Basement Ceiling Ideas for Every Taste and Style
We covered one of our rental basement renovations on another of our sites, and we've decided to share it here as well because so many of you asked. We cover ceiling tiles, both tin ceiling tiles, drop ceiling tiles and the traditional sort, coffered ceilings and drop ceilings (AKA suspended ceilings). So without further ado, here it is! Enjoy!
We recently decided that it would be a good idea to remodel one of our rental basements, to bring it up to date with the rest of the home and to add some new living space. We knew exactly what we wanted to do with most of the basement, but when it came to the ceiling, we were coming up short (ahem). After a long discussion with our contractor, we eventually decided on using faux ceiling beams from Barron Designs. But the choice was close, because these other great options also have some special advantages. Let's run through your options now, just in case you're trying to decide for yourself what you should do.
Faux Ceiling Beams
As I said, this was our first choice, because we absolutely loved the effect it created. It was incredibly easy to install, and we could do the whole project ourselves which saved us a pretty penny. It really helps to make our basement feel large and spacious (although the excavation work really helped as well!).
Drop Ceilings
Also known as a suspended ceiling, you probably remember these from college or high school - they're a series of tiles supported by a simple metal grid. The real advantage to this type of ceiling is that you can easily lift up the drop ceiling tiles if there's a pipe or wire that needs attention.
Ceiling Tiles
That's right, they're not just for the bathroom. Ceiling tiles are a great way to add some style to your basement, although this is definitely not a DIY project, as tile grouting is tough to manage even on the floor, let along on upside-down on the ceiling.
Tin Ceilings
Originally popular in the Victorian era, tin ceilings can help create a distinguished air in your basement, and would be a great match if you're planning on installing a home bar in your basement (tin ceiling tiles are often still seen around British-style pubs and restaurants, and in many Victorian-style homes).
Coffered Ceilings
Coffered ceilings are another great option for creating a sense of class and elegance. These ceilings have become quite rare, but are a fantastic architectural detail. Just make sure that you'll have enough room, because the nature of a coffered ceiling can take up valuable headroom - it won't seem so elegant if you hit your head every time you walk around!
There you have it! There are a huge range of basement ceiling ideas out there, and hopefully we've been able to inspire you with some great new ideas for what to do with your own basement ceiling project. Basements don't have to be boring!
Drywall ceilings:
This is easily the most traditional type of ceiling in western houses, because it's possible to create a smooth and seamless surface that is easily painted. Very frustrating if you have to do any kind of repair work though, because you basically have to bash a hole in your ceiling to get at the pipes and wires above.
Painting:
If you're just interested in a way to spruce things up cheaply, and you still want easy access to your pipes and wiring, slapping a nice coat of paint on everything is definitely a great option. Just make sure you lay down drop cloths so you don't ruin your new flooring or carpeting!
