How to design a false ceiling using an architectural BIM design software

See how to model a false ceiling structure with a BIM software. What are the various types, definitions and advantages offered by a false ceiling

False ceiling is a type of building element consisting of a flat lightweight surface mechanically connected to the intrados of a ceiling.
False ceiling can be adopted for many purposes:

Aesthetic purposes: to enhance the aspect of a building (to correct the dimensions of a room) and hide some imperfections such as beams.
Environmental purposes: to ensure energetic/acoustic comfort and improve safety when using thermal and/or acoustic insulation, and fire-resistant materials.
Functional purposes: the space between the ceiling and the false ceiling can be used to place spot lights, strip LEDs or electrical system cables and ducting together with anti-intrusion sensors.

Different types of false ceilings

In relation to their purpose, false ceilings can be:

Drop down ceilings only for aesthetic, acoustic or thermal insulation requirements. Usually composed of plasterboard, an easy to model material and suitable for aesthetic and decoration solutions.

Drop down ceiling

Concealed with removable inspection panels allows to operate at any time and ensure easy maintenance. In fact, if we decide to install an air-conditioning system, smoke detector devices or other fire prevention systems, this kind of solution becomes a very flexible means for installing ducting and cables simplifying maintenance interventions too. Inspection paneling, used for suspended ceilings, usually consist of a steel or aluminum metallic structure anchored to the floor slab with rods to form a grid. The panels are clipped in to the structure.

Concealed ceiling with removable inspection panels

In some cases we can opt for exposed or lay-in grid ceilings, laminated or caisson ceilings. The materials used are usually lightweight and satisfy sound absorption and thermal insulating requirements. If the false ceiling also needs to cover an aesthetic function, heavier materials (such as plasterboard) can be used.

What are the advantages:

The realization of a false ceiling ensures:

Internal sound proofing (reducing the noise inside the environments)
External sound proofing (reducing external noise)
Respect of all the safety standards and technical functions, fire resistance, etc.
Moisture resistance
Improvement of comfort and the usability of the internal environments

How to easily design false ceilings with a BIM software

Edificius, the bim architecture software design allows the user to design a false ceiling (multiple-surface, inclined and vertical) thanks to a specific editor with specific objects and functions.

Thanks to the software’s automatic modelling features, different kinds of surfaces (exposed grids and panel surfaces) and dimensions.

Moreover, it allows to design: