Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
Installing a suspended ceiling is a basic DIY project requiring few tools and techniques.
Installing a suspended ceiling is a fairly easy do-it-yourself project. Here’s how:
1. Start by calculating the height the ceiling will be. The minimum should be 7 feet, 6 inches, and it should also be 3 inches below any plumbing and 5 inches below any lighting. Once you have figured out the ceiling level, snap a chalk line to mark it. Then install the track supports so that they just cover the line.
2. Using tin snips or a hacksaw, cut the main tees to length. Place them on the track supports and hang them from the joists with #12 wire attached to eye screws inserted every 4 feet.
3. Insert the tabs of the 4-foot cross tees into the slots of the main tees and then snap them into place.
4. Lower the solid panels and any fluorescent lighting panels you are installing gently into place. Use a utility knife to cut border panels to fit. Before handling the panels, wash your hands well because smudges cannot be easily removed.
