False Ceiling Materials: The Different Types and Where to Use What

Different spaces and preferences would entail the use of different false ceiling materials. We tell you what some of these essential ceiling types are and where they can be applied.
(This is a chapter of a bigger guide on false ceilings in India.)

Growing up, it was always the walls and the flooring that took precedence over how the ceiling was done up — while the floor got the best marble and the walls got plastered in rosy shades, the ceiling was mostly left bare. Then came the cornice, followed by ornate ceiling designs that slowly but drastically, changed the way we viewed decorating the house.

Today, the false ceiling, also known as drop ceiling or suspended ceiling, has gone way beyond the white paint, and has become the focal point of the home. Different materials help make a beautiful false ceiling and, here, we look at a list of them:

Gypsum False Ceiling Materials

A hydrated sulfate of calcium, gypsum is becoming a preferred choice to create a false ceiling as it is lightweight, fire-resistant, sound-insulated, and easy on the pocket. With an iron framework to support, one can hang these square boards in any pattern to conceal lights and hide electrical cables and pipelines. To finish the look, paint, laminate or even use wallpaper over these easy-to-install boards to suit the design of the room in question.

Best for: Home interiors, including living rooms, bedrooms and kitchens.

Also Read: How Much Does a False Ceiling Cost in India?

POP (Plaster of Paris) False Ceiling Materials

POP is still the material of dominance when it comes to designing the ceiling. It gives a smooth finish and one can mould it to suit any design innovation on the ceiling. This versatile material suits modern homes the best where warm cove lighting brightens the house. Use it along with another false ceiling material like wood or glass for an unmatched, contemporary appeal.

Best for: Living rooms and bedrooms.

Also Read: Gypsum Ceiling or POP Ceiling: Which One Should You Choose?

Fibre False Ceiling Materials

In large showrooms and office spaces, fibre false ceilings are high in demand. The installation process is easy and they are budget-friendly. They come factory-made in many shapes and sizes.

Best for: Offices and showrooms.

Metal False Ceiling Materials

Though galvanised iron and aluminium are industrial-looking materials, when polished and used as a false ceiling, they can be a visual treat. Needless to say, metal ceilings are the most durable with easy installation and low labour cost.

Best for: Industries, hospitals and schools.

Wooden False Ceiling Materials

Some homes want to reflect through their interiors the natural beauty and serenity outside of their four walls. This is best achieved when the ceiling has wooden beams that give the house a warm, rustic look. One can arrange these wooden panels to create various patterns on the ceiling to give it a modern appeal.

Best for: Living rooms.

Gyptone False Ceiling Materials

For an office environment, the design revolves around good acoustics and efficient air conditioning. To this effect, Gyptone ceilings (essentially perforated plasterboard) are favourable. Additionally, these are visually presentable, easy to maintain and have a long life span.

Best for: Offices.

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If you want to know more about false ceilings — costs, designs, options, etc. — do check out the following posts:

• False Ceiling Designs for Bedrooms: 9 Ideas You Will Love
• False Ceiling Designs for Drawing Rooms: 6 Unique Styles You Need to See
• Simple False Ceiling Designs for Halls: 10+ Designs to Keep It Elegant
• How Much Does a False Ceiling Cost in India?
• Gypsum Ceiling or POP Ceiling: Which One Should You Choose?