John Sayers' Recording Studio Design Forum Archive

Hi everyone.

We are trying to weigh up some options to seal off our studio space ceiling area.
At present we have a typical suspended ceiling with 1200mm x 600mm panels (I think) within a metal frame system suspended from the metal roof purling with typical 5mm galvanized rod and adjustment fittings.

The space between the metal roof and the suspended ceiling is about 800mm.

We are considering buying some more suspension rods and fittings and literally doubling the amount so we can then glue and screw 18mm plywood to the underside(studio side)of this existing ceiling.
We would use the appropriate sealing caulk between the sheets of ply and the outer perimeter so that we successfully seal off the room from the roof area.
Cost is a factor and we thought this would add some mass to the ceiling and seal off at the same time.

Below this would be 150mm rafters, fiberglass insulation and 2 x 16mm plasterboard which is the top of our studio ceiling.
So essentially we are building a room within a room. What do you think?

So you are basically talking about building a triple-leaf ceiling, but with a very large air gap to the outer leaf? That should be OK, depending on how much isolation you need.

We are considering buying some more suspension rods and fittings and literally doubling the amount so we can then glue and screw 18mm plywood to the underside(studio side)of this existing ceiling.

I wouldn't do that. suspended ceilings are not designed for that. What I would do is to take that ceiling out completely, then use proper isolation hangers to support the middle leaf. Or just build a stud frame across there! After all, that middle leaf will technically be part of the outer leaf, so just firmly attach suitable joists to the existing walls, and hang your 18mm OSB from that.

- Stuart -