A false ceiling may be defined as a secondary ceiling hung below the primary ceiling or roof. A false ceiling is also known as a dropped ceiling, T-bar ceiling, grid ceiling, suspended ceiling, drop-in ceiling, drop-out ceiling, or ceiling tiles. A false ceiling is considered as an important element of modern architecture and construction.
False ceilings are crafted from a variety of materials such as wood, Plaster of Paris (POP), gypsum, asbestos sheet, particle boards, and aluminum panels. In this article, we will discuss a detailed comparison between pop vs gypsum false ceiling.
Why Do We Require A Good False Ceiling?
As an integral part of modern construction, the false ceiling has a wide variety of uses. It is used for purpose like:
i) Enhancing the aesthetical beauty of the location where it is installed.
ii) As a sound insulator in places like music studios.
iii) To conceal the electrical wires, pipes, and other utilities, in the roof.
iv) To eliminate the need for extra & unnecessary artificial lighting, due to its capability to reflect & diffuse light. Thin results in lower consumption of power.
v) False ceilings are also capable of resisting fire & moisture as well.
Hence, a well-planned false ceiling offers functional as well as the aesthetic features.
There are a few points which are to be kept in mind before and after installing the false ceiling. They are as follows
i) Maintenance of the false ceiling should be properly done on time. If there is any small repair, do it on time.
ii) The height or the clearance from the floor to the ceiling should be maintained.
iii) The material chosen for the ceiling shall be chosen according to the type of ambiance required.
Plaster Of Paris Or POP False Ceiling
The plaster of Paris (POP) false ceilings are widely used everywhere. It is a very common variety amongst all types of materials of false ceilings. One of the reasons, the plaster of Paris false ceilings are widely used is that it is inexpensive as compared to all the other materials.
As we know, plaster of Paris is resistant to any weather condition, the chances of its damage due to weather changes are comparatively lesser. It can be molded into any desired shape of your choice. But highly skilled people (workers) are required for it.
The plaster of Paris can also be used with other false ceiling material like glass, wood & fiber, to form a combination. POP also hives a smooth & even finishes to the ceiling.
Advantages Of POP False Ceiling
i) Plaster of Paris is a very durable material. It can sustain for a longer period of time.
ii) Plaster of Paris can be easily molded in various shapes and designs as per the customer’s choice.
iii) Plaster of Paris ceilings is approximately 30 to 40 percent cheaper as compared to gypsum ceilings. Hence they turn out to be more cost-effective.
iv) A smoother finish and an even surface are obtained in Plaster of Paris ceilings.
Disadvantages Of POP False Ceiling
i) Requires skilled workers for the design of the ceilings made from Plaster of Paris.
ii) Wastage of Plaster of Paris mixture is more & can make the site untidy due to its powder form.
iii) The plaster of Paris has to be in a perfect and completely dry state. Otherwise, its installation could be difficult due to the moisture present in it.
Gypsum False Ceiling
The gypsum false ceilings, obviously made out of gypsum, which is hydrated calcium sulfate, are ready to install boards, are manufactured in the factory itself as per the requirements of the customer. After that, they are transported to the site and they are assembled on-site using metal frames. The gypsum false ceilings are mostly used where the central air conditioning systems are to be used.
Advantages Of Gypsum False Ceiling
i) Gypsum false ceiling boards are comparatively easier to install.
ii) Gypsum boards provide a flawless look to the ceiling without too many joints.
iii) The consistency of the product’s quality is maintained as it is manufactured in factories by machines.
Disadvantages Of Gypsum False Ceiling
i) Gypsum false ceiling boards are more expensive than plaster of Paris false ceiling.
ii) Uninstallation of gypsum is a bit clumsy process. The whole ceiling will have to be damaged if there’s any kind of repair.
iii) Sometimes, reshaping of boards may take place due to water seepage in gypsum boards from leaking roofs or air conditioning pipes.
Conclusion:
POP Vs Gypsum False Ceiling – Which One Is better?
Gypsum is definitely the material preferred by most of the crowd nowadays. Gypsum despite being more costly is chosen at a higher rate by people because the advantages exceed the disadvantages in terms of cleanliness, installation process, and the surface finish of gypsum boards.
The house owners are willing to happily invest in gypsum false ceiling despite the higher initial cost of the system. Gypsum, having a less tedious process of installation, also helps in saving time.
Also, it goes well with other materials like wood & glass. To conclude, the gypsum false ceiling is definitely said to be better in comparison with the Plaster of Paris false ceiling.
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