Suspended ceilings are a great option if you’re looking for change, but don’t want to make too big of a statement. It’s quick and easy to install, but with the right design, it can look aesthetically pleasing. If you’re unsure of how much installing a suspended ceiling cost, you are at the right place.
This article provides information about different types of suspended ceilings and shares some helpful tips and price examples to give you an idea of how much suspended ceilings cost and how you can save money on the installation.
Why install a suspended ceiling?
A suspended ceiling is an attractive and easy alternative to hanging full-scale ceilings. It saves time and money, while creating a custom look. These can be customised in terms of texture and colour with any wall partitions or any other dry lining services that you may need.
One of the most economical and versatile types of ceiling on the market today, suspended ceilings are an excellent choice for any room that doesn’t need lowered acoustical treatments. They will never go out of style and can look great when brought together with beautiful lighting and other decor.
Additionally, they are a great way to hide unsightly wires and even smoke detectors. The suspended ceilings can also increase your homes’ insulation and temperature.
Average suspended ceiling cost per m2
While it’s unlikely two suspended ceilings will be the same, there are certain factors that can affect the price, no matter the size of your job. The table below is an estimate which you could use to compute a ballpark amount for your property.
| Ranges | Supply of Tiles Only | Supply & Fit – 40 m² area |
| National Average | £6.71 / m² | £26.63 / m² |
| Typical Range | £22 – £35 / m² | |
| Low End – High End | £16 – £55.50 / m² | |
| Suspended ceiling cost / drop ceiling cost | £5 – £8 per m2 | £6.50 |
Factors that determine suspended ceiling cost
There are many factors that you would need to consider when determining the suspended ceiling cost.
- Location: The cost can vary based on the location of your property. Certain areas will be more expensive. Areas in the South tend to have higher living costs and overheads compared to the North. Particularly in London, expect to pay 10-20% in labour costs on top of the average prices.
- Multiple areas: If you have several smaller areas then you may need to carry out extra cutting. This may add to your final quote.
- Ceiling tiles: There are many different kinds of tiles available. These can range from your standard budget options to tiles that are best suited to high-traffic areas like bathrooms and kitchens. The kind of tile you choose is also affected by the surface you’re working with and the particular use of the room.
- Lighting systems: Opting for a lighting system that is integrated across a number of suspended ceilings can save money in the long run.
- Ceiling height: Higher ceilings mean increased labour times which raises the price.
- Building access: If you’re setting out to fit a suspended ceiling in an area where the work is likely to cause any disruption, such as near shops or public transport hubs, then you need to factor parking costs into your quote.
Common ceiling type for suspended ceilings
There are broadly four categories including acoustical, plastic, tin and cork. The category defines the quality of the material and how it’s used within your room.
- Acoustical Ceiling Tiles: Acoustical ceiling tiles are usually made of fiberglass, and are installed using a drop-ceiling method. This means that metal strapping is installed across the ceiling and the tiles are dropped or hung from the straps, although some brands do make tiles that can snap together without visible straps.
- Plastic Ceiling Tiles: Plastic ceiling tiles are a great, affordable alternative to classic tin tiles. Their lightweight and easy-to-install design makes them perfect for home, office or even your restaurant.
- Tin Ceiling Tiles: Tin ceiling tiles are easy to install and make a wonderful rustic addition to a home. You will find an array of styles and colour patterns to fit your taste and preferences.
- Cork Ceiling Tiles: Cork tiles are a fire and water resistant, as well as sound absorbing, ceiling tile that is an eco-friendly option. They have unique benefits that make them ideal for families looking to create a safe and quiet home.
Benefits of suspended ceilings
There are many advantages and use cases of using suspended ceilings for your property. Suspended ceilings are generally straightforward to install and allow for damaged tiles to be easily replaced. It’s a great solution to hide ducts and wiring and make the house look more aesthetically pleasing. During maintenance, the contractors can access the wires and ducts without any difficulty. It’s also a more economical solution than mortar and beam-based ceilings.
Important considerations when installing suspended ceilings
- Though it was predominantly used in commercial and industrial buildings, they are now more popular in residential properties too.
- They are a great addition when you want to cover the wirings or even support a lighting system and add insulation.
- The suspended ceiling cost is usually determined by the tiles used, materials involved, ceiling area size, and its height.
If you have a requirement for suspended ceilings for your property, do get in touch with us. Our plasterers in South London and Surrey can you help you provide a custom quotation based on your requirements.
