The ultimate guide to suspended ceiling grids

Suspended ceiling grids are an essential component in modern architecture, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits across various settings. Whether you're designing a commercial office, a school, or a residential space, understanding the different types of suspended ceiling grids and their applications can help you make informed decisions. In this guide, Zentia explores the world of suspended ceiling grids, focusing on their types, designs, sizes, components, and installation process.

What Is a Suspended Ceiling Grid?

A suspended ceiling grid is a network of metal profiles that support ceiling tiles or panels. These grids are suspended from the structural soffit above and create a secondary false ceiling that ceiling that hides electrical cables, ductwork, and other services while still providing easy access for maintenance.

Suspended ceiling grids offer several advantages:

• Aesthetic Appeal: They create a clean, uniform appearance and can be customised with different tile designs.
• Sound Absorption: The strong T grid profiles can support a multitude of different ceiling tiles to achieve the required acoustic performance for the space.
• Ease of Access: The grid design and layout usually means any tile can be removed to gain access to the ceiling void. Where larger areas are needed for periodic access, it is even possible to remove parts of the grid, then reinstate them after the work is completed.
• Versatility: Suspended ceiling grids can be used in various settings, including commercial spaces, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and even residential properties.

Types and Designs of Suspended Ceiling Grids

Exposed Grid Systems

Exposed grid suspended ceilings are the most common type, where the grid system is visible between the tiles. This design is popular due to its straightforward installation and cost-effectiveness.

• Simplicity: The exposed grid system features a visible T-bar that supports the tiles, offering a clean, linear appearance.
• Versatility: This design can accommodate a wide range of ceiling tiles, allowing for flexibility in design.
• Ease of Installation: It’s easy to install, making it a quick, cost-effective option

Semi-Concealed Grid Systems

Semi-concealed grid systems strike a balance between exposed and concealed designs. The grid is partially hidden by the ceiling tiles, offering a sleek look without fully covering the grid.

• Modern Appeal: Semi-concealed grids provide a more refined look than fully exposed systems while still being easier to install than concealed grids.
• Corridors: This system allows for plans to be used that can span from wall to wall, reducing the visible grid and number of fixings to the soffit.

Concealed Grid Systems

Concealed grid suspended ceilings are designed to hide the grid completely, creating a smooth, uninterrupted ceiling surface. They are only designed for areas that require occasional access to the ceiling void to protect the ceiling tiles.

• High-End Finish: Concealed grids offer a sleek, seamless look that’s perfect for spaces where aesthetics are a priority.

• Acoustic Enhancement: These systems are often paired with tiles designed for superior sound absorption, making them ideal for areas requiring high acoustic performance, such as theatres and conference rooms.
• Durability: The concealed grid system supports the tiles securely, ensuring longevity and stability.

Sizes Offered by Zentia

Zentia offers suspended ceiling grids in various sizes to meet different design and functional needs. The most common width sizes of visible grid include:

• 15mm Grid: This size is typically used in settings where a more delicate and less obtrusive grid is desired. For example, Gridline 15 is often paired with smaller or thinner ceiling tiles to create a refined look.

• 24mm Grid: The 24mm grid is the standard size for most commercial applications. It offers robust support for larger or heavier tiles. Gridline 24 is commonly used in offices, schools, and healthcare facilities.

Components of Suspended Ceiling Grids

Understanding the components of a suspended ceiling grid is key to appreciating how these systems work.

• Hangers: Hangers are wires or rods that attach the grid to the structural ceiling above, suspending the grid system in place.
• Main Runners: These are the primary support beams that run the length of the ceiling, providing the main structure for the grid. The structural hangers are then connected to these pieces to suspend the grid at the desired height.
• Cross Tees: Cross tees are shorter metal bars that connect to the main runners, creating a grid pattern that supports the ceiling tiles. They come in primary and secondary sizes. Typically, a 600x600 tile would use 1200mm long primary cross tees that connect to the main runner rout holes, and 600mm length secondary cross tees that connect to the primary cross tee to create the 600x600 modules.
• Perimeter Trims: The finishing touch to a ceiling installation, a range of perimeter trims can be used to complete the tile edges within the grid.

Functionality and Integration

These components work together to create a stable and secure framework for ceiling tiles. The main runners and cross tees form a grid pattern, while the hangers ensure that the entire system is level and properly aligned. When installed correctly, the suspended ceiling grid provides a durable and flexible ceiling solution that can be adapted to various design and functional needs. The grid can also integrate other services, including lights and air handling grilles to finish the complete ceiling solution.

Installation of Suspended Ceiling Grids

Installing a suspended ceiling grid requires careful planning and precision.

1. Planning and Measurement: Begin by measuring the space and planning the grid layout. Also ensure the services are located in the planned position. It’s crucial to ensure that the grid will be square and that tiles will fit neatly into the grid. It is best practice to have no less than half a tile cut at the perimeter.
2. Installing Hangers and Trims: Attach hangers to the structural soffit (typically 1200mm centres). These hangers will support the weight of the grid system. Perimeter trims are screwed to the walls at regular spacing and at the required height.
3. Installing Main Runners: Once the hangers are in place, install the main runners at the required height.
4. Adding Cross Tees: Install the primary cross tees between the two main runners, and secondary cross tees between the primary cross tees to create the desired tile module size. There should be an audible click when they engage correctly.
5. Laying Ceiling Tiles: Finally, lay the ceiling tiles into the grid, starting from the centre and working outwards. Ensure each tile fits snugly without forcing it into place. Perimeter tiles may need to be cut to size before installing into the grid.

Tips and Best Practices

• Check for Levelness: Continuously check that the grid is level during installation to prevent sagging or uneven tiles.
• Secure Hangers Properly: Ensure that hangers are securely fastened to avoid future ceiling issues.
• Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always follow the specific guidelines provided by the ceiling grid manufacturer to ensure proper installation.

Suspended ceiling grids are a versatile and functional solution for a variety of spaces. Whether you choose an exposed, semi-concealed, or concealed grid system, understanding the different types, components, and installation processes will help you achieve the best results for your project. Zentia’s wide range of grid sizes and high-quality components ensure that your ceiling will not only look great but also perform effectively for years to come. Explore our options today and find the perfect suspended ceiling grid for your needs.