Installing Suspended Ceiling In Basement

Suspended ceilings are a great way to add a finished look to your basement and hide unsightly pipes and wires. They're also relatively easy to install, even for do-it-yourselfers.

Materials You'll Need

To install a suspended ceiling in your basement, you'll need the following materials:

Ceiling grid
Ceiling tiles
Wall molding
Suspension wires
Wire cutters
Level
Drill
Screws
Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Instructions

Once you have all of your materials, you can begin installing your suspended ceiling.

1. Install the Wall Molding

The first step is to install the wall molding around the perimeter of the basement. This will provide a frame for the ceiling grid.

Measure the length of each wall and cut the wall molding to size.
Apply a bead of construction adhesive to the back of the wall molding and press it into place against the wall.
Secure the wall molding with screws.

2. Install the Ceiling Grid

Once the wall molding is installed, you can begin installing the ceiling grid.

Determine the center of the basement and mark it on the ceiling.
Find the main joists in the ceiling and mark them with a pencil.
Cut the ceiling grid to size so that it fits between the main joists.
Hang the ceiling grid from the suspension wires, spacing them evenly apart.

3. Install the Ceiling Tiles

Once the ceiling grid is installed, you can begin installing the ceiling tiles.

Lift a ceiling tile into place and rest it on the ceiling grid.
Push the ceiling tile into place until it snaps into place.
Repeat this process until all of the ceiling tiles are installed.

4. Finishing Touches

Once the ceiling tiles are installed, you can add finishing touches such as lighting and moldings.

Install light fixtures according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Add crown molding or other decorative moldings around the perimeter of the ceiling.