Wood Ceiling Installation

Prior to Installation

Always check with local building codes and an architect prior to constructing. Follow all building codes that apply in your area. Since there are many different variables one can encounter on an installation project, it is your responsibility to test the material for suitability for your project prior to constructing. Follow all manufacturers' installation instructions for the individual products used on the project. If any building codes or manufacturers installation instructions contradict or differ from information provided by AdvantageLumber.com, contact us for written clarification prior to starting your project.

Storage and Handling:

Hardwood ceiling planks should be allowed to sit where they will be installed for 7 days prior to installation in order to get acclimated to your local temperature and humidity levels. DO NOT store the planks directly on the ground, or directly on top of a concrete surface. DO NOT store the material for more than 30 days prior to use without first consulting with a sales rep at advantagelumber.com that your storage conditions are optimal. The planks should be elevated at least 12" off the ground during acclimation. To ensure the bottom boards are well ventilated, place the decking on top of blocks of wood. DO NOT cover ceiling material with plastic or a tarp during this acclimation period. Covering with a tarp/plastic will trap moisture in and cause stability issues. Covering the top of the pile with a sheet of plywood to shed the water is recommended. Keep material dry until installation. Also keep stickers (or wood shims) between layers of boards to allow proper air flow (see image below). DO NOT store the material in a garage or any other enclosed area.

How to Install Wood Ceiling Planks

Every project is unique. To ensure your ceiling installation goes smoothly and is long-lasting, we've provided a set of general guidelines to help you. Remember, these are guidelines only. Please consult your local building codes, or a professional ceiling installer in your area. Consulting your local building department or HOA prior to starting renovations to either a residential or commercial building should be a required step prior to installation. If you have any questions about this How-To Install Wood Ceiling guide, give us a call. We'd love to help.

Wood Ceiling Installation Pictures

Wood Ceiling Installation Guide

V-groove wood ceiling planks will need to be installed directly on top of the ceiling joists as the material will need cross ventilation above it. For installation we suggest that you pre drill a hole on a 45-degree angle where the tongue and the face meet; you will see a slight v-groove in this corner. Then, on that same 45-degree angle, drive a trim head screw through the pre drilled hole, through the ceiling plank into the joist. We carry a large variety of stainless steel trim head screws that are perfect for this application. The trim head screws are required because the head will sink into the corner where the v-groove is. This sinking action will allow the next ceiling plank to slide into place and will perfectly conceal the previously installed screw head.

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Allowable Shrinkage:

When installing a wood ceiling, install each board as tightly as possible to leave the smallest gaps between them in case shrinkage occurs. Average shrinkage is 1/8” on 4” wide boards and ¼” on 6” wide boards. Shrinkage varies depending on climate, installation site, and method of use.

Finishing:

Because of Exotic Hardwood's natural density and alkaline characteristics, many oil and water based finishes will not dry properly when applied. We recommend that you test any product on several sample boards to determine compatibility. The finish we sell and recommend is Ipe Oil™. We do not recommend the use of other finishes. Applying a finish approximately every two years (depending upon your local climate) can help keep the beautiful dark brown color. If you decide to let your ceiling weather, it will turn a silvery gray similar to teak. We recommend that you apply a coat of finish initially after ceiling installation, regardless of the final color desired. This can help ensure that the wood retains its oils and stability. For low-ventilation applications, we recommend finishing ceiling planks on all four sides prior to installation but after acclimation.

Conclusion:

If you have any questions, contact us for written clarification prior to starting your project.

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