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Do you want to improve the acoustics, insulation, and quality of light in your business environment? There is a way to do this, all while boosting aesthetics, concealing wires, and establishing a uniform appearance. The answer could be with a suspended ceiling. Not sure what suspended ceilings are or how they can benefit your business? Well, look no further. In this blog, we will explore what suspended ceilings are, which types are available, and the many benefits suspended ceilings deliver. Read on for everything you need to know about suspended ceilings for your business…

When it comes to suspended ceilings, it’s important that you come to a company you can trust. With a reputation for superior craftsmanship and a dedication to client care, we at Hickey Ltd are the leading choice for suspended ceilings. We work alongside a range of clients to deliver high-quality suspended ceilings. So, if we sound like the company for you, contact our specialists today!

First things first, what is a suspended ceiling?

A suspended ceiling, also known as a dropped ceiling or false ceiling is simply a second ceiling. Our suspended ceilings primarily function to cover any necessary wires, heating, and ventilation systems, whilst providing a clean appearance. We have installed a wide range of plasterboard and lay-in grid suspended ceilings. Our metal frame (MF) ceiling systems have many different performance requirements, from wet areas and sound deadening to fire containment.

Where are suspended ceilings installed?

Suspended ceilings are versatile and can be installed in a myriad of indoor settings to meet various design and functional requirements. Suspended ceilings are typically installed in…

  • Commercial buildings: Suspended ceilings can be found in commercial buildings such as offices, retail stores, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and schools.
  • Residential buildings: Suspended ceilings can be found in homes, flats, apartments, and other residential environments.
  • Industrial environments: Suspended ceilings can be found in warehouses, factories, manufacturing plants, and other industrial facilities.
  • Institutional buildings: Suspended ceilings can be found in government buildings, libraries, museums, and other institutional structures.
  • Entertainment venues: Suspended ceilings can be found in theatres, cinemas, concert halls, and auditoriums.
  • Transportation environments: Suspended ceilings can be found in airports, train stations, bus terminals, and other transportation facilities.

Not sure if a suspended ceiling is right for your environment? Why not get in touch with Hickey Ltd today? We can provide trusted advice and recommendations for suspended ceiling installation.

What types of suspended ceilings are there?

We at Hickey Ltd, are a well-established plastering and dry lining contractor, based in Hertfordshire, covering all areas of the South East. As you can see from our project’s portfolio, we have installed a wide range of suspended ceiling systems all over the South East.

Our range of suspended ceiling systems include:

  • Tile and grid systems, from standard 600mm x 600mm mineral fibre tiles in an exposed grid, to pre-finished 1200 x 600mm metal ceiling tiles from SAS in a concealed grid.
  • Simple mineral fibre tile lay-in grid systems.
  • Complex metal pan tile concealed grid systems.
  • Plasterboard ceilings, on a metal frame (MF).
  • And more!

Replacing your old and stained suspended ceiling can transform your office. In a short space of time, with minimal disruption, you can enjoy a bright and modern space. To replace an old suspended ceiling, or to install a brand new one, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.

What are the benefits of suspended ceilings?

We have seen our clients enjoy the benefits of suspended ceilings time and time again. Here are some of the advantages that you and your business can enjoy when installing a suspended ceiling of your own…

  • Clean, Professional Finish

Suspended ceilings establish a clean and professional working environment. They do this by concealing wires, heating, and ventilation systems in the framework of the ceiling. They also allow light fittings, CCTV, smoke detectors and more to be installed. So whether in an office, transportation hub or industrial environment, you can enjoy a clean, uniform finish.

  • Improved Acoustics

Suspended ceilings are manufactured with insulation in mind. This means that our suspended ceilings boast improved acoustics by acting as a sound barrier within many environments, from homes to businesses and beyond. This is a great advantage for locations with lots of footfall and/or communication as well as providing greater levels of privacy.

  • Better Insulation

In addition to enhancing the acoustics within buildings, suspended ceilings are proven to enhance the thermal insulation properties of a building. As the overall ceiling height of a room will be reduced, this means that hot air can be ‘trapped’ within a room and won’t be released into the ceiling. This, therefore, delivers better insulative properties.

  • Improved Light Quality

Suspended ceilings are manufactured with performance and user-friendliness in mind. Therefore, suspended ceilings can return up to 90% of the light into your space, compared to around 75% for standard ceilings. This is a great benefit for offices as better lighting works to reduce eye strain, fatigue and headaches.

  • Accessibility

Offices, industrial environments, residential settings and more all require maintenance over time. Suspended ceilings provide easy access to the area above the ceiling for maintenance and repairs to be completed on mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. This accessibility means that disruption to the space below will be significantly minimised.

  • Fire-Resistant

Our range of suspended ceilings is fire-resistant and, in the event of a fire, contributes to fire containment. This means that your premises will be protected for longer should a fire occur, providing valuable time for building occupants to escape and for the emergency services to respond.

  • Cost-Effective

For those seeking cost-effective solutions, suspended ceilings may be the answer you’ve been looking for. Suspended ceilings are typically more cost effective than traditional plaster ceilings, both in terms of initial installation costs and long-term maintenance and repair expenses.

With these benefits, it’s clear that suspended ceilings are the high-performance solution for cost-effective insulation, accessibility, fire resistance, enhanced aesthetics and much more. So what are you waiting for? If you’re ready for suspended ceiling installation, here’s how it works.

Factors To Consider For Suspended Ceiling Installation

When planning for suspended ceiling installation, several factors should be considered to ensure a successful and long-lasting installation. Here are some key factors to consider for your suspended ceiling installation…

  • Ceiling Height

You will need to determine the desired height of the suspended ceiling, taking into account the existing structural ceiling. You will need to ensure that there is sufficient space for the installation of the grid framework and ceiling tiles while maintaining adequate headroom.

  • Building Codes and Regulations

We recommend familiarising yourself with relevant local building codes, regulations, and fire safety requirements about suspended ceiling installations. All suspended ceilings must be compliant with relevant standards and permits must be obtained as required.

  • Ceiling Material Selection

Consider the ceiling material for your suspended ceiling based on factors such as aesthetics, acoustics, fire resistance, insulation, and budget. Consider the specific requirements of the space and select applicable ceiling tiles and grid components.

  • Grid Layout and Design

You will need to plan the layout and design of the grid framework for your suspended ceiling. Carefully consider factors including the size and shape of the room, lighting and HVAC fixture locations, access points for maintenance, and aesthetics.

  • Lighting and Fixture Integration

We recommend planning the placement and installation of fixtures to ensure compatibility and adequate support. Installations may include HVAC systems, lighting fixtures, air vents, speakers, sprinklers, and more.

  • Accessibility Requirements

Consider accessibility requirements for maintenance and repairs of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems located above the suspended ceiling. Plan for access panels and removable ceiling tiles to facilitate easy access to hidden infrastructure.

  • Installation Timeline and Budget

We advise developing a realistic timeline and budget for the suspended ceiling installation, taking into account factors such as labour costs, material expenses, project scope, and any potential delays or unforeseen challenges.

By considering these factors during the planning of suspended ceiling installation, you can ensure a successful outcome that meets your functional, aesthetic, and budgetary requirements. Get in touch with Hickey Ltd today for more information.

How are suspended ceilings installed?

 Contact Us

Get in touch with us to discuss your suspended ceiling installation requirements. We’ll work alongside you to decide on the best type of suspended ceiling for your needs.  
Planning

We will create detailed plans for your suspended ceiling installation. These plans will then be presented to you for approval before work commences.
Construction

We will undertake the construction and installation of your suspended ceiling using the high standards of workmanship that we’re known for across the industry.  
Job Done!

Once the installation of your suspended ceiling is complete, all that’s left for you to do is move back into your office or property once we’ve cleaned up and left the premises.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Suspended Ceilings

Does a suspended ceiling need building regulation approval?

Depending on the size and complexity of the work required, you may need building regulation approval for your suspended ceiling. When work affects fire escape routes, toilet facilities, insulation, and the structure of the building, they will likely require approval. Contact us for more information.

Can I install lighting fixtures and other components in a suspended ceiling?

Yes, suspended ceilings offer a convenient way to integrate lighting fixtures, air vents, speakers, sprinklers, and other components into the ceiling design.

How do I maintain and clean a suspended ceiling?

Regular maintenance of suspended ceilings involves dusting or vacuuming the ceiling tiles, inspecting for damage or discolouration, and addressing any issues promptly.

How do I choose the right suspended ceiling for my space?

Consider factors such as aesthetics, acoustics, thermal insulation, fire resistance, budget, and maintenance requirements when selecting a suspended ceiling system.

How much does it cost to hang a suspended ceiling?      

The cost of a suspended ceiling will vary depending on the size and complexity of the work. We recommend getting in touch with us to discuss your requirements and receive a quote.

How long does it take to install a suspended ceiling?

The length of time it takes to install a suspended ceiling will vary depending on your requirements. We recommend getting in touch with us to discuss your requirements and receive a more accurate schedule.

How do I get a quote for suspended ceiling installation?

If you’re ready for suspended ceiling installation, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today!

Need something else? We also install Partition Walls

A partition wall is a versatile structure installed in offices, welfare areas and commercial spaces to organise the space. As dividing walls, they are typically non-load bearing and are used to separate spaces in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to facilitate better organisation and functionality. As your partition wall contractor, we have carried out the installation of many different types of metal stud partitioning. If you’re looking for a professional and reliable partition wall contractor for partition wall installation, get in touch with us today.

Why choose us for your suspended ceilings?

We provide services such as Suspended Ceilings, Plastering, Dry Lining, Floor Screeding, Partitioning and Office Partitioning, and raised Flooring. From start to finish, our managers and site teams will work with the client to ensure a smooth flow to the project from the start. Our interest is in getting your project over the line, on time, and on budget. Contact us today!

  Years of Experience  

We have years of experience in installing suspended ceilings for a range of clients.  
  Tailormade Solutions  

We understand that each project is unique, and each one is tailored to your needs.
  Fully Certified  

We are fully certified and approved, so your project is in safe hands with us.

If you’re looking for high-quality suspended ceilings, then you’ve found the answer with Hickey Ltd. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today!

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