Buildeey
False Ceiling Calculator
Area of the ceiling (in meter)
Area not covered (in meter)
Allowance (in %)
Price per meter
Totals
Total Sq meter all areas: sq. m
Estimated Total Cost:

How much should you pay for false ceiling installation?

The cost of false ceiling per square foot is between $5 and $28. It includes materials and labor. So, for a 200 sq. ft. room, prepare at least $1,000. 
Prices vary on the quality of material, location, and additional features.
A common question for homeowners is where to put a false ceiling? Anywhere! Here’s a rundown of suggestions you could install them:
  • Living room
  • Bedroom
  • Kids room
  • Dining room
  • Prayer room

Factors that affect the total cost

Aside from the size of the covered area, the following factors also influence the total cost:

  1. Type
  • Gypsum false ceiling: $1 to $1.75/ sq. ft.
  • Grid ceiling: starts at $1/sq. ft.
  • POP ceiling: $1 to $1.50/ sq. ft.
  • Metal ceiling: starts at $1.20/ sq. ft.
  1. Shape
  • Box ceiling
  • Geometric design
  • Peripheral design
  • Intricate lattice
  • Wooden slats
  • Inverted cove
  • Quality
  • Availability
  • The complexity of the work
  • Panel Quality

Labor Cost

False ceiling companies near me charge from $2 to $5/sq.ft. Expect to spend between $400 -$1,000 for your 200 sq.ft.room.
A licensed contractor charges $70 to $135 per hour. Getting that 1,000 sq.ft. area covered, could take more than three days.
  • Constructing and placing the grid network: 3 days at most
  • Installing the ceiling: 4-6hr.
  • Additional features like rail covers: up to 6hr.

Pros and Cons of having a false ceiling

Advantages

  • A false ceiling helps in insulating the room by providing a gap between itself and the first layer. Thus, it could also cut electricity costs.
  • Easy to install.
  • It hides ugly stains and marks on the original layer.
  • Quick access to electrical wirings.
  • It makes the room prettier and cozier.

Disadvantages

  • Installing a false ceiling require the supervision of the professionals
  • Not available for all homes (ceiling height must be at least 11 feet).
  • Not as durable and sturdy as the traditional/ original ceiling
  • Some types are time-consuming to install

Enhancement and maintenance cost

Listed below are some of the activities during the installation process that could incur additional costs:

  • Coupling gypsum with other false ceiling materials for better appearance and functions. These materials include glass, acrylic, and plywood.
  • The removal of dirt and stains on ceilings and walls.
  • Cutting of POP ceiling and gypsum to fit the desired lighting arrangement.
  • Finishing touches like paint and wallpaper.
  • Procurement of miscellaneous materials needed for the installation process.
  • Adding insulation tiles ($1.60 to $1.85 per square foot).
  • Vinyl rail covers ($0.45 to $0.60 per linear foot).

How to install a false ceiling?

  1. Measure the length of your room.
  2. Mark a horizontal line 4-6 inches below the original ceiling.
  3. Cut the metal wall angles. Then, screw the metal along the line.
  4. For the grid system, prepare the main runners and make sure they fit the area.
  5. Hang them using some wires attached along the joists perpendicularly.
  6. Cut the false ceiling tiles to fit them between the grids. 
  7. Start putting the ceiling tiles at the center and continue until the grids are all covered.