is a good insulator of heat, it can be used for false ceiling. This type of false ceiling improves aesthetical appearance of the building.

Metal Ceiling: As metal is a hard and durable material, it is used extensively in the false ceiling. When the metal surface is polished it gives a shiny surface which is a treat for eyes. The metals used in this are galvanized iron and aluminum. The cost of this ceiling is low as they are easy to install and access. The hidden members of the structure are easily accessed as the panels are easily removable and reattached. The construction cost becomes less as the installation, fixing and maintained is low.

Synthetic Leather or Cloth Ceiling: The materials used in this type of ceilings are either leather or cloth. As both the materials are man-made they can be given any form, shape and design which improve the aesthetic view of interior of the building. As these collects dust and has low light transferring property it's only used in temporary tents or other temporary buildings.

ADVANTAGES OF FALSE CEILING

❖ False ceiling materials are easy to install and cheap as compared to traditional roof systems and also gives aesthetic appearance.

❖ It provides a smooth homogeneous surface to the roof and helps in acoustics.

❖ It conceals all the non-pleasing elements and hides it from the viewer's eyes.

❖ It provides fire protection as it separates the roof.

DISADVANTAGES OF FALSE CEILING

❖ The major disadvantage 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.

❖ False ceiling would reduce the height of the ceiling considerably and hence it is not recommended to install false ceiling unless for a decent ceiling height.

❖ Decorations or hangings in false ceiling can be done only after considering the strength and durability of the false ceiling.