Are you looking to add some character and charm to your ceiling?
Wainscoting, traditionally used on walls, can also be installed on ceilings for a unique and stylish look.
With a few tools and some patience, you can transform your plain ceiling into a stunning focal point.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of installing wainscoting on your ceiling, including locating the joists, preparing the planks, and choosing the right installation method.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, this guide will help you achieve a professional-looking finish that will impress anyone who enters your home.
So let’s get started!
How To Install Wainscoting On Ceiling
Step 1: Locate the Joists
The first step in installing wainscoting on your ceiling is to locate the joists. You can use a stud finder to do this. Once you’ve located the joists, mark each one with a spirit level and pencil.
Step 2: Cut Furring Strips
Next, cut furring strips to size using a table saw. Place each furring strip along the ceiling perpendicular to its corresponding joist. Attach the furring strip by drilling drywall screws through the strips and into the joists.
Step 3: Prepare the Planks
Unpack the planks in the room where they will be installed at least 2-3 days prior to the project to allow the material to adjust to the relative humidity in the space where it will be installed. To prevent wet floors from damaging the planks, install a piece of 3/8″ thick lath on the wall at the floor, so the bottom of the planks can butt against the top of the lath.
Step 4: Choose Your Installation Method
There are several installation methods available for wainscoting on ceilings. One popular method is using Armstrong’s WoodHaven Beadboard, which installs with special clips that attach directly to furring strips or joists without the need to blind nail each plank. The beadboard planks then slide right into the clips, which do not show from beneath. Installing each row of planks is a simple matter of attaching the clips and then sliding the planks into place.
Another installation method is attaching special tracks to the ceiling and then attaching clips to the tracks before sliding the planks in place. The third, highly innovative way to install WoodHaven Beadboard is to attach it to the grid of an existing dropped ceiling.
Step 5: Install Your Wainscoting
Once you’ve chosen your installation method, it’s time to install your wainscoting. Begin by attaching your first plank to the furring strip or clip. Continue installing each plank until you’ve covered your entire ceiling.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once your wainscoting is installed, you can add finishing touches such as trim or paint. This will give your ceiling a polished and professional look.
Tools And Materials Needed
To install wainscoting on your ceiling, you will need the following tools and materials:
– Stud finder
– Spirit level
– Pencil
– Table saw
– Drywall screws
– Furring strips
– Wood planks (such as Armstrong’s WoodHaven Beadboard)
– Clips or tracks (depending on your chosen installation method)
– Lath (thin, flat strip of wood)
– Nail gun (if using thicker trim)
– 1 1/2-inch finishing nails (if using thicker trim)
– Wood filler
– Latex caulk
– Sandpaper
– Primer
– Paint
Make sure to have all the necessary tools and materials before starting the project to ensure a smooth and efficient installation process.
Locating The Joists
Locating the joists is a crucial step in installing wainscoting on your ceiling. To do this, you can use a stud finder to locate the position of each joist. Once you’ve found them, mark each joist with a spirit level and pencil.
After marking each joist, it’s time to cut the furring strips to size using a table saw. These strips will be placed along the ceiling perpendicular to their corresponding joist. Attach the furring strip by drilling drywall screws through the strips and into the joists. This will ensure that your wainscoting is securely attached to the ceiling.
It’s important to note that there are several installation methods available for wainscoting on ceilings. One popular method is using Armstrong’s WoodHaven Beadboard, which installs with special clips that attach directly to furring strips or joists without the need to blind nail each plank. The beadboard planks then slide right into the clips, which do not show from beneath.
Another installation method is attaching special tracks to the ceiling and then attaching clips to the tracks before sliding the planks in place. The third, highly innovative way to install WoodHaven Beadboard is to attach it to the grid of an existing dropped ceiling.
Once you’ve chosen your installation method and installed your wainscoting, you can add finishing touches such as trim or paint. This will give your ceiling a polished and professional look.
Preparing The Ceiling And Planks
Before installing wainscoting on your ceiling, it’s important to properly prepare both the ceiling and the planks. This will ensure that your wainscoting looks great and lasts for years to come.
To prepare the ceiling, start by locating the joists using a stud finder. Once you’ve found the joists, mark each one with a spirit level and pencil. Next, cut furring strips to size using a table saw. Place each furring strip along the ceiling perpendicular to its corresponding joist. Attach the furring strip by drilling drywall screws through the strips and into the joists.
Now it’s time to prepare the planks. Unpack the planks in the room where they will be installed at least 2-3 days prior to the project to allow the material to adjust to the relative humidity in the space where it will be installed. This will prevent warping or other issues caused by changes in humidity.
To prevent wet floors from damaging the planks, install a piece of 3/8″ thick lath on the wall at the floor, so the bottom of the planks can butt against the top of the lath. This will also help ensure that your planks are level and properly aligned.
Once your ceiling and planks are prepared, you can choose your installation method and begin installing your wainscoting. Whether you choose to use special clips, tracks, or an existing dropped ceiling grid, following these preparation steps will help ensure a successful installation.
Choosing The Right Installation Method
Choosing the right installation method for your wainscoting on ceiling project is crucial to ensure a successful and long-lasting installation. As mentioned earlier, there are several methods available, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy installation, Armstrong’s WoodHaven Beadboard with special clips is a great option. This method eliminates the need to blind nail each plank, making the installation process much faster. The clips also attach directly to furring strips or joists, which means that you don’t need to install any additional tracks or grids.
Another method is attaching special tracks to the ceiling and then attaching clips to the tracks before sliding the planks in place. This method requires a bit more work than the first one, but it can be a good option if you want to have more control over the spacing between each plank.
The third method is highly innovative and involves attaching the WoodHaven Beadboard to the grid of an existing dropped ceiling. This method can be a great way to update an old and outdated ceiling without having to tear it down and start from scratch.
Ultimately, the right installation method for your wainscoting on ceiling project will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and skill level. It’s important to do your research and choose the method that will work best for your specific project.
Finishing Touches And Maintenance Tips
After installing wainscoting on your ceiling, there are a few finishing touches you can add to give it a more polished look. One option is to add trim around the edges of the wainscoting. This will not only hide any gaps between the planks but also provide a more decorative finish. You can use a variety of trim styles and finishes to match your decor.
Another option is to paint your wainscoting. If you choose to paint, make sure to use a primer first to ensure that the paint adheres properly. You can also consider using a semi-gloss or high-gloss paint finish for easy cleaning and maintenance.
To keep your wainscoting looking its best, it’s important to perform regular maintenance. Dust and clean it regularly using a soft cloth or vacuum with a brush attachment. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface of the wainscoting.
If you notice any cracks or gaps in the wainscoting, fill them with wood filler and sand them down before painting or staining. It’s also important to keep an eye out for any signs of water damage or mold growth, which can be indicators of larger issues that need to be addressed.
Overall, with proper installation and maintenance, wainscoting on your ceiling can be a beautiful and durable addition to your home decor.