A suspended ceiling, otherwise known as a dropped ceiling, typically takes the form of a grid of steel supports with square or rectangular tiles positioned between them, which is hung below the roof structure or floor above to provide a space for HVAC, cables and plumbing, and to establish an appealing look and feel with no apparent mess.
The suspended ceiling was devised in 1958 by an American called Donald Brown and has changed very little since. Suspended ceilings are generally seldom found in domestic situations, but are frequently encountered in office and industrial facilities where property construction techniques differ and a lot of utilities for example HVAC, loudspeakers and fire detection are made use of.
Suspended ceiling systems usually are not with no negatives, however, and can easily become unsightly after some years of being installed. Frequently, the panels can become discoloured as a result of tobacco smoke or rain water leaks. Panels can sag down, or repetitive removal and reinstallation for maintenance may end up in the sides and corners of the panels becoming broken. If the layout of the space demands alteration, suspended ceilings may be changed to go well with the new layout but it’s frequently performed amateurishly by basic trades-people and may end up in a lousy appearance. In damp conditions for example pools, mold can be a difficulty if allowed to remain without treatment.
Stretch ceilings can be a new innovation which may be a superior alternative to suspended ceilings more often than not.
A stretch ceiling is a PVC sheet that is secured at all sides to the wall surfaces and put under tension so that it becomes flat. A stretch ceiling has many of the positive aspects of a suspended ceiling, in terms of masking unsightly roof beams or aged plaster, but delivers a more appealing finish and tidier installation around pillars and other unusual features. The ceiling may also be curved or arched to make the most of the room available, and may be offered in a variety of colours or even illuminated from behind by coloured lighting. They are also resistant to mold and mildew because water just flows off them, which makes them appropriate for use in damp conditions.
Stretch ceilings are an appealing modern alternative to old fashioned suspended ceilings and they are increasing in popularity.
