With their typical bland colors and limited materials palette, one would assume that not much thought is given to selecting the workman-like coverings for walls and ceilings in restaurant kitchens— and it’s easy to see why it might appear that way: If no one is going to see it, does it really matter what goes on them? “Kitchen walls, even though they’re out of the public eye,” says Robert Doland of Jacobs Doland Foodservice Consultants, “still need to perform to a high functional standard. Durability, cleanability, and low-maintenance are the driving decision makers.”
Standard wall construction for restaurant kitchens should be water-resistant gypsum board (commonly called “green board” for the color) over a metal stud wall. Green board is the material of choice because of the moisture protection it offers in wet environments, like kitchen prep areas. For areas with even higher exposure to moisture, consider using cement board, which is heavier and more expensive than green board but offers better protection for wet areas. Both green board and cement board are excellent substrate for wall finishes such as tile or FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Panels.) Albert Penna, of DNA Architects, says that, “Properly installed tile or FRP helps protect walls from the elements (grease, water, pests) throughout the operation of a commercial kitchen.” In addition, says Penna, “All walls need to meet health department requirements—a hard, light-colored, easily cleanable surface,” which both tile and FRP provide.
Wall construction is always going to be governed by jurisdictional codes regarding fire ratings—the duration of time which a wall can withstand a fire test. Walls that separate the kitchen from other spaces, like the dining room or access corridors and entryways, have to maintain a minimum fire rating so that in the event of a fire, the walls keep their integrity to prevent flames from spreading to adjoining areas. Required fire ratings are usually achieved by layering approved materials and providing insulation within the wall. For example, to obtain a 2-hour fire rating (which is typical for most walls separating kitchens from another space), the wall should have double layers of 5/8-inch- thick Type X Gypsum Board on both sides of the wall, along with 5½ inches of mineral wool insulation inside the wall. These thicker walls encroach upon the precious inches inside the kitchen, but are required for the safety of your employees and customers should an accidental fire occur. “Always check with your architects and consultants about what rating is required for kitchen walls,” adds Penna.
For closing in the space from above, similar rules apply to kitchen ceilings. Materials should be light-colored and easily cleanable, and “need to provide light to the workspace and sanitary protection from above,” notes Doland. One of the most cost-efficient and quick ways of doing so is by installing a drop ceiling of vinyl-coated ceiling tile in a heavy-duty grid. Typical dimensions for ceiling tiles are 2-feet square. The advantages of a drop ceiling, says Penna, is that “it’s easy to work around obstacles in the ceiling (columns, light fixtures, access points, utility connections, etc.) and it provides a cleanable surface and an even seam design.” Ceilings can also be constructed out of painted gypsum board, but Penna and Doland caution against this. “Access to above-ceiling elements is not simple and repairs, which may be needed from time to time, are difficult,” Penna contends. Doland adds that light fixtures become difficult to install without surface mounting them, and that creates more places for dirt and grease to collect. With a drop ceiling, damaged tiles can just be popped out and replaced, and light fixtures are easily integrated into the ceiling grid.
WALL FINISHES AT A GLANCE |
Material | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
Tile | Ceramic or glass tile, light-colored with
epoxy grout | Seamless installation; easily cleanable; durable | Can be expensive |
FRP | Fiberglass Reinforced Panels—available in smooth or textured finishes in 48-in. panels | Cost effective; variety of color choices | Trim strips at joints between panels don’t provide complete smooth surface |
Stainless steel panels | Thin steel panels, up to 48-in. wide applied directly to wall system. Usually applied only to cooking lines and butchering rooms | Extremely durable and protective in high-heat, high-grease areas | Expensive; difficult to
maintain |
Epoxy paint or scrub-able painted surface | Durable paint for use in low contact areas, like prep areas and storage rooms | Least costly surface;
easily cleaned | Least durable |
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FAQs
Using paint is an easy way to customize your basem*nt ceiling without spending too much money. Paint can cover unsightly features and create the illusion of a bigger space.
How to redo a ceiling cheaply? ›
Below are 15 of our favorite ceiling makeover projects that only look expensive.
- 01 of 15. Add Molding to the Ceiling. ...
- 02 of 15. Don't Forget About Wallpaper. ...
- 03 of 15. Drape Some Fabric. ...
- 04 of 15. Paint a Mural. ...
- 05 of 15. Apply Some Decals. ...
- 06 of 15. Cozy Up With Wood. ...
- 07 of 15. Go Glam With Tulle. ...
- 08 of 15. Grab Some Cool Tiles.
Your budget will significantly impact your choice of ceiling design. Some options, like coffered ceilings, are more expensive due to the intricate work and materials involved. On the other hand, options like painted drywall or drop ceilings are more cost-effective.
What is the best ceiling paint to cover up? ›
Zinsser Ceiling Pro 5-In-1
Their Zinsser Ceiling Pro 5-IN-1 emulsion paint seals stains, primes, finishes & bridges hairline cracks all in one product. It also crucially contains a biocide that provides protection from fungal degradation, helping to keep ceilings clean and stain free.
How do you cover up a bad drywall job on a ceiling? ›
Matte paint is the best option for hiding any imperfections that may have occurred during the drywall finishing process. If matte paint isn't available for you, try using a darker shade of paint. The darker colour will limit the light reflection in the room, so the seam isn't so apparent.
Is there a thick paint to cover bad ceilings? ›
Some ceiling paint is thicker and will adhere better without dripping. One coat of ceiling paint should be thick enough to cover the ceiling's imperfections. Some manufacturers have developed a thinner paint just for acoustic ceiling tile, so the paint does not plug the holes.
How to make an old ceiling look better? ›
Just Replacing Panels
Simply remove damaged panels from existing grid and replace with the appropriate size panel(s) that match. With a wide selection of suspended ceiling panels, you can match to random patterns, fissured panels in black or white, smooth looks, and much more.
What is the best non drywall ceiling option? ›
PVC panels are one of the most efficient lightweight drywall alternatives. These panels are non-reactive to water or moisture. The vinyl sheets are 100% water-resistant so they do not allow any moisture to settle on the surface of the panels.
Is there a cheaper alternative to drywall? ›
But when it comes to inexpensive materials, plywood is a great choice. Installation is super easy, especially if you have a licensed contractor by your side to help you with all the nuances of the process. Because it is a lighter material than others, Plywood requires fewer screws which means less work.
What is the best lightweight ceiling material? ›
PVC ceiling panels like Trusscore Wall&CeilingBoard is a better alternative to drywall on ceilings for several reasons, including: They're lightweight and easy to install. An eight-foot length Trusscore Wall&CeilingBoard panel weighs less than eight pounds, which is 40% less than drywall.
How much does it cost for a false ceiling?
| Gypsum Ceiling | Price Range | Cost for 2 BHK |
|---|
| Ceiling Wiring | ₹10 to ₹20 per sq.ft | ₹8,500 to ₹17,000 |
| Ceiling Lighting | ₹40 to ₹60 per sq.ft | ₹34,000 to ₹51,000 |
| Ceiling Painting | ₹20 to ₹40 per sq.ft | ₹17,000 to ₹34,000 |
| Complete Package | ₹120 to ₹200 per sq.ft | ₹102,000 to ₹170,000 |
1 more rowIn terms of drop ceiling versus drywall costs, drywall costs less overall.
How much does a new ceiling cost? ›
How much does it cost to replace a ceiling? The cost to fully replace a ceiling can vary widely, with a small room costing between £400 to £600 and a large room between £750 to £1000. If you are skilled in DIY and are confident in your ability to do everything but the plastering, this will save you around £250.
How can I make my exposed ceiling look better? ›
To match the open ceilings in your study room, you can pick furniture and decorations that have an industrial or latest style. Metal desks, bookshelves, and lights can make the whole room seems better. Using colors like white, black, or gray and materials like wood or concrete can make everything nice together.
What material to use for an outdoor ceiling? ›
Whether you're renovating your porch, or putting in a new three-season porch, you need a ceiling material that will look great and will perform well no matter what the weather. Waterproof beadboard paneling made of fiber cement meets both of these criteria.
How to cover a popcorn ceiling cheaply? ›
Skim Coating
Skim-coating is a method to cover a popcorn ceiling inexpensively. The technique involves using a diluted joint compound or drywall mud applied with a trowel or drywall knife to give you an even surface. Once complete, you should have a flat, uniform ceiling for primer and paint.
What can I use to touch up my ceiling? ›
Any touch-up areas will benefit from primer, especially if there are marks or stains on your ceiling. Primer is a base coat that will help the paint better adhere to your ceiling, delivering the smooth finish you need.
