Installing Suspended Ceiling Systems

THOUGH THE INSTALLATION OF SUSPENDED CEILINGS IN HISTORIC BUILDINGS IS NOT IN GENERAL CONFORMANCE WITH THE SECRETARY OF THE INTERIOR’S GUIDELINES, IT IS A COMMON PRACTICE IN MANY GSA BUILDINGS. THIS TYPE OF WORK SHOULD ONLY BE PERFORMED IN A MANNER WHICH IS FULLY REVERSIBLE AND CAUSES MINIMAL DAMAGE TO THE EXISTING HISTORIC FABRIC.

PART 1–GENERAL

1.01 SUMMARY

1. This procedure includes guidance on installing a suspended ceiling system to support various types of ceiling panels.
2. See 01100-07-S for general project guidelines to be used along with this procedure. These guidelines cover the following sections:
   1. Historic Structures Precautions
   2. Submittals
   3. Quality Assurance
   4. Delivery, Storage and Handling
   5. Project/Site Conditions
   6. Sequencing and Scheduling
   7. General Protection (Surface and Surrounding)

These guidelines should be reviewed prior to performing this procedure and should be followed along with recommendations from the Regional Historic Preservation Officer (RHPO).

1.02 SUBMITTALS

1. Product Data: For information only, submit two copies of manufacturer’s product specifications and installation instructions for panels and for suspension system, including certified laboratory test reports and other data as required to show compliance with the specifications. Distribute one additional copy of each installation instruction to installer. Submit 2 copies of manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning ceiling including precautions against materials and methods which may be detrimental to finish.
2. Shop Drawings: Submit shop drawings indicating appropriate methods for attaching to historic materials and finishes.
3. Samples: Submit 3 sets of 12” square samples. In each set of samples show the full range of exposed color and texture to be expected in the completed work.
4. Design Data/Test Reports/Certificates: Submit certificate from manufacturer that material and finish meet specified requirements.

1.03 PROJECT/SITE CONDITIONS

1. Space Enclosure: Do not install ceiling until space has been enclosed and is weather-tight and until work above the ceiling has been completed and until satisfactory conditions of temperature and humidity will be continuously maintained.

PART 2–PRODUCTS

2.01 MATERIALS

1. Ceiling Panels: Type, size and color as directed and approved by RHPO. Provide panels with formed edges appropriate for specified mounting method and meeting all specified requirements.
2. Suspension System:
   1. Comply with ASTM C635, Heavy Duty unless more stringent requirements are specified herein.
   2. General: Provide heavy duty grid, direct hung, intermediate duty system consisting of 1-1/2” x 3/4” channels @ 4’-0” o.c. each way, hung from or attached to structure, cross tees, and other components necessary for a complete installation including (as applicable for conditions) inserts, anchors, hangers, edge moldings, trim, clips, springs and other required accessories or as shown on the drawings.
   3. Where ceiling panels abutt walls, beams or other surfaces or as detailed, provide finish channel wall molding in not less than 16 gauge (.05”) - finished as specified for panels.
   4. At light fixtures, diffusers or other interruptions of the ceiling where panel edges might otherwise be exposed, provide edge trim as required for neat finished appearance.
   5. Detail suspended ceiling to preserve exterior appearance of window. Keep dropped ceiling a minimum of 3 feet back from window. Do not allow suspended ceiling height to encroach more than 12” on top of window height.

PART 3–EXECUTION

3.01 EXAMINATION

1. Verification of Conditions: Examine each space and verify that existing historic features and equipment installed above the ceiling will not conflict with ceiling installation of access. Notify the Contractor in writing of any unsatisfactory conditions. Do not proceed with the work until conditions have been corrected. Commencement of ceiling installation shall indicate acceptance of condition of area.

3.02 PREPARATION

1. Planning: Unless otherwise shown, plan each layout to balance border widths at opposite edges of each ceiling area. Avoid use of ceiling plans wherever possible. Consult the RHPO for resolution of conflicts or where deviation from the reflected ceiling plans is necessary.
   1. Plan installation of ceiling supports to minimize damage to historic materials. Include protection of character defining elements.
2. Hanger Supports and Inserts: Where cast-in-place concrete is indicated to support ceiling, furnish required inserts at the commencement of formwork. As placement of concrete or metal deck (as applicable) progresses, verify that hanger supports are properly located and secured.
   1. Protect historic finishes and elements when installing suspension system. If alterations of historic materials and finishes are required, work shall be reversible and cause minimal damage. Character defining or ornamental elements shall not be altered.

3.03 ERECTION, INSTALLATION, APPLICATION

NOTE: Install materials in accordance with manufacturer’s printed instructions, and to comply with governing regulations, fire resistance rating requirements as indicated and industry standards applicable to the work.

1. Install suspension system in accordance with applicable provisions of ASTM C636 except to the extent that more stringent requirements are indicated or required for compliance with governing regulations or fire resistance ratings. Suspend ceiling hangers from building structural members only. As the work progresses verify compliance with all tolerances specified in ASTM C636.

   NOTE: PLAN INSTALLATION OF CEILING SUPPORTS SO AS TO MINIMIZE DAMAGE TO HISTORIC MATERIALS AND FINISHES.

2. Installing Ceiling Panels:
   1. Install panels, in coordination with suspension system, with edges concealed by flanges of supporting members.
   2. Install hold-down clips as recommended by panel manufacturer as indicated or required.
   3. Install moldings and trim as specified as work progresses. Miter corners accurately to provide hairline joints.
   4. Scribe and cut panels for accurate fit at borders and at interruptions and penetrations by other work through the ceilings.

3.04 ADJUSTING/CLEANING

1. Following completion of work, verify that panels are properly seated with no cracks between panels and suspension flanges. Replace scratched or bent panels. Clean dirty panels in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
2. After 30 days, inspect the installation and clean, adjust or replace any missing or defective work.