Drop-Down Gorgeous - Five Myths About Suspended Basement Ceilings Debunked

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Drop-Down Gorgeous - Five Myths About Suspended Basement Ceilings Debunked

(HIT) - It’s no secret—a finished basement can positively impact a home’s value and provide a significant return on investment. Yet, during the renovation process, many homeowners underestimate the value of basic do-it-yourself projects. One of the easiest ways to improve the basement space is to start at the top with a suspended, or drop ceiling. Instead of opting for drywall during renovations, consider the many benefits of a suspended ceiling, including the cost savings associated with self-installation.



	One of the easiest ways to improve a basement space is to start at the top with a suspended, or drop ceiling. Armstrong's 1205 Raised Panel design from the HomeStyle Collection, which reflects light, resists fire and reduces sound, is featured throughout this basement game room.

"A little sweat equity can go a long way in saving you money during a basement remodel," said Gene and Katie Hamilton, veteran do-it-yourself writers and home improvement experts. "Aside from the cost savings, homeowners should also consider that drywall is more difficult to transport because it’s heavier, and significantly messier to install than a suspended ceiling system."

Suspended ceilings also allow access to the home’s systems, including pipes and electrical wires, making repairs a quick and painless task.

Many homeowners can be wary of tackling the seemingly large task of installing a suspended ceiling, but Katie insists that it’s easier than it looks.

"Time spent in the planning stage is time well spent and Armstrong couldn’t make it easier," said Katie. "These ceilings can be installed over the weekend—the planning takes longer than installation, but there is no guess work when you use Armstrong’s resources. For help getting started and throughout the process, there are great tools available on their Web site, www.Armstrong.com, including installation videos and detailed instructions from Armstrong’s residential ceiling experts."

Still not convinced? Gene and Katie Hamilton weigh in to help clear up five misconceptions about suspended ceilings so that homeowners can confidently tackle a new suspended ceiling installation.

Myth #1: Basement Ceilings Have to Be Ugly

You don’t have to sacrifice fashion for function. Armstrong’s HomeStyle^® line of decorative panels is designed for use in a suspended ceiling grid. They offer a variety of unique, contemporary product solutions and give homeowners design options that far exceed the flexibility of drywall.

Most homeowners with an existing suspended ceiling have a grid system that fits 2’ x 4’ panels. Many people don’t realize that by simply installing cross tees, they can upgrade to a more aesthetically-pleasing 2’ x 2’ panel.

"Armstrong’s HomeStyle line offers a variety of options to suit every design style, from contemporary to traditional," said Vicky Landis, marketing communications project specialist for Armstrong Residential Ceilings. "The most popular, high-performance mineral fiberboard products in the line are the 1205 Single Raised Panel and the Sahara™ 271, which are ideal for any basement space – from recreational rooms to bedrooms."

Another unique feature of the HomeStyle line is the grid-blending characteristics offered with the 1201 and 1205 Raised Panel that improve the overall aesthetic of suspended ceiling treatments. The innovative design of these panels "fool the eye," making it seem as though the grid suspension system does not exist and is part of the ceiling’s overall patterned look.

Myth #2: Ceilings Waste Valuable Headroom

With an Armstrong suspended ceiling there is virtually no loss of ceiling height. Panels sit no more than 3" from the ceiling base.

Myth #3: Using Drywall Won’t Prevent Access to My Home’s Systems

On the contrary, problems with plumbing and electrical systems require drywall to be torn out, leading to costly repairs. In comparison, ceiling panels can be easily removed for access to home systems, and damaged panels are simple and cost-effective to replace.

Myth #4: Basement Moisture Isn’t an Issue with Ceilings

According to Gene and Katie, one of the best habitats for mold is drywall—it’s far more susceptible to trapped moisture. To help homeowners avoid such problems, a selection of Armstrong’s HomeStyle ceiling products are available with BioBlock®, a treatment that inhibits the spread of mold and mildew, and sag-resistant HumiGuard^® Plus for areas with high humidity.

Myth #5: A Basement Ceiling Doesn’t Make a Difference

A new ceiling can transform a basement space from dark and dingy to light and open. "In order for your basement to look like an extension of the rest of the home you must pay attention to detail. Providing a seamless transition between rooms is essential to creating a warm, inviting space," says Gene. In addition to offering aesthetic benefits, many HomeStyle ceiling products reflect light, resist fire and reduce sound.

Getting Started

To begin your project, visit Armstrong’s Web site (www.armstrong.com) to choose a product and plan your suspended ceiling installation with the material estimator and project planner. The site also allows you to create a shopping list of materials and tools, helps locate the Armstrong retailer nearest you and offers instructional videos to guide you throughout the installation process.

"The bottom line is that suspended ceilings are a simple, yet valuable, addition to any basement renovation," said Katie. "With no more myths to hide behind, homeowners can now go out and tackle their own suspended ceiling installation with confidence."

Company Background

Armstrong World Industries, Inc. is a global leader in the design and manufacture of floors, ceilings and cabinets. In 2008, Armstrong’s consolidated net sales totaled approximately $3.4 billion. Based in Lancaster, Pa., Armstrong operates 40 plants in 10 countries and has approximately 12,200 employees worldwide.

Courtesy: Home Improvement News and Information Center

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