Taking to the Air

by marika_gabriel | 13 November 2023 10:00 am

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The use and popularity of metal ceiling systems is rising due to their sleek, high-tech look, making them ideal for apex spaces in transportation, hospitality, education, healthcare, and retail environments.

Metal ceilings combine inviting aesthetics with effective acoustic control when perforated and lined with sound-absorbent materials, making them a versatile design element.

Durability is a major reason for their popularity. Metal ceiling panels endure well in spaces requiring plenum access, frequent cleaning, and occupant interaction. Moreover, they promote healthier environments as they can be easily cleaned and disinfected.

Humidity resistance and low maintenance are other important considerations when selecting a metal ceiling product.

In today’s competitive market, the many benefits of metal ceiling systems abound. From environmental benefits—including sustainable products—to thermal comfort and products that are designed to install quickly, it all makes a difference. For example, metal ceilings made with aluminum can be created with a significant amount of recycled content, helping to meet stringent sustainability standards.

Radiant metal ceilings, which are also made with aluminum, provide thermal comfort, while also reducing reverberation and improving acoustics—both of which contribute to the indoor environmental quality of a space.

Fast delivery of standard products is yet another benefit. If an architect or contractor knows exactly what they want and if the product is in inventory, it is going to ship in less than a month. That speed is important, especially as construction schedules constantly evolve.

Ease of installation

Metal ceilings install easily into standard well-known suspension systems and integrate with standard light fixtures and sprinkler and HVAC systems. Factory-cut panels created specifically to fit light fixtures are an added benefit, reducing the need to field-cut panels, creating ample time savings.

In the case of “free-floating” clouds and canopy configurations, installation is made easier through the availability of kits containing all components that are pre-engineered for fit and finish to ensure consistent visual quality. This allows faster and easier installation since the system requires no field modification, only assembly.

In fact, many metal ceilings are designed for installation in 23.8 mm (0.93 in.) suspension systems, which make for ideal renovation applications as well as new construction. Since there is no need to replace an existing suspension system, renovation projects can be completed quickly.

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Lightweight metal ceilings with realistic wood-look finishes bring the warmth and beauty of natural wood indoors without the need to use heavy, solid wood products. These lightweight options create an elevated visual with upscale appeal. The ease of installing lightweight panels and even panelized systems supports faster job completion on every level.

In fact, for projects that have a substantial amount of square footage, a panelized linear metal ceiling system installs twice as fast versus blade by blade when linear visuals are desired. This results in significant time and labor savings for the contractor.

Assistance available

The increasing popularity of metal ceiling systems has resulted in the need for continued collaboration between the specifier, contractor, and ceiling manufacturer—especially in custom commercial installations.

To meet this need, distinguished ceiling manufacturers now offer complimentary consultative design and pre-construction services that provide project management for the ceiling system, from concept to completion. Specialists with expertise in both architecture and engineering partner with architects and contractors in the implementation of signature ceilings and wall systems and designs.

This service offers an eco-friendly advantage by optimizing panels to reduce costs and material waste. With a wide range of metal ceiling systems available in various designs, perforations, and colors, architects and contractors can easily find the right system for their needs.

Sarah Zeitler is the product marketing manager, MetalWorks, at Armstrong World Industries. She can be reached at sezeitler@armstrongceilings.com.

Source URL: https://www.metalconstructionnews.com/articles/features/taking-to-the-air/

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