Kitchen Remodeling Ideas

Tacoma Kitchen Remodeling offers a chance to add new features that meet your family’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a stylish design or upgrades like recessed lighting and energy-efficient appliances, the right upgrades can improve livability and boost resale value.

Kitchen Remodeling

Start by establishing your goals and budget for the project. Remember to set aside contingency money for surprises that can’t be planned, such as removing load-bearing walls or plumbing and electrical upgrades.

Cabinets are at the heart of every kitchen. They provide the structure and storage space for everything from food to utensils. They also offer a great opportunity to define your personal style and create a room that is comfortable, efficient and easy to work in.

A new cabinetry design can also add a significant amount of value to your home and is one of the few remodeling projects that typically offers a high return on investment at resale. However, it is important not to go overboard with your cabinet and countertop selections to avoid being overwhelmed by the costs of a full-scale renovation that exceeds what your home’s market can support.

When selecting a cabinet material, consider your kitchen’s traffic patterns and functionality. Durability is an important factor when comparing cabinets to other materials, particularly in a kitchen where moisture and heat are prevalent. Wood cabinetry offers natural, traditional beauty with the added benefit of being resistant to moisture and stains. Laminate, on the other hand, can give you an almost unlimited number of color, pattern, and design options with less up-front cost.

While cabinet finishes are a personal choice, most homeowners choose a lighter color for upper cabinets and a darker finish for lower cabinetry to complement the floor and counters. White cabinets are a popular option that can instantly brighten up the room. For a more dramatic effect, dark stain or paint can also add visual depth to the room.

If you’re going to install new appliances during your kitchen remodel, plan ahead to ensure that they are delivered before you begin tearing down existing cabinets. It’s best to order appliances well in advance, especially if they are custom sizes and colors, says Hillery.

Countertops

Countertops are a kitchen’s focal point and can help tie the look of your entire space together. Whether you prefer light, dark or somewhere in between, you’ll find an array of natural and manufactured options to choose from.

Marble and granite countertops continue to be popular choices for many homeowners, thanks in part to their classic beauty and durability. However, these natural materials can be susceptible to cracking, chipping and staining. If you’re concerned about these issues, quartz may be a better option for your new countertops. Quartz countertops are durable and offer a wide variety of colors and patterns to suit your taste.

If you’re interested in a more unique look, consider river rock countertops. These beautiful surfaces consist of small, polished river rocks suspended in acrylic or cement and can be made into a variety of shapes and styles. This countertop material is also easy to maintain and withstands heat damage.

Stainless steel countertops are another stylish option for modern kitchens. They can be cleaned easily with mild soap and water and are nonporous, making them resistant to bacteria. However, this material shows fingerprints and can be scratched, so it’s not ideal for homes with children.

If you’re not able to save up for your countertop remodel, consider a home equity line of credit (HELOC). These loans use your existing home equity as collateral and typically come with low interest rates. However, you’ll need to have enough home equity to qualify and the right amount of cash on hand to cover any closing expenses. Be careful to plan a sound repayment schedule so you can pay off the debt in a timely manner.

Flooring

The kitchen is a semi-moist area where steam, spills, and high foot traffic can cause wear and tear on floors. To combat these conditions, a durable material is key. Tile, carpet, hardwood and composite laminate boards are popular choices. Each offers different style and color options, as well as pricing that can affect your overall project costs.

Kitchen cabinets are another major expense. Even with trends for open shelving and upper cabinet alternatives, cabinets still provide essential storage for food and supplies. Work with your contractor to design cabinets that meet your space and budget goals.

In many cases, you’ll need to add new plumbing or electrical lines as part of a remodel, which can increase the total cost of the project. Depending on your remodel plan and where these lines are located, you may need to change your floor plans. These alterations can be costly and require a significant amount of time to complete.

Flooring needs to be durable enough for the wear and tear of a busy kitchen, but also fit your aesthetic and design goals. Wood can create a warm, inviting look, while concrete and tiles can offer a sleek and contemporary vibe. Alternatively, you can opt for a modern look with patterned or geometric-shaped tile.

If you’re on a tight budget, your contractor may suggest working with subcontractors to perform certain parts of the remodel, such as plumbers, electricians and flooring pros. This can significantly reduce your costs by allowing you to hire the contractors of your choice and keep their overhead low. However, it’s important to understand that working with subcontractors can increase your project timeline and requires a large amount of oversight on your end.

Appliances

Your kitchen appliances play an important role in your cooking and eating experience. During your remodel, consider replacing old appliances with newer models that have better energy efficiency and smart features to make food prep and cleanup easier and more fun.

Be sure to select appliances that are compatible with your home’s style, as well as your budget. You can often save money by choosing appliance finishes and sizes that are standard, rather than custom options. If you are planning to sell your home in the future, remember that overly customized kitchen elements can limit your potential buyer pool.

Creating a comprehensive wish list and researching appliance features before you shop will ensure that your kitchen remodel results in the kitchen of your dreams. Your designer or trade professional can help you match your needs and wants to available options.

For example, if you cook a lot, your designer may recommend a double oven to accommodate larger batches of food and reduce cooking time. If you entertain, they might suggest a warming drawer or ice maker to streamline the serving process. And if you are concerned about air quality, a hood with ventilation will keep smoke and odors at bay.

It is also a good idea to plan for unexpected expenses during your remodel. Setting aside a cash reserve or getting preapproved for a line of credit will allow you to cover costs when they arise. These funds can come in handy when you are forced to replace a broken appliance or if you discover that your renovation requires more extensive work than originally planned. This will protect your bottom line and keep your project on track.

Lighting

Homeowners are looking for ways to improve the functionality of their homes. One of the most popular renovations is a kitchen remodel. A kitchen remodeling project can increase the value of a property and enhance its aesthetic appeal. It can also save homeowners money on energy bills and reduce the need for costly repairs.

During a kitchen remodeling project, homeowners are often concerned with the color scheme and the look of new cabinets, countertops, flooring, and appliances. However, they often overlook the importance of a well-designed lighting system. A poorly lit kitchen can be uninviting and difficult to work in. It can also lead to safety concerns by making it difficult to see food prep areas and other kitchen tasks.

A successful lighting design should include a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting. This ensures that all areas of the kitchen are well-lit and allows you to adjust the ambiance depending on your activity or mood. Pendant lights are a popular option for kitchens because they can be installed in a variety of styles and finishes to match any design theme. Decorative chandeliers are another way to add a focal point that will make your kitchen stand out.

Under cabinet lighting is a great choice for kitchens because it can function as task and accent lighting. It is perfect for illuminating countertops and backsplashes, and it can be adjusted with a dimmer switch to create a warm and welcoming ambiance.

Homeowners are embracing the idea of incorporating artwork into their kitchen designs, and a well-placed lighting fixture can help to highlight these pieces. Whitehead suggests using recessed, adjustable fixtures that can be used to illuminate canvasses and framed artwork, such as photographs.

The Benefits of Metal Roofing

When properly maintained, a metal roof will last for decades. It can also add value to your home and reduce energy costs.

Roofing

Choose from galvanized steel, stainless steel, and even alloys that combine aluminum and zinc for a durable and corrosion-resistant option. Make sure to repair rust spots and regularly clean the gutters and drains.

Metal roofs can last longer than asphalt shingles and create a more energy-efficient home due to fuller shielding from the elements. Moreover, they can be installed as a DIY project. However, it is important to remember that you will need to be able to work on the roof itself and you may need to purchase additional materials for the job such as underlayment and roofing screws. You will also need to be sure that you follow local laws regarding building permits for home renovation projects.

To install your new metal roof, first lay down a layer of underlayment. This is especially important if you will be adding a metal roof over an existing one. This material is needed to protect your roof from water and to help prevent rust. You can find underlayment at any hardware store. If you are unsure of what type to purchase, consult with your local building inspector for specifics.

Next, begin removing the old shingle roof from your home or building. Be sure to wear safety goggles and a hard hat for protection. It is also a good idea to remove any branches or trees that hang over the roof.

A metal roof is a smart choice if you live in an area where wildfires are a risk. It reflects the sun’s heat, which will keep your house or building cool. It is also very strong and fire-resistant, so you will not have to worry about a wildfire burning your home or business down.

Finally, metal roofs are very easy to maintain. They are not prone to mildew, moss or fungus like shingle roofs. Regular inspections and cleaning will help to keep the roof in great condition. Also, be sure to clean out the gutters to prevent clogging and leaking.

Durable

Many homeowners choose metal roofing because of its beauty, durability and energy efficiency. It can withstand high winds and fires and lasts for decades without the need for repairs or replacement. It also improves home resale value and saves energy costs, making it a cost-effective investment.

A durable metal roof reflects sunlight rather than absorbs it, reducing cooling costs by up to 25%. Special paints are available that can block UV rays, which helps keep the house cool in summer. It is also resistant to moss, mildew and termite infestations. It can withstand salty sea air and extreme temperatures, and is one of the most sustainable roofing materials as it contains up to 99% recycled aluminum. It is also more quiet than other roofing materials, so you won’t have to worry about loud rain and hailstorms.

Because metal is so durable, it can last for 2 to 3 times longer than shingles. This means that you will only need to replace it two or three times over the lifespan of the roof. This is a big saving on installation and repair fees.

However, the longevity of a metal roof comes with some drawbacks. The initial expense is higher than a shingle roof. The cost can also be increased by the need to reinforce structural supports to handle the additional weight of a metal roof. Expansion and contraction of the roof can also cause rusting and dislodging of fasteners.

Some of the best types of metal roofs include copper, zinc and galvanized steel. They are all durable and long-lasting, but they differ in terms of appearance, price and how they respond to inclement weather. For example, copper develops a patina that some people like, while others find it unsightly.

Energy-Efficient

Metal roofing is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking to make their homes and buildings more energy efficient. Its reflective surface and low thermal emittance prevents heat from being absorbed inside the building, which in turn reduces your energy costs.

Unlike traditional shingle roofs, which often need to be replaced due to wear and tear, a metal roof is long-lasting and requires little maintenance. It also keeps out rain and snow, which means your home or business will stay warm and dry.

A metal roof is also able to significantly lower your cooling costs during the summer. This is because it reflects the light and heat from the sun, which helps keep your interior at a comfortable temperature without having to crank up the air conditioning.

In addition, a metal roof will save you money on installation costs as well. That’s because it can be installed over an existing shingle roof, eliminating the need for expensive removal and disposal of the old roofing materials.

Most residential and commercial metal roofing is fabricated from galvanized steel or galvalume, a mixture of aluminum and zinc. The material is produced in giant rolls at a manufacturing plant and then coated before being formed into panels for use on buildings or homes. It can be fastened to the structure using hidden or exposed fasteners.

When metal roofs are exposed to extreme heat, they will expand in size. This can place a strain on the metal roof’s seams, fasteners, and other components. In some cases, this expansion can result in leaks in the attic or other parts of the structure. To avoid this issue, choose a roofing product that uses hidden fasteners, such as a standing seam system.

Resistant to Corrosion

Metal roofs are incredibly durable, long-lasting and resistant to corrosion. They can withstand hurricane-force winds and can endure exposure to sun, wind, rain and other harsh weather conditions without rusting or cracking. They also don’t rot or attract mildew, and they aren’t susceptible to termite infestation or rodent damage. Plus, they can boost your home’s resale value and are one of the best fire-resistant roofing materials available.

Corrosion is a naturally occurring process that occurs when iron comes in contact with oxygen and moisture, which causes the metal to weaken. However, there are steps you can take to extend the life of your metal roof. These include regularly inspecting your roof and cleaning it using a non-abrasive cleaner recommended by the manufacturer. You should also make sure your gutters are functioning properly to avoid water build-up and prevent pooling that could cause corrosion.

There are many different metal options to choose from when selecting a new roof, including stainless steel, galvanized and galvalume steels, copper, aluminum, zinc and tin. Each type of metal has its own unique advantages, so it’s important to speak with a professional about which option is best for you and your needs.

A metal roof can last for decades, and it is a great investment in your property. In addition, it can help you save money on cooling bills because it reflects the sun’s heat rather than absorbing it like asphalt shingles. It can also improve your home’s resale appeal and offer peace of mind knowing that the metal roof you installed is durable and long-lasting. For more information about choosing the right metal roof for your home, contact us today.

Easy to Maintain

Metal roofs are not only durable and long-lasting, but they’re also relatively low-maintenance compared to other roofing materials. They do not rot or mildew and don’t have any problems with rodents or termites. With that being said, it’s still important to perform regular maintenance tasks and have your roof inspected by a professional on a yearly basis to ensure that nothing is wrong.

Depending on the type of metal roof you have, it may require different levels of maintenance. For example, a galvanized metal roof requires less maintenance than a painted or coated roof. A galvanized roof can withstand a much heavier amount of snow and hail.

When it comes to cleaning your metal roof, a good rule of thumb is to use a low-pressure wash with water and avoid using chemicals that might damage the paint. For stubborn spots, a mild detergent such as laundry soap or household cleaner will do the trick.

It is also a good idea to trim back overhanging tree limbs, which can scratch and dislodge the fasteners that hold your roof in place. If left unattended, this can lead to leak zones and early degradation.

For screw-down metal roofs, it is a good idea to have the fasteners and rivets checked frequently for looseness and wear. This is because these parts are exposed and can experience thermal expansion and contraction, which could cause them to corrode and create holes in your metal roof. This is especially true for gasket head fasteners. In addition, you should make sure that the metal panels and seams are tightly sealed and undamaged. If any issues are found, it is important to get them fixed immediately to prevent further damage and costly repairs down the road.

Disaster Cleanup Tips

Natural disasters such as fires, hurricanes, and landslides leave behind wreckage that requires extensive clean-up. This guide offers several tips to make the task more efficient and effective for disaster cleanup crews.

Disaster Cleanup

Safety must come first. Before entering a home or business, check for downed power lines, smoldering insulation, washed out roads and dead animals. Visit https://www.allproutah.com to learn more.

Whether they’re caused by fires, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes or winter storms, natural disasters cause a lot of damage and leave behind debris. Cleanup efforts expose workers to a variety of hazards including falling objects, downed electrical power lines, mold, contaminated water and carbon monoxide.

The best way to prevent these hazards is by having a comprehensive waste removal and recycling program in place. It will not only make the cleanup process quicker and safer for everyone involved, but it will also help to get your building back up and running faster.

Debris management is an important part of any disaster clean-up plan, and it should include a strategy for debris collection, temporary storage and staging areas, recycling, hazardous waste identification and handling, and administration. All of these steps are necessary to ensure a safe and efficient cleanup operation.

Many communities have difficulty implementing a debris management plan during and immediately following a disaster. The best solution is to use existing facilities, which will have pre-existing permits and disposal contracts in place. This will make the plan easier to implement, and it will be much more cost effective than creating a new facility or starting from scratch.

It is critical to check with local officials before placing debris for collection. They will tell you where and when pickups will be conducted. In addition, it’s essential to avoid blocking roadways with debris and not to put anything in the street that could obstruct traffic. This includes tarps, wood, metal and other materials.

If a large amount of debris is produced during construction, it can be helpful to hire a trash removal service. This will allow the crews to work without having to worry about picking up and moving debris. It’s also a good idea to have a waste disposal company on call, in case of an emergency. These companies can take care of a wide variety of waste material, including drywall, carpet and more. They can even dispose of hazardous waste, such as oily rags or other chemicals that may have been leaking. This will reduce the risk of fires, explosions and other hazardous conditions.

Chemical Disposal

Chemical waste refers to any excess, unused or unwanted chemicals. These can be liquid, solid or gaseous. Chemical wastes are disposed of through a process of reclamation, destruction or treatment and are generally regulated differently than standard hazardous wastes. These requirements are set out by federal and state laws. It is the responsibility of Principal Investigators and Department Managers to make sure that all personnel in their laboratories are properly trained in handling, storing and disposing of chemical waste. It is also their responsibility to assure that weekly inspections of all chemical waste accumulation areas are conducted. These are the best means to ensure that laboratory employees understand proper hazardous waste procedures and protocols.

It is critical that all chemical containers be labeled correctly and completely. Failure to do so can result in violations of federal and state regulations and expensive fines for the University. Unknown/unlabeled containers are one of the most common problems encountered during chemical waste removal. This type of waste is extremely difficult and costly to dispose of.

All container lids should be securely tightened and clearly marked with the chemical name. This information must be written in the top right corner of each container. The molecular structure and formula should be written out, not abbreviated. In addition, a hazard warning should be included on the container. This identifies the potential hazards associated with the waste and should include the phrase “may cause injury to the skin, eyes or respiratory system.”

If there has been a chemical spill it is important that the waste be collected quickly to prevent the spread of contamination. It is also recommended that the spill be cleaned with an appropriate degreaser such as Trichloroethane, followed by a general cleaning and rinse with water. After the cleanup, all contaminated materials, protective equipment and remote handling tongs should be put into an appropriately labeled chemical waste bag for disposal.

Secure the Scene

Depending on the location of a disaster site and the type of natural calamity, the environment can pose many different hazards to those working during disaster clean-up. Whether it’s fire and smoke from a house explosion or water damage due to flooding, it is critical for anyone involved in disaster cleanup to be aware of the potential risks and take precautionary measures to ensure their safety.

During disaster clean-up, it is essential that all evidence is secured and protected. This may involve placing tarps over the site or other measures that protect important items. The physical evidence may need to be secured as well as the chain of events and vital information such as witness accounts or photographs.

People working on the scene of a disaster should wear appropriate clothing that is tailored to the conditions they are facing. For example, flood water can carry harmful bacteria and chemicals, so protective workwear should be worn. If someone is working outside, they should be mindful of washed out roads, smoldering insulation and dead animals. It is also important to check that the building is safe for entry.

As disasters like floods, hurricanes and landslides cause damage to homes and businesses across the country, volunteers are rushing to help alleviate the pain that the victims face. However, disaster clean-up is far from the normal cleaning chores that we are used to and it can be dangerous for those who do not follow the proper safety precautions. These safety tips from the CDC will help reduce injuries and even save lives as people work to clean up after these natural catastrophes.

Clean the Building

Damage caused by floods, fires, hurricanes and tornadoes or mudslides can be costly and traumatic for both homeowners and business owners. In the immediate aftermath of these natural calamities, primary damage control, estimates and clean-up must be done quickly, professionally and correctly.

Disaster cleanup is far different from your average house cleaning and presents a host of new safety issues. As a result, those involved in disaster clean-up face a number of dangerous situations including but not limited to: contaminated water, downed power lines, carbon monoxide, hazardous spills, musculoskeletal hazards, tree-trimming, working at height, confined spaces, chemical exposure and emotional stress.

The first step is to assess the situation and make sure that it is safe for clean-up workers to enter the property. This means identifying all possible hazards and taking steps to mitigate them. Whether this is clearing a fallen power line or inspecting the structure for structural integrity, it is important that all of the hazards are identified before any work begins.

After the building is deemed safe for clean-up, any items that have been exposed to contaminated water or other chemicals should be disposed of immediately. This includes perishables, household cleaners, medicine and anything else that might be contaminated. If an item can’t be discarded, it should be disinfected with hot water and laundry or dish detergent.

Any items that have been affected by smoke should also be thrown away, even those that don’t appear to be damaged. Smoke stains are often impossible to remove and can pose a health risk for those that may come into contact with them. In addition, it is important that any materials that are wet are dried as soon as possible to prevent the formation of mold and other harmful microorganisms. This can be achieved by air drying the materials or pumping out the water and then using industrial dryers.

The Most Common Residential Ceiling Types

Ceilings Perth is the overhead interior surface that marks the upper limit of a room and conceals the underside of the floor or roof structure above. Ceilings are often decorated, with frescoes and artwork appearing on them, particularly in religious buildings.

To calculate the area of a ceiling, measure the length and width of the room. If the room has areas that jut in or out of the basic rectangle, multiply the products of those measurements to find the square footage.

The ceiling is often overlooked, but it plays a vital role in the overall aesthetic and functionality of your home. A wide range of residential ceiling types exist, with options for almost every room and architecture style. From sleek and modern designs like coffered and tray to traditional options such as vaulted and cathedral, these ceiling types can transform your space and elevate any interior design.

A vaulted ceiling is a classic choice for high rooms and hallways, creating a sense of grandeur that will set any interior design apart. Inspired by traditional church design, this ceiling type features symmetrical steep slopes that connect at the center of the room to create an airy space with old-world charm. The only drawback is that the sloping sides can make it difficult to access electrical points or clear cobwebs.

With a ceiling that resembles an inverted tray, this ceiling design can be moulded or recessed, with hidden strip lights casting a soft glow on the ceiling. Tray ceilings can be crafted from wood, plaster of Paris (POP), or gypsum board and are great for adding height to a room and making it feel spacious.

Another popular option for a ceiling is the coved ceiling, which consists of curved sections that form a rounded surface around the room’s perimeter. These sections are typically fixed to the walls and then covered with a smooth or textured finish. One of the more dramatic coved ceilings uses wood to create a beautiful, rustic look, although this option isn’t for everyone because it can be expensive and difficult to maintain and repair.

Conventional ceilings are simple and straightforward, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have their own unique appeal. They can be painted or textured in a variety of styles, from flat paint for a minimalistic look to orange peel or knockdown textures for a more traditional appearance. Some homeowners even opt for shiplap, which is more commonly known as wall siding, to add a contemporary and rustic touch to their homes.

If you’re going for a more industrial look, an exposed ceiling can be the perfect fit. This ceiling design leaves the wires, ducts and other services exposed to the room, giving it a raw and rustic feel that many homeowners love.

Styles

From simple to sophisticated, there is a ceiling style for every home. Although often overlooked, this design feature influences the overall aesthetic of a space. When it comes to building your dream home or renovating an existing house, the ceiling is a unique opportunity for you to show off your personal style and add visual interest. From a traditional design to a more contemporary approach, explore the nine most common ceiling styles below to determine which is the best fit for your home.

Flat and relatively cheap to install, conventional ceilings are the most popular choice for new homes. This style offers a simple look and can be easily modified through the use of molding or paint color. However, it is not as visually interesting as other ceiling options.

A coffered ceiling is a more formal option that features sunken panels throughout the room. The resulting grid-like pattern can be enhanced with decorative molding for a truly awe-inspiring design. This ceiling style is most commonly seen in libraries or dining rooms and can be a great way to tie together the architectural styles of your home.

A vaulted or domed ceiling is a dramatic design option that creates an inverted V shape in the space. They can be adorned with wooden beams that are either the load-bearing structural elements of the home or decorative ones installed over them. Whether used in living rooms or bedrooms, this ceiling can make your home feel larger and more spacious.

Another dramatic ceiling design, a barrel vaulted ceiling creates a curved, upward slope in the space. They can be adorned in wooden or metal beams and can create a warm and cozy atmosphere.

A shed ceiling is a more casual approach that slants towards one side of the room. It can be adorned with a variety of textures, such as flat or smooth for a minimalist approach and orange peel, skip trowel, and knockdown for subtle texture. Shed ceilings can work well in farmhouse-style homes or even as a design accent for weekend cottages.

A drop ceiling is a type of suspended ceiling that works well in commercial buildings, but it can also be used in residential spaces. This ceiling type “drops” from your primary ceiling and can conceal ductwork, wires, and pipes. While it is not as easy to modify as other ceiling types, a drop ceiling can be a good solution for a limited budget.

Materials

The material used to create ceilings is important because it contributes to the overall look and feel of a space. It can also serve functional purposes, such as preventing fire from spreading or hiding pipework. The ceiling is often made of gypsum board, but it can also be made from wood, vinyl or fibre-cement.

Another popular ceiling material is metal, which can add a sleek and modern design to any room. This material is also easy to clean and durable. It is available in a variety of different finishes, including galvanized steel and aluminum. These ceilings are easy to install, and they require little maintenance.

Fiber false ceilings are also made from various materials, such as recycled papers, perlite, vegetable fibers, mineral wool, tar, and asphalt. They are usually compressed and bonded using a binding agent. They are popular in commercial buildings, and they provide excellent sound insulation and heat resistance.

Gypsum boards are commonly used as ceilings because they are fire-resistant and acoustic insulators. They are available in a range of thicknesses, and they can be designed to meet specific building requirements. These ceilings can be installed with a grid or without one, and they are easy to install.

Wooden plank ceilings are another popular choice for homeowners because they provide a warm and natural ambiance. They can be painted or stained to match any décor. They are also a good choice for those who want to reduce their energy bills, as they are a natural insulator. These ceilings are also easy to maintain, but they can be more difficult to paint than other types of ceilings.

Corrugated iron ceilings are a cheap and durable option for home owners. They are easily installed on a wood skeleton and can be covered in a variety of materials. They are a good choice for people who want a rustic and nature-inspired look, but they should be treated with heat-resistant paint and insulation.

Glass ceilings are another option for those who want to add a stylish touch to their home. These ceilings are a great way to enhance natural lighting and can make a room appear larger. They are easy to clean and can be decorated with a variety of patterns and colors.

Installation

The ceiling is a space above the room that allows services such as pipework and ducting to pass through, while insulation and fireproofing can be placed in this area. This ceiling can also play a part in reducing fire hazard, so it is important to consider the type of material used and how it can be made fire resistant.

There are several ways to install a ceiling, depending on the design you want and how easy it will be to access existing services. Drop ceilings, which use cardboard panels that are suspended from aluminum struts, make it easier to repair pipes and wiring as they are less likely to crack or tear, but can be more expensive than other types of installation.

Vaulted ceilings can be created by adding wood beams — either the house’s real ones or decorative versions that are installed over them. This dramatic style can add a lot of value to your home, and it can allow for tall windows or skylights that let in lots of natural light.

If you are installing a ceiling, it’s a good idea to have the room tested for asbestos before beginning work. Also, have the joists and any wires tested for safety. This is a job best left to a professional.

Start by marking the location of the ceiling joists in the ceiling with an electronic stud finder and a pencil. You will need to do this on two opposite walls of the room. Then, locate the center of each joist by using a framing square or circular saw to cut a straight line across the ceiling surface where you have marked.

Before setting the Main Runners, place a couple of full tiles in the grid to ensure they are level with the perimeter trim already mounted. This will be easier to do once you have set the perimeter Cross Tees, which should rest on Edge Trim/Wall Angle.

Set the Main Runners at 600mm centres, or for larger tiles, 1200mm centres. When you have done this, you can attach the Edge Trim to the main runners.