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Drop ceilings are common in residential and commercial properties. They are commonly used to hide wiring, and piping, and to cover other damages. They are also soundproof. The best drop ceiling alternatives are those which lend an elegant and unique view to your interior.
Drop ceilings are also known as T-bar ceilings, false ceilings, and suspended ceilings. They are hung below the main ceiling or the roof structure. One of the reasons you need to look for drop ceilings alternatives is because it adds a certain glam quotient to your house. There are many drop ceiling alternatives available if you are looking to remodel your house.
Outline
15 Best Drop Ceiling Alternatives
1. Ceiling Tiles
Ceiling tiles are also known as ceiling panels. They are usually made from mineral fiber and are made of nonporous materials. They won’t soak up the stains and the water leakage won’t damage the tiles. They are one of the most affordable and commonly used ceiling alternatives in both residential, commercial, and industrial properties. You will find these in hotels and offices. They are lightweight and they are placed on a steel or aluminum grid.
There are countless ceiling tiles options you can choose from. They come in different colors, designs, and materials. They are usually added to elevate the aesthetics of the room. They also help in sound reduction and improve the acoustics of the room.
2. Plywood
Plywood ceilings are mostly found in garages and shops. It’s lightweight and easy to handle. They are strong and durable. The main reason why people opt for plywood is that it’s flexible. They can be used on curved spaces easily. It can be easily placed on any design and surface. Plywood can be painted in any color to match the color and decor of your home.
Plywood comes with the additional benefit of being soundproof. They are inexpensive and won’t burn a hole in your pocket. If you are looking for environmentally friendly options, then plywood is your best choice. It’s also a great way to hide wires and pipes.
3. Wooden Planks
If you are looking for DIY options to redo your ceiling, then wooden planks are your best option. The natural beauty of solid wood will add a mellow and cozy touch to your house. They are easy to install and you can hide the ugly blemishes on the ceiling by using wooden planks.
They are perfect for the living room and basement. Most homeowners prefer wooden planks because they are easy to clean. Just water and mild detergent are enough to make the ceiling shiny. They are durable and can be replaced easily. However, you have to keep in mind that water leakage can easily damage wooden planks.
4. Faux Wooden Beams
Faux wooden beams are easy to install and available in hundreds of textures and designs. They are hollow and constructed using natural softwood. They are lightweight and they will accentuate the look of your ceiling. Faux wooden beams resonate with a sophisticated look and they cover up any existing damage on the ceiling.
faux wooden beams are available in many options; MDF, wood, and plastic. The reason why faux wooden beams look like real wood is that they are manufactured using high-density polyurethane. They are versatile, affordable, and durable. They will also improve the overall aesthetics of your place. You will need a professional to install faux wooden beams.
5. Beadboard
Beadboards offer a refined look for ceilings. They have been popular since the Victorian era. They are sophisticated and deliver a naturally chic look for your house. Beadboards have uninterrupted vertical grooves which make the ceiling look refined and cool. The coolest thing about beadboard is that you don’t have to remove the existing ceiling to install the beadboard. You can install them over your current ceiling and remodel your house easily.
They are made from pine. Installing beadboards is basic carpentry and can be taken up as a DIY project by the homeowner. They are cost-friendly. You have to ensure there is no leakage before installing the beadboard. If you are installing beadboards on your own, then many hardware stores sell beadboard kits.
6. Drywall
Drywall screams simplicity. It’s one of the most common, popular, and versatile materials used for construction purposes. It delivers a smooth surface and this is the most preferred option for homeowners and contractors. When you have a drywall ceiling, it makes it easier for you to install any kind of lighting in the room because drilling a hole in drywall isn’t difficult.
You need to attach the ceiling panels before you hang the drywall. The reason why it’s loved so widely is that it allows you to install lighting without any difficulty. Compared to the other drop ceilings, drywall doesn’t steal much height between roof and floor.
7. Acoustic Tiles
Noise can be highly disturbing for many people. That’s why most schools, offices, and auditoriums opt for acoustic tiles. Many people think acoustic tiles are just for walls but they couldn’t be more wrong. They are also used in drop ceilings. They are soundproof. They absorb, diffuse, and block sounds. They are made from thick materials which helps them in sound reduction.
There are two types of acoustic ceiling tiles: suspended and dropped ceiling grid. They are both good at blocking sounds and come in a wide variety of shapes and patterns. Acoustic tiles are great for covering unpleasant infrastructures such as plumbing, wiring, and ductwork. Not all types of acoustic tiles are the same. You need to properly test them before buying.
8. Corrugated Metal
If your taste in interior design is exotic and you want to get your money’s worth, then corrugated metal is your best choice. It provides an industrial look and they can be painted in any color you like. Many people don’t choose this type of ceiling as it is not elegant or visually appealing. They offer a minimalist design yet they are unique.
They can be noisy when they aren’t installed properly. If you don’t want metal, then you can choose chrome or brass as well. They are cheaper than steel and they even last a long time. They are safe from mold, mildew, and cracking. You won’t have to worry about peeling anymore.
9. PVC Panels
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) panels for ceilings are durable and sturdy. They are often seen in commercial and residential properties. The material is strong yet lightweight. They come in a diverse range of sizes, colors, and lengths. They are plastic and the sheet prices vary from one pattern to another.
PVC panels are waterproof and termite-proof. They resist the growth of mold and mildew. The panels can be cut and trimmed according to your likes and desired vision of the ceiling. The only drawback of PVC panels is that they are made of plastic and they aren’t resistant to heat. PVC panels need to be installed properly. Otherwise, they can crack over time.
10. Tin Ceiling
Invented in the 1880s, these thinly rolled tin sheets were a big deal back then. This Victorian type of interior design offers protection from fire and lightning. They come in many designs and can elevate the look of your home. They are more durable than any other type of drop ceiling.
The tin ceiling comes in three different finishing materials: aluminum, copper, and stainless steel. Tin ceilings are an affordable way to add a vintage look to your house. They are a little time-consuming to install. It’s better to hire a professional to do the job.
11. Fiberglass Panels
Made of strong polyester resin and reinforced with fiberglass, these fiberglass panels are lightweight, flexible, and have a continuous surface. They are mostly used in industrial facilities because they provide maximum sanitation.
They come in a variety of colors, shapes, and price ranges. Manufactured from high-density and third-generation glass wool, they are long-lasting and absorb sound. The chances of mold or rust are very low when compared to other types of drop ceilings.
12. Stained-Glass Ceiling
A stained-glass ceiling is the most unique of all false ceilings. It exudes luxury. These are not so common in houses but are found in cathedrals and museums due to their aesthetic brilliance. They are ornaments that consist of real-life art and ooze out a feeling of exceptional charm.
They are a unique way to enhance the aesthetics of your house. They offer luminous color and rich visual senses. You can also opt for a dome-shaped stained-glass ceiling. Their main drawback is that they can be difficult to clean and maintain. Always make sure that you buy these from a genuine supplier who is a master craftsman.
13. Styrofoam Panels
This decorative type of ceiling tile comes in a wide variety of textures and patterns. The main advantage of Styrofoam panels is that they are waterproof and can absorb moisture and are best suited for places with high humidity such as kitchens and bathrooms.
The main reason why people choose styrofoam panels for ceilings is that they can insulate a room. They provide noise insulation. They keep the room cool in summer and warm in winter. The styrofoam panels are lightweight and can be installed over popcorn or stucco ceilings.
14. Tongue and Groove Ceiling
The tongue and groove ceiling offers the most authentic wooden ceiling look. They make a formal yet rustic focal point. If you have an ugly ceiling, then tongue and groove is your best option. Light-colored tones will make the room look bright and big.
Darker tones will make the room look warm and it will create an illusion that the ceiling is hanging low. They can also be installed on floors and walls. They are fast, cost-effective, and come in wooden shades. It’s smooth on one side and rough on the other. They are made of medium-density fiberboard.
15. Wallpaper
You need to prep your ceiling before you decide to wallpaper them. Fix any cracks or imperfections in the ceiling. You can choose any design or pattern. Darker shades of wallpaper make the room look smaller, whereas lighter-toned wallpaper can make smaller rooms look bigger. If you want to draw attention away from any other aspect of your living room, then apply wallpaper on the ceiling or walls to make it the center of attention.
Wallpapers are applied using an adhesive. So, if you have chosen to apply wallpaper to the kitchen or bathroom, then they are at risk of getting peeled because of high moisture. You will have to repaint or reapply the wallpaper when it starts to chip.
Plain white ceilings are boring these days. Select any of the best drop ceiling alternatives from the above list and give a trendy and stylish spin to your home.
