What is Ceiling?

The overhead surface which covers roof construction inside the room is
known as the Ceiling. It is used to decorate the roof inside the room or
corridor.

Types of Ceiling Used in Building Construction

1. Gypsum Ceiling

Gypsum Ceiling has commonly used for new construction, it comes under the
category of false ceiling and it is hung with the help of a threaded rod of 8 mm or
10 mm diameter. We can make the desired design on different levels. Gypsum
provides a clean and glossy finish. We can get the desired painting finish by
choosing different colors. It is suitable to install different lights like a spotlight,
cove light, track light, focus light, etc.
2. Acoustical Ceiling

Acoustical Ceiling is used to control sound in a building, it is generally used

where there is a noisy environment like an auditorium, cinema halls, kitchens, etc.
We use fiber material for the acoustical to control the sound effect. Fibers can
absorb the sound and don’t transmit this sound into another medium. This
prevents the echo in the building.
3. Wire Mesh Ceiling

Wire Mesh is a very innovative and new concept. It provides a different variety in
the design. The cost of wire mesh is very low. It also prevents echo in the
building. Generally, it is used in industrial buildings. Wire mesh offers both a
stylish and functional solution for a building. The metal fabric acts as a stylish
façade for overhead ventilation and sprinkler systems and permits light to be
elegantly diffused off of its variable patterns. With a lifecycle measured in
decades, architectural mesh systems are more beautiful and serviceable
compared to other traditional ceilings systems.
Types (jointed and joint less ceilings)
Ceilings can be categorized into two main types: jointed ceilings and jointless ceilings.
These terms refer to the way the ceiling is constructed and the presence or absence of
visible joints between ceiling panels.

1. Jointed Ceilings: Jointed ceilings are constructed using individual panels or tiles
that are joined together to create a continuous ceiling surface. These panels are
usually made of materials like gypsum, mineral fiber, metal, or wood. The joints
between the panels are visible and require finishing to create a smooth and
seamless appearance. There are different types of jointed ceilings, including:
a. Suspended Ceilings: Also known as drop ceilings or false ceilings, suspended
ceilings are created by hanging individual panels from a metal grid system that is
suspended from the actual ceiling. This type of ceiling is popular in commercial
buildings as it allows easy access to the space above for maintenance or
installation of utilities.
b. Acoustic Ceilings: Acoustic ceilings are designed to absorb sound and improve
the acoustic properties of a room. They often consist of perforated panels or tiles
with an underlying sound-absorbing material. These ceilings are commonly found
in theaters, auditoriums, offices, and other spaces where noise control is
important.
c. Tiled Ceilings: Tiled ceilings use individual tiles made of materials like gypsum,
mineral fiber, or metal. These tiles are often square or rectangular in shape and
are installed in a grid pattern. Tiled ceilings offer design flexibility and are
commonly used in residential and commercial spaces.
2. Jointless Ceilings: Jointless ceilings, as the name suggests, do not have visible
joints between the ceiling panels. These ceilings are typically created using
seamless materials or techniques that result in a smooth and continuous surface.
Some common types of jointless ceilings include:
a. Plaster Ceilings: Plaster ceilings are created by applying multiple layers of
plaster over a base material like lath or drywall. The plaster is smoothed and
finished to create a seamless and elegant ceiling surface. Plaster ceilings are often
found in older buildings or spaces where a traditional and decorative look is
desired.
b. Stretch Ceilings: Stretch ceilings involve the installation of a thin, stretchable
PVC or fabric membrane that is stretched and secured to a perimeter track or
frame. This creates a smooth and seamless appearance with no visible joints.
Stretch ceilings offer various design options and can be backlit to create
interesting lighting effects.
c. Monolithic Ceilings: Monolithic ceilings are created using materials like
concrete, poured gypsum, or resin that are applied as a continuous layer over the
 ceiling surface. These materials are self-leveling and result in a seamless and
uniform finish.

Each type of ceiling has its own advantages and suitability for different applications. The
choice of ceiling type depends on factors such as aesthetics, acoustic requirements, ease
of installation, maintenance, and budget.

Basic requirements

The basic requirements of ceilings in a building include the following:

1. Structural Integrity: Ceilings must be structurally sound and able to

support their own weight as well as any additional loads, such as
lighting fixtures or suspended systems. They should be designed and
constructed in accordance with applicable building codes and standards
to ensure safety.
2. Height and Clearance: Ceilings should provide adequate height and
clearance to accommodate the activities and occupants of the space.
The minimum required ceiling height may vary depending on the
building's function, local building codes, and specific room uses (e.g.,
residential, commercial, industrial).
3. Fire Safety: Ceilings may need to meet certain fire safety requirements to
prevent the spread of fire and smoke. This can include the use of fire-
rated materials, installation of fire-resistant barriers, or adherence to
specific fire safety standards dictated by local building codes.
4. Acoustic Performance: Depending on the purpose of the space, ceilings
may be required to meet specific acoustic performance criteria. This can
involve selecting materials with sound-absorbing properties or
implementing acoustic treatments to minimize noise transmission and
improve speech intelligibility.
5. Lighting Integration: Ceilings should provide a means to accommodate
lighting fixtures and electrical wiring. They should be designed to allow
for the installation of lighting systems that meet the lighting needs of
the space efficiently and effectively.
6. Aesthetic Appeal: Ceilings contribute to the overall aesthetic and visual
appeal of a building's interior. They should be designed to complement
the architectural style and desired atmosphere of the space. The
 selection of ceiling materials, finishes, colors, and textures should be
considered to achieve the desired aesthetic effect.
7. Maintenance and Durability: Ceilings should be designed and
constructed with materials that are durable, easy to clean, and resistant
to wear and tear. They should also allow for easy access to the ceiling
cavity for maintenance or repairs of building services, such as electrical
or HVAC systems.

It is important to note that specific requirements for ceilings may vary

depending on the building type, local regulations, and intended use of the
space. Compliance with relevant building codes and standards is crucial to
ensure the ceilings meet the necessary requirements for safety, functionality,
and aesthetics.

Materials (plaster boards, solid timber, manufactured boards, expanded wire metal lathe)
Sure! Here's an explanation of the materials commonly used in ceiling construction:

1. Plasterboards: Plasterboards, also known as drywall or gypsum boards, are widely

used in ceiling construction. They consist of a core made of gypsum sandwiched
between two layers of paper. Plasterboards are lightweight, easy to install, and
offer good fire resistance and sound insulation properties. They can be cut to size
and screwed or nailed to a framework of studs or joists. Once installed, the joints
between the boards are typically filled with joint compound and taped to create a
smooth and seamless surface.
2. Solid Timber: Solid timber, typically in the form of wooden planks or boards, can
be used to create a rustic or traditional look in ceiling construction. Timber
ceilings add warmth and character to a space. The timber boards are attached
directly to the ceiling joists or fixed onto a supporting framework. Timber ceilings
may require additional treatments such as varnishing or staining to enhance their
appearance and protect them from moisture or decay.
3. Manufactured Boards: Manufactured boards, such as medium-density fiberboard
(MDF) or particleboard, are engineered wood products that can be used for
ceilings. These boards are made by compressing wood fibers or particles
together with resins or adhesives. Manufactured boards offer a smooth and
uniform surface and can be easily shaped and cut to fit specific ceiling designs.
They are commonly used for suspended or drop ceilings and can be finished with
paint, veneer, or laminate for a decorative look.
 4. Expanded Wire Metal Lath: Expanded wire metal lath is a material used in certain
types of traditional plaster ceilings. It consists of a sheet of metal mesh that is
expanded or stretched to create a diamond-shaped pattern. Wire metal lath is
attached to the ceiling framework, and then multiple layers of wet plaster are
applied and troweled over the lath. This process forms a strong and durable
plaster ceiling with a textured surface. Wire metal lath is often used in older
buildings or for achieving a specific aesthetic style.

Acoustic ceiling

Safety standards, health and environmental regulations to be put in place and observed when
selecting and constructing ceilings
When selecting and constructing ceilings, it is important to consider and adhere to
safety standards, health regulations, and environmental requirements. Here are some
key considerations:

1. Safety Standards: a. Building Codes: Follow the applicable building codes and
regulations for your specific location, which outline requirements for structural
integrity, fire safety, and occupant safety. b. Fire Safety: Ensure that the chosen
ceiling materials and construction methods meet fire resistance standards and
are in compliance with fire safety regulations. c. Electrical Safety: If ceiling-
mounted lighting fixtures or electrical components are used, ensure compliance
with electrical safety standards and regulations. d. Load-Bearing Capacity:
Consider the load-bearing capacity of the ceiling structure to ensure it can safely
support the weight of the chosen ceiling materials and any additional loads, such
as lighting fixtures.
2. Health Regulations: a. Indoor Air Quality: Select materials that meet indoor air
quality standards, such as low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, to
prevent the release of harmful substances into the indoor environment. b.
Asbestos and Hazardous Materials: Be aware of any regulations regarding the
presence and handling of asbestos or other hazardous materials commonly
found in older buildings. Proper testing and remediation procedures should be
followed if required. c. Mold and Moisture Resistance: Choose materials that are
resistant to moisture and mold growth to ensure a healthy indoor environment
and prevent potential health issues.
3. Environmental Regulations: a. Sustainable Materials: Consider using
environmentally friendly and sustainable materials, such as recycled content,
renewable resources, or materials with low environmental impact, to minimize the
ecological footprint of the ceiling construction. b. Energy Efficiency: If the ceiling
design affects the energy efficiency of the building, consider incorporating
features like insulation to reduce energy consumption and meet energy efficiency
regulations. c. Waste Management: Implement proper waste management
practices during construction to minimize waste generation, recycle materials
when possible, and dispose of construction debris responsibly.