Ceilings-They'Re More Than A Just Flat Surface Above Your Head

To many people, ceilings are just ceilings-there is nothing special about them; they are simply a large, boring flat surface above their heads. However, architects, designers and general contractors strive to make the homes they design and build distinctive. So, to a designer and/or a builder, a ceiling is an opportunity to create an attractive and unique element in the home. If you are in a position where you are having ceilings installed, here are a few of the options you have to choose from.

Conventional Ceilings

A conventional ceiling is the standard, "plain" version of a ceiling. This type of ceiling is basically a wall that is laid on its side and then covered with plaster or drywall. Standard ceilings are generally 8 feet high in order to blend with the standard sizes of other construction materials, such as the walls. A conventional ceiling has its advantages, such as they are generally easy to build and they are functional. The main disadvantage is that there is nothing distinctive about this type of ceiling. There are a few options to make a conventional ceiling less "plain", such as building a conventional ceiling that is 10-12 feet high as opposed to the standard 8-feet. This will make the room feel bigger and more open, but building this type of ceiling is more expensive because it requires using construction materials outside of the standard size.

Suspended Ceilings

A suspended ceiling is a flat and generally built under a pre-existing ceiling. This type of ceiling is often used to hide old ceilings, plumbing, wiring or other mechanical fixtures. A suspended ceiling is made with metal grid that is suspended from the floor joists of the floor above or an existing ceiling and lightweight panels that are laid into the grid. One of the most significant disadvantages of a suspended ceiling is that it decreases the height of the ceiling, generally by about 6-inches.

Cathedral Ceilings

A cathedral ceiling is a high, sloping ceiling that is directly attached to the roof trusses, so it rises all the way up to the top of the house. A cathedral ceiling will provide a dramatic design element to the room as well as give the room an open and spacious feeling. A cathedral ceiling can provide a dramatic look to the space, but there are also a few disadvantages that come with this type of ceiling. Since the ceiling panels are attached to the roof trusses, it can be difficult to provide sufficient insulation between the roof and the ceiling. This type of ceiling is also makes it difficult to clean, paint and change light bulbs.

Adding a decorative ceiling during an original build is the best option. However, it is possible to add decorative ceilings as part of a home upgrade or remodel. If you are considering a change in your current ceiling design, because this type of alteration typically includes structural changes, it is important to talk with a general contractor, such as from Mile High Acoustical Ceilings, that is familiar with modifying the original ceilings.

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