My AccountWe’re breaking down one of our most frequently asked questions, “how much does a drop ceiling cost and does that include installation?”
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What is the size of your ceiling
Grab a pencil and a measuring tape, because you’re planning your new ceiling budget right now! Here’s what you’ll want to have at your fingertips to start calculating:
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- • What is the estimated square footage of your project?
Image 1: How to calculate square footage.
- • What is the estimated square footage of your project?
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- • What is the ceiling height and/or the deck height?
Image 2: Difference between ceiling height and deck height.
Tell us about your project
Grab a pencil and a measuring tape, because you’re planning your new ceiling budget right now! Here’s what you’ll want to have at your fingertips to start calculating:
-
-
- • What is the estimated square footage of your project?
Image 1: How to calculate square footage.
- • What is the estimated square footage of your project?
-
- • What is the ceiling height and/or the deck height?
Image 2: Difference between ceiling height and deck height.
What type of ceiling will you be installing?
Your price will fluctuate depending on type of material, size, color, and performance.
Mineral fiber:
A budget-friendly option that works in a variety of spaces. Mineral fiber tiles range in price and are available in different colors and styles, ensuring you find value along with the ceiling look you want.
Wood-looks:
Country Classic Planks, WOODHAVEN Planks, and Lyra PB Wood-Look drop ceilings bring warmth to any space. Wood-look ceilings look like real wood for less and are a great way to elevate your space and stay on budget.
Felt:
FELTWORKS acoustical panels are lightweight and easy to install in any ceiling application. With three different installation options, these panels have a soft visual and provide excellent noise control. They are an affordable way to achieve a new look that serves a purpose.
TECTUM:
The possibilities are endless and the range of price is wide for these modern, sustainable tiles. Durable and good for high-moisture areas, TECTUM tiles are available in a variety of high-end designs and colors.
How much will my ceiling materials cost?
Now that you have your size and materials figured out, use Kanopi’s online tools to calculate the cost of your materials.
You have an existing grid that will work with your new tiles:
• Enter the square footage or length and width of your space
• Kanopi will do the math and let you know how many cartons you’ll need to cover your space along with how much that will cost
You need to install a grid:
• Shop bundles and receive all the material components you’ll need to complete your project
• Once you’re on your product building page, enter the square footage of your project to see your total cost
• If you're purchasing your grid and tiles separately, use our grid calculator to figure out the quantities of main beams, cross tees, wall moldings, and hanger wires needed for your project
What will the installation of a drop ceiling cost me?
• How handy are you? Many ceiling projects are DIY. Kanopi has a library of how-tos and videos to walk you through your project from prep to the last step.
• Some larger commercial projects require a 3rd-party installation team. Start with our library of videos to determine if you and your team can install the ceiling. Otherwise, prepare information like your project's location, the materials you'll be using, size, layout, and type of space to receive a quote from a local contractor.
Additional costs to consider
To fully prepare financially for your ceiling investment, you’ll want to figure out if any of the below applies to your project and add them to your budget.
Waste removal & permits
• DIY’ing your basement? You’re probably good - however, when disposing of older materials it’s always best to check with your city or town rules. Waste removal could be free or you might have to rent a large container.
• If you have a larger space, are doing demolition, or reducing ceiling clearance, you’ll want to investigate getting a permit. Fines are more than the permit in most cases, so check into your local laws.
Lighting & wiring
• If your new ceiling requires moving or installing lights or updating any wiring, you’ll need to include an estimate for hourly rates by a licensed electrician into your budget.
Moving vents
• Your current HVAC system may feature heating and cooling vents that tuck behind your drop ceiling tiles. If you’re covering those or need to move them, you’ll want to consult an HVAC tech. They typically charge an hourly rate so add that to your budget.
Other preparations
• Before your new ceiling is installed, you’ll want to make sure you’ve fixed any leaks or structural damage. Whether you do it yourself or hire out, the cost will depend on the issue, the materials needed, and ceiling project scope.
Hiring a contractor
• If your ceiling project is above your skill level, get a few quotes from local contractors and don't forget about our online resources to help.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a good idea to have a drop ceiling?
The best ceiling type for the basement is typically a drop ceiling. This type of ceiling aids in sound control, improves light reflectance to brighten up the space, and allows for easy access to any wiring, duct wire, or plumbing above.
Why would someone put a drop ceiling in a house?
Drop ceilings are great for absorbing sound, creating glare free lighting scenes, and are made of sustainable materials. They also offer a clean look that can be disinfected easily.
How long does the drop ceiling last?
Drop ceiling tiles should be replaced every 10 or so years. Other significant factors letting you know it's tie include sag, discoloration, and sometimes odor.
Does a drop ceiling add value?
Yes, drop ceilings can add value to your property by giving your space a finished look and adding performance features like sound absorption. In addition, tiles create value with their features promoting healthy spaces.
What is the difference between a drop ceiling and a suspended ceiling?
They refer to the same thing: a grid that hangs from the main structure to hold ceiling tiles, panels, and planks.
Can I install a drop ceiling myself?
Yes, many Armstrong Ceiling systems are considered Contractor and DIY-friendly.
How do I install a new drop ceiling?
With straightforward instructions, minimal tools, confidence, and so many resources! At Kanopi, we've made a library of videos to walk you through each stage of your install.
Is it cheaper to drywall or install a drop ceiling?
Drywall will be less expensive for materials but typically costs more for labor, making them very comparable cost-wise. For more, visit our blog post, Drop ceiling vs drywall ceiling: Which is better?
How do I know if my ceiling needs replacing?
Drop ceiling tiles typically need to be replaced every 10 years. Other significant factors letting you know it's tie include sag, discoloration, and sometimes odor.
