"RogerT" wrote in message
...
I have been researching information about what some people call a "Chicago
grid" drywall ceiling system. Apparently, they call it a Chicago grid
because the metal framing for the ceiling to which the drywall is attached
is made by Chicago Metallic Co. Other manufacturers such as Armstrong also
make similar metal "drywall ceiling grid" systems.

For a number of reasons, I want to use this system for the ceiling in a
basement apartment that I am having completely redone in a 3-unit
apartment building that I own.

Since I have never done this type of ceiling before, I plan on hiring a
contractor who knows how to do Chicago grid ceilings to do the rough-in of
this ceiling. But, at the same time, I want to be able to watch and see
how it is done and also have my own regular contractor watch or help with
the installation so he too can see how these are done. I found a couple
of local building supply places that sell the Chicago grid metal framing
and I will be asking them for names of local contractors who buy the metal
framing from them and who regularly do Chicago grid ceilings. Ideally, I
would like to find an experienced contractor who will charge me by the day
for the labor part of the job, and I will pay for the materials.

The apartment that needs the new ceiling has a living room, bedroom,
kitchen, bath, and two closets -- all of which will be getting a Chicago
grid drywall ceiling. I really only need the contractor for the metal
framing part, and maybe to hang some or all of the drywall. My regular
contractor knows how to hang drywall and can do all of the finish work --
taping, painting, etc.

My question is, does anyone have a rough idea of about how long it would
take a contractor and a helper to do the metal framing on a 4 room
apartment such as the one I am having redone? The total square feet of
the 4 rooms is a little less than 500 square feet. I am thinking that a
contractor could probably do all of the metal framing in less than a day,
and maybe do the rough hanging of some of the sheetrock in the same day.

Does anyone know if that is about right?

For those who are unfamiliar with this ceiling system (as I was), it is
basically similar to a regular drop ceiling system except the metal
framing is stronger and the drywall gets screwed into the metal framing
from underneath and the seams later taped and finished, rather than
dropping panels in on top of the metal framing.

Thanks.


Speaking both as a retired contractor and as a person like yourself, hire a
contractor to do whatever portion you want them to do, have your
friend/contactor over for both of you to watch, ask the minimal amount of
questions and learn what you can.

I personally never minded a client watching. I did not mind them asking a
few questions. I absolutely did not want their help. The potential
liabilities were not insurable.

No contractor is going to offer to teach you, but you should be able to
learn by watching.

I only have a nickel. Do you have my 3 cents change?


--
Colbyt
Please come visit http://www.househomerepair.com