False Ceilings are secondary ceilings suspended from the structural floor slab above, creating a void between the underside of the floor slab and the top of the false ceiling. False ceilings are popular in modern houses and buildings as they provide a useful space for concealing unsightly wires and installations that otherwise would alter the interior appearance of the building.

The false ceiling is helpful in distribution of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems and plumbing and wiring services, as well as providing a platform for the installation of speakers, light fittings, wireless antenna and so on.

Types of false ceiling panels:

False ceilings can be classified primarily based on the type of materials used. Each material offers unique advantages and disadvantages. A combination of materials can offer both functional and aesthetic features.

Some popular types of false ceiling panels include Gypsum false ceilings, Wood false ceilings, Fibre false ceilings, PVC false ceiling;

Gypsum false ceiling panels

Gypsum is a popular material for false ceilings because of its thermal and sound insulation, lightweight and fire resistance properties. It is also a soft material. Square gypsum boards can be hung from an iron framework to build a false ceiling. Gypsum is available naturally in shades of brown, white, red, yellow and grey. It is also available as a clear or colourless material. The aesthetic looks of gypsum boards can be enhanced by finishing them with laminates and paints. Gypsum boards are also amenable to wallpaper and texture finishes.

Wood ceiling panels

Wooden false ceilings have excellent natural patterns and textures that can please the eye. Wood is a good material to work with. Wooden panels can come in the form of hollow blocks, boards or panels. They are easy to install often with just screws and nails. They are most suitable for cold climates. They are durable but are susceptible to termite attacks and warping. They can be finished in several ways including painting with appropriate shades of color.

Fibre ceiling tiles

Fibre false ceilings are also known as acoustic or soundproofing ceilings for their sound and heat insulation properties which are achieved by mixing natural and synthetic materials such as bitumen, tars, vegetable fibre, wood and stone. Because of the reinforcements, fibre ceiling tiles acquire toughness, hardness and resistance to fire making them highly suitable for commercial applications in noisy places such as shopping malls, retail showrooms and offices.

PVC false ceiling panels

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is an ideal plastic material for false ceilings in garages, basements, kitchens, toilets and bathrooms. PVC ceiling panels are a highly cost-effective alternative to other costlier panels. These panels are easy to install and maintain. They are lightweight and resistant to moisture and termites. They do not get affected by UV light and hence are colour fast. They can also be finished in a variety of ways giving flexibility in design.