A ceiling grid is a frame that is used to support a suspended ceiling system. The grid is made up of main tees and cross tees that interlock and are suspended from the structure above by a hanger wire.
Main tees are installed perpendicular to the joists or furring strips, while cross tees are installed parallel to the joists or furring strips. An Armstrong ceiling grid can be installed in two different ways: the exposed tee method and the mechanical grip method.
The Exposed Tee Method
The first step in the exposed tee method is to install the main tees. To do this, you will need to measure the length of the room and mark out where the main tees will go. Once you have marked the spots for the main tees, you will need to cut them to size.
You will then need to attach them to the structure above using a hanger wire. Be sure to use enough hanger wire so that the main tee is level. After the main tees are installed, it’s time to install the cross tees.
Start by measuring and cutting the cross tees to size. Once they are cut, dry fit them into place and check for levelness. If they are not level, adjust accordingly. Once they are level, attach them to the main tees using screws or nails.
The final step is to install your ceiling panels. Start at one end of the room and work your way across, attaching each panel to the cross tee with screws or nails. Be sure to check for levelness as you go along so that your panels are evenly spaced and symmetrical looking when you’re finished.
The Mechanical Grip Method
If you’re installing an Armstrong ceiling grid in a room with an existing suspended ceiling, you can use the mechanical grip method instead of the exposed tee method outlined above.
To begin, start at one end of the room and remove a panel from one of the existing main tees using a screwdriver or similar tool. Once you have removed a panel, take the mechanical grip connector and slip it over one of the flanges on the tee.
Secure it in place with screws or nails and then repeat this process on all of the other main tees in the room until all of the panels have been removed from the existing main tees.
Now it’s time to get started on installing your new ceiling panels! Begin by slipping a connector over one of the flanges on the main tee and attaching it in place with screws or nails.
The mechanical method can save a lot of time when compared to the exposed tee method because you don’t have to cut any new pieces or install them—you can just reuse what’s already there! This is especially helpful when working in large areas or when time is limited.