Ceiling Borders - Panels

Tip 19: Figuring borders on scored panels or panels with 12" x 12" patterns

To make the job look as good as it can, it is important to make even and equal borders. The key to making the borders look their best is to remember the "look" of the panels. They look like 12" x 12" tile. Therefore, calculate borders like 12" x 12" tile. Here is an example.

If the room measures 16'6" x 24'4", the correct borders for 2' x 2' panels would be 15" on two sides and 14" on the other two sides. But with the scoring or pattern on the panels, it would look like a three-inch 12" x 12" border on two sides and a two-inch 12" x 12" border on the other two sides.

Take the 16'6" dimension. Calculate the border for 12" x 12" tile. It would be 9". The size of the 2' x 2' border panel would then be the 9" plus 12", or 21". The grid should be laid out using the 21" dimension in one direction.

Take the 24'4" dimension. Calculate the border for 12" x 12" tile. It would be 8". The size of the 2' x 2' border panel would then be the 8" plus 12" or 20". The grid should be laid out using the 20" dimension in the other direction. Bear in mind that when you lay out the grid this way, the grid may not be centered in the room. The look of 12" x 12" tile, however, will be centered with maximized borders. If the scored or patterned panels are removed later and plain or textured panels are used for replacement, the grid may not be centered, and the borders of the new panels may not be seen.

Tip 20: Cutting "recessed grid" ceiling border panels

1. Trim reveal edge border panels to the same dimensions as for flat panels. The reveal edge detail must now be cut into the panel.

2. Set the panel into the grid. Draw a light pencil line on the panel using the wall molding as a guide.

3. Remove the panel. Use a sharp utility knife and straightedge to cut halfway through the panel from the face side along the pencil line.

4. Lay the utility knife on its side next to the panel and, with the panel face up, cut in at blade height for a reveal cut.

5. Remove the cut strip.

6. Fit the panel into the grid.
Tip 21: Cutting reveal edge border panels for crown molding

When using a crown molding at the perimeter of a suspended ceiling with reveal edge panels, you can get "mouse hole" gaps. These holes are created when the tegular panel lays on the molding. To eliminate these holes, cut a normal reveal edge at the panel/molding interface-the same cut made when using angle molding. The reveal edge drops in front of the crown molding, and the grid lays directly on the crown molding, eliminating any gaps.

In most cases, the cut reveal edge will not readily be seen and does not need to be painted. If the cut edge is visible, the tegular edge should be painted to match the face of the panel.