Q.
(a) With the use of diagrams, describe the differences between fixed ceiling and suspended ceiling. (15 marks)
(b) Explain five (5) types of ceiling finishes normally used for suspended ceiling. (10 marks)
(25 marks, 2016 Q5)
A.
a)
Suspended ceiling is also called dropped ceiling.
From Wikipedia:
A dropped ceiling is a secondary ceiling, hung below the main (structural) ceiling. It may also be referred to as a drop ceiling, T-bar ceiling, false ceiling, suspended ceiling, grid ceiling, drop in ceiling, drop out ceiling, or ceiling tiles and is a staple of modern construction and architecture in both residential and commercial applications.
Fixed Ceiling or 'drywall' ceiling is direct ceiling fitted onto the joists or rafts of the roof.
It can be plasterboard, wallboard, gypsum panel, sheet rock, or gypsum board directly nailed underneath the raft skeletons of the roof.
Below are examples of suspended ceilings.
Fixed ceiling is just a ceiling immediately below the upper floor, without any suspended structure.
As the question is 15 marks, thus more is required.
Disadvantage of direct fixed ceiling is installation
From start to finish, more physical work goes into a drywall ceiling vs. a drop ceiling. Drywall sheets average about 60 lbs. and hoisting them up to the ceiling requires two sets of sturdy arms or a drywall lift. After the drywall is attached to the ceiling beams, there is still a lot of finishing work to do, including covering screw heads, sanding, and painting.
Advantages of dropped/suspended ceilings
The biggest advantage drop ceilings have over drywall is that you have easy access to plumbing, cable and electrical wiring, and duct work – all of which can be smartly tucked above the grid.
Also, if any maintenance issues arise, you can simply remove a ceiling tile. Or if a tile gets damaged, it’s easy to replace it. Any damage done to drywall means tearing down the affected sheet and replacing it with a new one - and more prep, sanding, and painting.
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