Materials compared
Gypsum board gives a smooth painted finish and takes curves and coves. PVC panels are light, waterproof and quick to fit, with a plain or wood look. POP, or plaster of Paris, can be moulded into designs but is heavier and cracks more. Choose by finish, budget and humidity.
| Material | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| Gypsum board, per sq ft | PKR 230 - 380 |
| PVC ceiling panels, per sq ft | PKR 125 - 230 |
| POP ceiling, per sq ft | PKR 150 - 300 |
| Metal framing, per sq ft | PKR 40 - 90 |
| Cove and light work, per metre | PKR 400 - 1,200 |
Prices move with brand, model, size and stock. Use these ranges to judge a quote, then compare the exact model and what is included.
Structure and framing
A false ceiling uses a grid of steel channels hung from the slab on hangers, usually at 2 foot centres, with boards screwed to the grid. The grid carries only the boards and light fittings. It must never carry a fan, because the grid is not designed for the moving load.
How the fans are fixed
Each fan hangs from its own hook fixed in the real slab, with the rod passing through a clean opening in the false ceiling. Place the hooks before the grid is built and keep a clear ring around each opening, so the grid does not touch the rod. See ceiling fan brackets and false ceiling fans.
Heights and clearance
A hall ceiling should be at least nine feet after the false ceiling, with blades at least seven feet above the floor and about 10 inches below the false ceiling surface. A deep stepped design in a low hall makes it feel cramped, so keep steps shallow in a hall under 10 feet.
Wiring and access
Run the cables in conduit above the grid before the boards go on, place junction boxes where they can be reached through an access panel and label them. Plan fan, cove, spotlight and chandelier circuits separately. Fixed wiring should be done by a licensed electrician.
Building steps
- Plan. Mark fans, lights and the AC on a plan.
- Fix hooks. Fix fan hooks and light boxes in the slab.
- Frame. Hang the steel grid.
- Wire. Run conduit and cables.
- Board. Fix boards or panels.
- Finish. Tape, putty, paint and fit fans and lights.
Gypsum or PVC
Gypsum gives better design freedom and a seamless paint finish, but it fears leaks and takes longer. PVC resists damp and is cheaper, but offers less design and can look plain. In a hall with a dry roof, gypsum is usual; for a humid coastal home PVC is worth a look.
Mistakes to avoid
- Fan hung from the grid. It will shake and fail.
- Hooks added after the ceiling. Hard and messy.
- Too many steps. Lowers the hall.
- No access panel. Wiring becomes unreachable.
Choosing a contractor
Ask for a drawing with fan hooks marked, a written scope with materials and costs and a stage-wise payment plan. Visit while the grid is open and photograph the hooks and conduits. See our false ceiling section for more design ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gypsum board is the usual choice for design freedom and a smooth paint finish. PVC panels are cheaper and waterproof, and POP is moulded but heavier. Choose by budget, finish and humidity. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
As a guide, gypsum is about PKR 230 to 380, PVC panels about PKR 125 to 230 and POP about PKR 150 to 300, with framing about PKR 40 to 90 and cove work extra. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
No. Each fan must hang from its own hook in the real slab. The grid carries only boards and light fittings and cannot take a spinning fan. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
At least nine feet after the false ceiling, with blades at least seven feet above the floor and about 10 inches below the false ceiling surface. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
Before the grid is built, with a clear opening for each rod. Adding hooks afterwards is messy and often unsafe. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
Yes, we supply across Pakistan. Share the quantity, the size or rating and the place of use on WhatsApp. You get a written rate with the exact model, what is included and the warranty, ready to compare with any other seller. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.