Finishing the ceiling with acoustic tiles

If you choose acoustic tiles to finish your basement ceiling, you'll be able to a access plumbing and electrical wiring without having to demolish parts of the ceiling. Ceiling tiles are available in 24 in. × 48 in. (609 mm × 1,218 mm) or 24 in. × 24 in. (609 mm × 609 mm). The traditional suspension system is made up of main T's that run perpendicular to the ceiling joists and cross T's that run across the main T's, parallel to the joists. The system hangs from wires attached to the joists by means of eyelets. L-shaped angle mould attach to the wall support the tiles around the perimeter of the room.
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1. Take the measurements
2. Install the angle mould
3. Install the main T's
4. Insert the cross T's
5. Install light fixtures
6. Call a qualified electrician

1. Take the measurements

Measure the ceiling area you wish to cover and draw a scale plan on graph paper, keeping in mind the size of the tiles you have selected. A 24 in. × 24 in. (609 mm × 609 mm) tile could translate into one square on your paper, while a 24 in. × 48 in. (609 mm × 1218 mm) tile could translate into two squares. You'll require a sharp utility knife to cut the tiles along the wall.

1.1 

Determine the height of the ceiling and mark if off with a chalk-line along the walls.

1.2 

Attach a spirit level to the chalk-line to ensure the suspension system will be level.

2. Install the angle mould

Install the angle mould along the line you have traced on the wall. Cut with metal shears or a hack saw. Interior corners can be cut square while exterior corners should be cut at 45° for better support.

2.1 

Using a string, draw lines across the joists, linking the screw holes on the wall-mounted L-shaped supports on either side of the room. That will tell you where to find the eyelets used to hang the main T.

2.2 

Attach a mason's strings (nylon) under the wall-mounted rail supports so as to clearly indicate where secondary rail supports will be positioned. This will make it easier to get a level reading to adjust the rail support suspension wires.
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