Ceilings and lighting
A ceiling that works with what is above it
The pipes, ducts and wires in the joists decide the ceiling. We choose it with you at the test, with a look at what is up there.
A basement ceiling has to leave a way to a shutoff valve, a cleanout or a junction box. A drywall ceiling looks best, and a drop ceiling is easiest to open. Many basements get both: drywall in the main room and panels over the utility area.
What a ceiling and lighting include
Drywall on a flat grid of furring, where height allows
A drop ceiling with panels, where you need access
Access doors for valves, cleanouts and boxes, marked on the plan
Recessed lights spaced to the room, on dimmers where you want them
Sound insulation in the joists, when a bedroom or a theater is above or below
The price
What moves the price of a ceiling
Height, access and the number of lights.
Drywall or drop
Drywall costs more than a drop ceiling and hides more.
What is up there
A trunk duct or a drain pipe means boxing in.
Height
Below 7 feet 6 inches, we keep the joists open and paint them.
The lights
Each recessed light is a hole, a can and a wire.
Sound
Sound insulation adds a layer and a day.
Access
Every valve and box needs a way in.
The schedule
How a ceiling goes
Ceilings come after the rough-in and before the walls are finished.
- 01Weeks 3 to 4
Step 1: Rough-in
Wires and pipes run, and the inspector looks.
- 02Weeks 5 to 6
Step 2: Hang and tape
Drywall or grid goes up, taped and sanded.
- 03Weeks 7 to 8
Step 3: Light
Fixtures go in, then paint and a final check.
Permits
Permits for ceilings and lights
New lights and wiring are part of the electrical permit for the finish, and a licensed electrician does the work. The inspector checks the rough-in before the ceiling is closed.
Questions
Before you book
Can I have a drywall ceiling and still reach the valves?
Yes, with an access door, painted to match the ceiling.
How many lights do I need?
A typical room needs one for every 25 to 30 square feet. We lay them out at the visit and show you.
Are LEDs worth it in a basement?
Yes. They run cool and last for years. We choose a warm color for rooms and a cooler one for a workshop.
Ceiling questions?
Text a photo of the joists and we will tell you what we see.