Ceiling panels are easy to install in virtually all circumstances. But there are a few different techniques and tricks of the trade that might come in useful for those looking how to install ceiling panels.
The state of the existing ceiling will be important in deciding how the panels are to be installed. The currently ceiling covering is also a major factor. The existing covering will be less of an issue if you are planning on lowering the ceiling height.
This can be done by creating a wooden framework. The panels are then attached to the framework lowering the visible height of the room. This is ideal if you want to fit recessed lighting.
So let’s look at the different existing types of bathroom ceiling first.
Fit Panels Over Artex
Can ceiling panels be installed over Artex? The simple answer is yes.
It might be best to knock off any high spots with a chisel first if the pattern in the Artex has created any. Although this is not 100% necessary the flatter the ceiling is to start with the easier it will be to fit the panels over that surface. Some texturing compounds supplied in the past contained asbestos. So you need to check that your ceiling is not affected before you scrape or hack off. If in doubt consult an expert.
If you do not want to hack off any of the compound simply apply the adhesive for the ceiling panels in larger blobs. Allow the adhesive to set before moving on to the next panel.
You can try to use the adhesive in conjunction with staples or screws. But this is a little more tricky if the sub-surface is very uneven. If this is not feasible use props such as garden canes to hold the panels in place.
Fit Panels Over A Plastered Ceiling
A plastered ceiling provides a lovely smooth flat surface from which to proceed.
Adhesive can be applied to the back of the panel in a snake pattern. It is then pushed home into place. A couple of staples from a staple gun can be used to hold the panel in place whilst the adhesive sets. A few small screws can be used if the plaster will not take a staple. Screw or staple through the tongue part of the tongue and groove. This will then get hidden by the next panel.
Lath and plaster ceilings are notoriously hard to work with. But ceiling panels are very light and can stuck straight over them. Screws and staples might not work with this surface. So use props or wait for each panel to to set before proceeding to the next one.
Panelling Over A Papered Ceiling
Another finish that provides a nice flat surface. You can use the same technique as for plaster above. But a few more mechanical fixings are recommended. This is because you will be relying on the strength of the wallpaper adhesive to hold everything in place. Alternatively you can strip the wallpaper off back to the plaster. This can be done in a very rough manner. It does not have to be a work of art because the panels are very forgiving and will cover a multitude of sins!
Wooden Tongue And Groove
This surface is also flat. And it is one that works perfectly with a staple gun if you are wondering how to install ceiling panels in this situation . You can take a “belt and braces” approach and use adhesive as well but it is not usually necessary.
Screws are an obvious alternative in this situation. But be careful that you don’t slip with your screwdriver or cordless drill. You can easily mark or puncture the decorative surface with the sharp blade.
Ceiling Panels – Recycling
PVC ceiling panels are 100% recyclable. They also have one extra trick up their sleeve – they can be removed and re-used somewhere else. For this to work you need to fit the panels using screws as mentioned in several of the instances above.
You can cover any visible screws around the edges with a coving trim. A two-part coving trim will fit over the screws and will clip in place. Simply un-clip the trim, remove the screws and take the panels down if you want to remove the panels to use them elsewhere
If the panels have been stuck in pace they might still be re-useable. You will need to see how easily they detach from the surface. If they come off in one piece then you will be able to re-use them in another room or wherever they are needed.
