Jade Aden Interiors

What Are Suspended Ceilings and How Do They Work?

Above a Suspended Ceiling

What Are Suspended Ceilings and How Do They Work?

What Are Suspended Ceilings?

Before diving into what a suspended ceiling is, we should clarify that there are a few names for this ceiling system. You might also hear them referred to as drop ceilings or false ceilings; each of these describes the ceiling position.

Let’s explain this further. Suspended ceilings sit under the main structural ceiling, creating the idea of a false ceiling.

They are hung by a metal grid framework, also explaining the name “drop ceilings” which support tiles or panels. The framework creates a gap between the structural ceiling and the panels that make the “suspended” ceiling everyone sees.

Panels are often lightweight, making them easy to remove should you need access to the gap, also known as the plenum. Usually, they are made from mineral fibre, fibreglass, gypsum or metal.

Common spaces you will see these ceiling systems include:

  • Retail spaces
  • Offices
  • Schools
  • Hospitals
  • Other commercial spaces

How Do Suspended Ceilings Work?

As mentioned above, a metal framework or grid system is put in place from the ceiling and walls.

The ceiling tiles are dropped into place within the grid to create a uniform ceiling. Panels hide any wiring, plumbing or ventilation systems that function within the building. But, they can easily be pushed from the bottom and lifted, giving anyone access to the various technical systems above.

Depending on the material used for the tiles or panels, you can control the noise levels within the space as they can be designed to absorb more sound, improving acoustics in busy environments. This is particularly beneficial in open-plan offices or busy hospitals.

Additionally, you can get illuminated suspended ceilings, where lights are put in place of panels, adding extra lighting to the space for a bright and airy feel.

Suspended ceiling systems can be designed specifically to meet your needs, so they can also have speakers or air ventilation systems installed seamlessly.

When Would You Use A Suspended Ceiling?

Suspended ceiling systems are advantageous in several settings for various reasons.

  • Office spaces – They conceal infrastructural systems such as plumbing, creating a tidy sight, all the while managing noise levels.
  • Retail and hospitality – The panels create a uniform and finished appearance that don’t detract from other design aspects but enhances space and light.
  • Healthcare facilities – The uniform look can keep a basic but attractive appearance while providing critical access and noise and hygiene benefits.
  • Educational facilities – Another place where noise control is important for productivity. These ceilings improve acoustics and are easy to configure in large and small spaces.

Benefits Of Suspended Ceilings

As you will likely have discovered by now, there are several benefits to having a suspended ceiling installed in your commercial building.

  • Acoustics – Panels can be designed to absorb noise, improving acoustics in your building so the spaces don’t become too noisy. This allows employees to stay comfortable and focused.
  • Uniform appearance – Panels are uniform, meaning these systems create a clean and tidy appearance that complements any other designs in your space.
  • Flexibility – As the panels can be moved, they offer flexibility and the ability to adjust or expand installations.
  • Fire protection – Fire-rated tiles are used on many ceiling structures, which are designed to resist fire and slow the spread down.

Learn More From Our Suspended Ceiling Experts

Hopefully, you can now answer the question “What are suspended ceilings?” and understand why you might use them.

As a system that sits below the structural roof, they create a neat and visually pleasing appearance that hides infrastructural systems, as well as providing noise reduction, additional lighting and ventilation where needed.

These ceiling systems are incredibly popular across commercial spaces and are often part of office fit-outs or refurbishments.

At Jade Aden Interiors, we have been working with these systems for over 30 years. We know that ceilings often go unnoticed and therefore, are an afterthought in any office design.

However, we know the impact these systems can make on your space, so make a point to include discussion around these in our design process.

Whether you are also thinking about adding partitioning, storage walls or a mezzanine floor, we can build suspended ceilings into the designs.

Our team know everything there is to know about these systems, so if you have further questions about them, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to learn more.

Call us on 01425 689199 or complete our online enquiry form to discuss your needs and queries with our team.