What is a Suspended Ceiling?
Suspended ceilings are also sometimes known as ‘dropped ceilings’ or ‘false ceilings’. The ceiling is created with a gridwork structure that is fixed to the roof of the building, individual ceiling tiles are then placed into the gridwork to create the ceiling. The individual ceiling tiles are usually manufactured from mineral fibre (materials used include recycled newsprint, clay, perlite, starch and fibreglass) or metal. Suspended ceilings are fairly easy to install.
Ideal for both new builds and refurbishing, our suspended ceiling kits offer a customisable system for any commercial interior space. These handy all-in-one packages include all the components you need to easily install a full ceiling system.
What Does an MF Ceiling Kit Include?
Within your suspended ceiling kit, we will provide:
- Ceiling Tiles
- Ceiling Gridwork (this includes main runners, cross tees, edge trim, suspension wire and top fixings)
Mineral Fibre Ceiling Tiles
Mineral fibre tiles are the most popular and widely used type of suspended ceiling tile. Mineral fibre tiles are manufactured using a variety of recycled and natural materials including recycled newsprint, clay, perlite, starch and fibreglass, with different quantities of each being used depending on the characteristics and performance of the tile.
A mineral fibre tile that contains more fibreglass or mineral wool is known as ‘soft’ and allows a higher level of sound absorption but less sound attenuation/insulation than a ‘hard’ mineral fibre tile. This is because ‘hard’ mineral fibre tiles contain more clay, which is heavier/denser and therefore provides better insulation.
Trusted Quality From Workplace Interior Shop
At Workplace Interior Shop, we only supply material from trusted manufacturers. All products are equally approved and are compliant with UK building regulations. If you are looking for more help, get in touch today on 01242 801909 or emailteam@workplaceinteriorshop.co.uk. Our expert team will be happy to help!
What are the Benefits of Suspended Ceilings
- Design/Aesthetics
With the huge variety of products available today there is a suspended ceiling to suit any design. From coloured ceiling tiles and gridwork to a metal ceiling for that industrial look, installing a suspended ceiling can create a modern, sleek finish or even become a bold design feature within the room. While our ceiling kits are limited to standard finishes, our expert team can easily create a full kit for you, using your specified tile choice. If you would like to discuss further tile options, get in touch today.
- Acoustics
The acoustic performance of a room can have a huge impact on those people working within it. It is important to get the acoustics right across all applications from hospitals to schools to offices. Noise pollution can have a detrimental effect on performance.
The ceiling is usually the largest unbroken surface area within a room and therefore it can have a huge impact on acoustic performance. A sound-absorbing suspended ceiling can help by absorbing any sound that would usually reverberate around the room, this helps keep excess noise levels down. A sound-insulating ceiling is another option that is ideal for meeting rooms where the noise needs to be contained to increase privacy.
- Energy Efficiency
Reducing the ceiling height in any space using a suspended ceiling essentially creates a ‘trap’ for any warmer air that rises and stops this heat from being lost through the roof of the building. Certain suspended ceilings are better at insulating than others and extra insulation can also be incorporated into the ceiling. An energy-efficient suspended ceiling can save you money on energy bills.
- Safety & Practicality
Installing a suspended ceiling covers up utilities such as electrics and plumbing, however, because the ceiling tiles can be removed, access to the void and these utilities is quick and easy. Some suspended ceilings are fire rated to help prevent the spread of fire. Also, the modular nature of the tiles means they can be removed with ease, allowing non-disruptive access for maintenance to the services above.
- Lighting
Harsh or insufficient lighting can lead to eye-strain, fatigue and headaches. A suspended ceiling can improve the lighting in a space by reflecting any natural light back into the room. Ceiling tiles have a light reflectance score published by the manufacturer as a percentage. Ceiling tiles with a high light reflectance can return up to 90% of the light back into a space, compared to around 75% for standard ceiling tiles.
Types of Suspended Ceiling Kits
Suspended ceilings come in various types, each offering unique benefits and aesthetic options suitable for different environments. At Workplace Interior Shop, we provide a selection of suspended ceiling kits that cater to a range of requirements:
Square Edge Ceiling Kits
These feature tiles with square edges that sit flush against the grid, creating a seamless look. Ideal for modern and minimalist designs.
Tegular Edge Ceiling Kits
Tegular edge tiles hang slightly below the grid level, providing a dimensional, textured look that adds depth to the ceiling. This design is perfect for adding architectural interest.
Fire Rated Ceiling Kits
A structurally fire rated ceiling is different to a fire tested ceiling tile. Structural fire-resistant tiles or fire-resistant ceiling grids do not exist independently, only as a combination of materials from the same manufacturer when installed to a set of standards. If your project requires a structural fire rated ceiling, the installation will need to meet strict guidelines to achieve certification. Get in touch for specialist advice.
Acoustic Ceiling Kits
These are specifically designed to improve sound quality and reduce noise pollution within a space. Acoustic tiles are perfect for schools, offices, and healthcare facilities where controlling sound is crucial.
Each type of suspended ceiling offers specific features, such as enhanced aesthetics, improved safety, or better acoustic performance. If you need assistance determining which suspended ceiling is best suited for your project, please contact Workplace Interior Shop. Our team is ready to provide expert advice and support tailored to your needs.
Our Customers Also Ask
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What tools do I need to install a suspended ceiling kit?
To install a drop ceiling kit from Workplace Interior Shop, you'll need a few basic tools that are commonly found in most toolkits. These include:
- Tape Measure - Essential for accurate measurements to ensure your ceiling grid and tiles fit perfectly.
- Stanley Knife - Used to trim ceiling tiles and gridwork to size.
- Straight Edge or Square - For making precise cuts on tiles when custom sizes are needed.
- Pencil or Marker - To mark measurements and cutting lines on tiles and gridwork.
- Level - To ensure the gridwork is perfectly horizontal for a professional finish.
- Drill with Screwdriver Bits - For securing the suspension wire and gridwork to the ceiling structure.
- Ladders or Scaffold - Depending on the height of your ceiling, to safely reach and work on the installation.
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Are suspended ceiling kits easy to install?
Yes, suspended ceiling kits are designed for ease of installation. Whether you're a professional contractor or taking on a DIY project, our kits come with all components needed — including ceiling tiles, gridwork, suspension wire and fixings — along with straightforward instructions. This means you can achieve a professional-looking installation without the need for specialised tools or extensive experience. The simplicity of the system allows for quick and efficient installation, saving time and effort.
