A false ceiling or a suspended ceiling serves two main purposes. Firstly, it adds beauty and an aesthetic uplift. Approaching it from a functional point of view, it allows you to cover up the HVAC, wiring, and piping systems, install recessed lighting, and lower the ceiling height, creating a more compact space for air conditioning systems. False ceilings give your hall a clean look and reduce long-term energy costs. While we appreciate the advantages, most homeowners are unsure what to look for in the material or design when installing a perfect false ceiling. Here is a handy guide that will help pick the perfect false ceiling design for the hall.
Picking the right material for false ceilings
Some of the most common materials used in false ceilings that you may want to pick from include –
- Plaster of Paris (POP) - POP is by far the most common material for false ceilings. It is inexpensive, can be moulded into different shapes, is durable, and offers great insulation.
- Wood, particle board, plywood - While wood is more environment-friendly and attractive, it can be expensive and susceptible to wear and tear. It is ideally combined with ply or other particle boards for better support.
- PVC - PVC is inexpensive and ideal for places with high humidity and ambient moisture. It is also very easy to install. PVC ceilings are ideal for bathrooms, storage spaces, and corridors but may not be suitable for living rooms, bedrooms or kitchens.
- Gypsum – The main ingredient of POP is gypsum, but POP ceilings are not the same as gypsum board ceilings. Gypsum board ceilings are very affordable and easy to install. They may be difficult to install on curved surfaces, though.
- Fabric or cloth – Fabric can be used to install false ceilings that match the design and theme of the upholstery and the other décor items. It is also inexpensive and affordable, but fabric ceilings may not be as sturdy or durable as the other materials.
- Mineral fibre - Mineral fibre ceilings are environment and budget-friendly. They are also strong and lasting. Mineral fibre, however, should be combined with other materials like POP for elegance and aesthetics.
- Glass – Glass ceilings are elegant and sophisticated, but they are also expensive. Toughened glass and heat-resistant glass can add to the interior decor budget.
- Metal – Aluminium can be used for framing false ceilings, and wrought metal designs can be used to add depth and dimension. These may be expensive, though.
Ways to Select False Ceiling Designs for the Hall
- Beauty and aesthetic appeal – The first factor to consider is the aesthetic appeal of the design. The hall is often an extension of the living room or the space where you host friends and loved ones. A uniquely designed false ceiling can add character to the hall.
- Energy efficiency and insulation - One of the most common reasons homeowners install false ceilings is to provide insulation and reduce the space for effective air conditioning. In such cases, you must consider the energy efficiency and insulative properties of the material. The false ceiling design for the hall will also depend on these considerations.
- Climatic requirements - Interior designers highly recommend customising your decor and designs to meet the natural climatic conditions of your location. In coastal cities like Mumbai or Chennai, you may need to factor in moisture resistance. A layered false ceiling design, for example, is a great choice for these places.
- Budget – Consider both installation and maintenance costs for your hall false ceiling. Installing a wood and glass ceiling may seem like a good design choice, but the long-term maintenance and repair costs may tip the budget. A POP ceiling with a similar design may be a better alternative in this case.
- Other needs – It is important to avoid popular designs and trends and consider the specific requirements of your home. For example, if you or your family members hold music jam sessions at home, it may be a good idea to opt for a false ceiling design with suitable acoustics. Or you may be keen on a low carbon footprint ceiling. Your needs as a homeowner should be a good guide for making the right design choices.
Installing a false ceiling requires consideration of these factors and also is an integral part of the interior décor. It is a good idea to enlist the help of a professional interior decorator when choosing the right material and design.