Different types of ceilings

Ordinary ceilings: Materials will consist of 6mm Rhino-boards nailed to and including 32mm x 32mm branders with metal cover strips and 75mm Rhino-cornices. This type of ceiling can be fitted in any house or room, but is a very ordinary ceiling and the cheapest option to install.

Plastered ceilings: Materials for this ceiling will consist of 9,5mm Rhino-boards screwed to and including 32mm x 32mm branders with Fiba-tape over the joints of the boards and Polystyrene cornices. Plastering of complete ceilings with Rhinolite will follow installation. This type of ceiling is mostly fitted in entertainment areas and main bedrooms. It is more expensive, but adds value to your home.

Ordinary ceilings under tin roofs / outside where water could be a problem: Materials will consist of 4mm Nutek-boards (Fibre cement), nailed to and including 32mm x 32mm branders with metal cover strips and 75mm Rhino-cornices. This type of ceiling is fitted where water could cause problems. Panels harden when water is spilled.

Suspended ceilings: A more commercialised type of ceiling. Materials will consist of 12mm Vinyl covered, Gypsum panels (1200 x 600) on white T-Sections and white wall angles. This type of ceiling is often fitted in kitchens and bathrooms, because of its clean and neat appearance and the fact that it never needs to be painted.

Note: Polystyrene cornices look expensive and will compliment any type of ceiling in any room.
Tips for painting your own ceiling
What you will need: Paint-roller with extension handle; paintbrushes; paint; ladder; drop-cloths and tape.

Paint: Ceilings are mostly painted white, which is a good choice, but think carefully about the white you decide to go with. There are many hues available, from a warm-toned white to whites with more of a cool blue. Ensure that the hue compliments the color of your walls and décor. Oil-based paint used to be used for ceilings, but most interior paint used today, for ceilings and elsewhere, is water based (latex). Latex paint is easy to use, dries faster and smells better.

Before you start painting …

• Remove curtains and fixtures from the ceiling and walls.
• Place furniture in the middle of the room and cover with drop-cloths to protect from accidental spills.
• Remove loose floor coverings to prevent spillage and accidents.
• Use tape around the area of the wall where it meets the ceiling if the colour of your ceiling does not match the colour of your walls.
• Inspect the ceiling for cracks, dents and loose plaster. For smaller cracks use suitable fine filler and for larger holes and cracks use suitable strong filler. Try and leave a smooth finish when filling by filling it slightly proud of the surrounding area and sand down with sandpaper until level.

General things to keep in mind when painting a ceiling …

• All metal stick outs like nails and metal cover strips needs to be painted with an universal undercoat.
• Most ceilings will need two coats of paint. Allow the first coat to dry, before applying a second coat.
• Painting a ceiling with an extended roller brush is much easier than getting on a ladder with a paint brush.
• Work in small sections when painting and ensure that your painting actions are smooth and even.
• If you have low ceilings, ensure that you paint them a shade or two lighter than your walls to add height, and a shade or two darker if you have high ceilings.
• Wear old clothes when you take on the task of painting your ceiling or walls as they might not be the same ever again.
• Enjoyment is the key to success, so instead of dreading this important task – try enjoying it as it will give you a great sense op accomplishment.

Also read our article on the Dulux PaindPod and how this nifty device makes painting  your ceiling a breeze.

Remember: To remove and re-do a ceiling creates a huge mess, so install it correct the first time or have it installed by a professional. The same goes as far as painting your ceiling is concerned as a ceiling that is not painted properly can cause a lot of frustration.