rmorton wrote:
RickWeb wrote:
Hi,

I have an idea for my basement ceiling and was wondering if anyone has
done something similar. I want access to the wires, pipes etc in the
basement ceiling and do not want to use the typical t-bar ceiling.

I was thinking about making ten I-Beams about 4 or 5 inches in height
out of wood and installing then to my floor joists. They would be
spaced about 24" apart. I then plan to rest a piece of drywall (about
26" wide) on the top edge of the bottom plate of each I-Beam. The
drywall would be suspended and easily removable. The bottom plate of
the I-Beam is then stained to match the fireplace mantle, wet bar, and
built in book shelfs. I will need about ten I-Beams at 12 feet in
length (think of these as Main-T's) and I will then place shorter
wooden I-Beams as cross T's.

Anyone see an issue with this method? My only concern is the sagging
of the drywall. If it is spaced no more than 24" apart, do you think
it will sag?

So...wooden I-beams like below with drywall resting on the lower plate
of each I-Beam. That's it.
__ __
_|_ _______________ _|_
drywall

Thanks,
Rather than using drywall, have you considered using plywood and
staining it a contrasting color to the exposed I-beams? Might add an
interesting effect to your ceiling at only a slight increase in cost IMHO

you know, I just got a great idea. I have an old drop ceiling in my
basement and I wish someone had brought this up before I bought a whole
package of replacement tiles. I should have bought some plywood instead
and stained and varnished them for a nicer effect. plywood cut to size
of standard ceiling tile. I think it might make a nice effect.

I have also seen drop in tiles that look like an old pressed tin
ceiling, the only difference is you still use the standard T-bar grid.
That's another option, although I expect those to be expensive.

nate

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