One of the most inexpensive ceiling options, drywall, is also the most commonly used ceiling material on the market today. Drywall on your ceiling is installed in basically the same manner as drywall on your walls. However, if you plan to install your ceiling yourself, be aware that ceiling drywall can be heavy and installation is usually at least a two-person job. Drywall can be painted as soon as it's installed.
If a more contemporary or rustic look is what you want in a ceiling, try installing planks to cover your joists. Typically lighter weight than a large sheet of drywall, planks come in both wood and laminate varieties in a range of colors and usually click together to form your ceiling. Although special ceiling wood planks and laminates are available, wood and laminate flooring options may be used to create the same effect.
Depending on the width and area between the beams, special ceiling tiles or panels may be used to cover your ceiling joists. Ceiling tiles, often used in drop-down ceilings, usually attach to a grid that holds them in place. Ceiling panels, which are larger than tiles, are also available in sizes that may allow you to attach them directly to the beams to create a full ceiling, depending on the area between your beams. Available in a wide range of colors, materials and designs, both ceiling tiles and ceiling panels can be purchased at your local home improvement store.
