What is one of the first areas that catches your eye when you walking into an office space? Naturally, your eyes may scan across the room, but there is no denying that the ceiling comes in at a close second. Aside from contributing to the atmosphere aesthetics of the area, ceilings play a vital infrastructural role. They house the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing components necessary to maintain operation of a business. Hence, choosing between the two most popular options—the suspended ceiling and the exposed ceiling—proves to be a difficult choice. However, let us start with looking at the traits of each one
Suspended Ceilings
The suspended ceiling consists of a metal grid on which tiles are attached and suspended three inches (or more depending on the location of wires and pipes) below the very top of the space. Office suspended ceilings rank high as one of the most common ceiling solutions. Below are some more of their distinctive traits.
Easy and fast installations
Professional suspended ceiling suppliers can quickly install the grid and tiles with minimal interruption to your workspace and daily operations. Depending on the complexity of the design, you are looking at having a brand-new, bespoken ceiling within days.
Soundproofing
Another quality of suspended ceilings, specifically those constructed from fiberglass, is their ability to block sound. You will not find this trait amongst drywall or plasterboard ceilings due to their solid surface, but the fiberglass option provides enough acoustic protection to minimize sound pollution from the upper levels.
Easy installation of electrical components
Because of its design, suspended ceilings allow contractors to have easy access to the space above. All they must do is remove the panels to be able to install and maintain wiring, light fixtures, and plumbing.
Fireproofing
Moreover, most tile materials are fire resistant, meaning that if a fire were to break out, the ceiling would not combust right away, thus mitigating the spread of flames. The metal suspension system itself is fireproof. Plus, a professional contractor can easily add an extra layer of protection by installing smoke detectors and a sprinkler system which is more easily installed on a suspended ceiling than other types since the removable tiles give easy access.
Brightened Interiors
Likewise, suspended ceilings offer a clean look with a symmetric design that would enhance any commercial space. Furthermore, if you opt for a reflecting material, then this improves the lighting of the room, thus increasing productivity and focus.
Customizable
Yet one other advantage is the flexibility with the design and finish. With a suspended ceiling, you can choose from a variety of colors and textures for the tiles. Also, you have more options in relation to the placement of light fixtures and ceiling fans.
Exposed Ceilings
The exposed ceiling displays all mechanics, plumbing, and electrical systems along with the building’s structure. This “unfinished” look actually requires a nominal amount of design and labor to be able to pull off the right aesthetic and skill. Additionally, you might consider the following factors.
Modern interior styles
The exposed ceiling lends itself to a modern style and creative, industrial-like aesthetic. By customizing the fixtures, a contractor can create a unique design along with a distinctive vibe.
Extra space
This selection also allows more space and a higher ceiling. Often more ceiling space means a cooler room since heat can escape more easily. Plus, the exposed ceiling gives a sense of more open space and makes the room feel and appear bigger.
Demanding maintenance
Unfortunately, the exposed ceiling requires regular cleaning and maintenance to protect the paint coats on the ducts, fixtures, and the ceiling itself. For this reason, this type of ceiling also needs to be repainted once or twice a year.
Sound considerations
Another disadvantage that you will run into is the constant “echo” that comes with an exposed ceiling. The larger space and the higher number of metal fixtures carry sound instead of absorbing it. Thus, you may have to hire a professional who can provide an acoustic treatment.
Higher labour costs
Finally, one big drawback, of course, is that the necessary skilled labor comes with an expensive price. Moreover, if you live in an area where increased construction is occurring, but the number of laborers runs short, then that will impact the project’s cost. Furthermore, this type of project requires a specific set of skills for creating a design where the MEP is visually attractive.
Conclusion
By looking around your office space, you might be able to visualize and determine which type of ceiling would complement your work area. However, you still have to look at the budget, flexibility, and sustainability when making this crucial decision. Thus, consulting with experienced and highly qualified suspended ceiling suppliers, like Crisp Contracts, can help you to gain the most appealing, bespoken, office suspended ceilings that are easy to maintain and provide an upbeat atmosphere that your employees will enjoy. Contact us today.