Exposed Grid

Cover: Hillcrest Hospital, Durban

This page: Engineering Department, University of Pretoria

Design
Gyprocs exposed grid ceilings
Gyproc SAs range of acoustic ceiling systems provide amongst the most versatile design and aesthetic options in the market, whilst
incorporating the unique environmental properties of natural gypsum. Our systems help to provide balanced solutions for projects where
acoustic control is a consideration.
The range of ceiling tiles systems includes a wider choice than ever, from the popular vinyl-faced Gyprex range to SoundLite, designed to
enhance even the most demanding interior environment.

Accoustic Performance
Ceiling boards are perforated and designed to absorb sound when used in conjunction with airspace behind the ceiling. Increased levels of
sound absorption can be achieved by including insulation over the back of the ceiling.
Where sound insulation room to room is required, high sound attenuation can be achieved by the inclusion of fibreglass insulation over
the back of the ceiling according to regional requirements. Alternatively, other design considerations should be adopted such as extending
adjoining partitions into the plenum void or installing a plenum barrier.

Sound Insulation

Noise source from above slab

Noise source from adjoining room

Noise source from ceiling void

General Information
Maximum spans of suspension on main tee
Manufacturers tee shall suspend at a maximum of 1200mm apart.
For specialised spans contact the manufacturer for details.
Junction between perimeter trims and ceiling grid
When junctions are further than 400mm apart, an additional suspension point should be added in.
Perimeter trims - standard suspended ceilings:
Perimeter trims for suspended ceilings can be the L-shape or the shadow line type (stepped).
Perimeter trims - flush plaster suspended ceilings:
Galvanised angle or a plaster trim/shadow line type is used to create a shadow line which minimises building imperfections.
The perimeter trims are measured as an independent item in bills of quantity, as no two areas will necessarily yield the same usage of trims.
Tee systems
Recommendations for the suspension of tee systems
Subject to loading detail, suspension should not exceed 1200mm centres.

The suspension must not be out of plumb (vertical) more than 25mm for each 150mm of plenum depth and in no case should exceed
500mm to a 3000mm depth.

Whenever the above is exceeded and/or when the hanger suspension is more than 2000mm long, then a sub grid is recommended.

In no case should suspension be from other services in the ceiling void.

A hanger suspension point within 400mm from the wall angle or shadow moulding must be installed on main tees and cross tees.

Two steel pop rivets with a shear strength three times that of the maximum allowed ceiling load is to be used.

When securing wire to tee, it should be wound tightly around itself at least three times.

Should the ceiling mass exceed 20kg/m2, a sub grid is required and a consulting engineer should recommend suitable suspension.

Ceiling Grid Tee Loading

Note: The tee loading results shown in this document are maximum loads allowable to remain within deflection of 1/360 of the span. For further
details and confirmation of technical details contact your nearest Saint-Gobain Gyproc Office, or call 0860 27 28 29 for technical support.

Maximum loading (Kgs/m2 ) under common grid configuration

MAIN TEE
MAIN
MAIN
MAIN
TEE
TEE
TEE
MAIN TEE
MAIN TEE

Light fitting support

- main tee to main tee

LIGHT FITTING
LIGHT
LIGHT
FITTING
FITTING
LIGHT FITTING
LIGHT FITTING
LIGHT
FITTING

CROSS CROSS
TEE CROSS
TEE CROSS
TEE
CROSS
CROSS
TEE
TEE
TEE

MAIN TEE
MAIN TEE
MAINMAIN
TEE
MAIN
MAIN
TEE
TEE
TEE

FITTING
LIGHT FITTING
LIGHTLIGHT
FITTING
LIGHT
LIGHT
FITTING
FITTING
FITTING
120012001200
1200
1200
1200
1200
12001200
1200
1200
1200
1200
12001200
1200
1200
1200
1200
12001200LIGHT
1200
1200
1500
1200
1500
1500
1500
1500
1500
1500
150015001500
1500
1500

CROSSCROSS
TEE CROSS
TEE CROSS
CROSS
TEE
CROSS
TEE
TEE
TEE

Light Fitting
DX T38
Main Tee

600 x 1200
15kg/m2

600 x 1200

300 x 1200

MAIN TEES
MAIN TEES
MAIN TEES
MAIN
MAIN
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES

14kg/m2

15kg/m2

300 x 1200

600 x 1500

500 x 1500

LIGHT FITTING
LIGHT FITTING
LIGHT FITTING
LIGHT
LIGHT
LIGHT
FITTING
FITTING
FITTING

14kg/m2

12kg/m2

14kg/m2

1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
12001200
1200
1200
1200
1200
12001200
1200
1200
1200
1200
12001200
1200
1200
1200
150015001500
1500
1500
1500
150015001500
1500
1500
1500
CROSS CROSS
TEES CROSS
TEES
CROSS
TEES
CROSS
CROSS
TEES
TEES
TEES
Note: T38
cross
tees
perpendicular
to
main tees.
o dots indicate
hanger
location at 1200mm
centres along
main tee.

TEES
MAIN
TEES
MAIN
MAIN
TEES
MAIN
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES
12001200MAIN
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
12001200
1200
1200
1200
150015001500
1500
1500
1500
1500
1500
1500
1500
1500
1500
15001500LIGHT
1500
1500
FITTING
LIGHT
FITTING
LIGHT
LIGHT
FITTING
LIGHT
LIGHT
FITTING
FITTING
FITTING

Light fitting support

- cross tee to cross tee

CROSSCROSS
TEES CROSS
TEESCROSS
CROSS
TEES
CROSS
TEES
TEES
TEES

MAIN TEES
MAIN TEES
MAIN TEES
MAIN
MAIN
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES

1200 CROSS
1200 CROSS
TEE
1200 CROSS
TEE
1200
1200
1200CROSS
TEE
CROSS
CROSS
TEE
TEE
TEE

120012001200
1200
1200
1200
1200
12001200
1200
1200
1200
1200
12001200
1200
1200
1200
1500
1500
150015001500
1500
1500
1500
1500
1500
15001500
1500
1500
150015001500

Light Fitting
DX T38
Main Tee

600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
600
1200 1200 1200 1200
1200
1200
CROSS CROSSCROSS CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS CROSSCROSS CROSS
CROSS
CROSS CROSS CROSSCROSS CROSS
TEES TEES TEES TEES
TEES
TEES
TEES
TEES
TEES TEES TEES TEES
TEES
TEES TEES TEES TEES TEES

600 x 1200
14kg/m2

600 x 600

600 x 1200

600 x 1200

600
600
600
600
600
600
CROSS CROSSCROSS CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
TEE
TEE
TEE
TEE
TEE
TEE

500 x 1500

500 x 1500

13kg/m
MAIN
14kg/m

14kg/m

600 17kg/m
600 600 600
600
6001200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
MAIN
TEES
MAIN 1200
TEES
MAINMAIN
TEES
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES
12001200
CROSS
12001200
CROSS
TEE
12001200
1200
CROSS
TEE
1200
1200
CROSS
CROSS
TEE
CROSS
TEE
TEE
TEE
2

14kg/m2

Note: T38 cross tees perpendicular to main tees and cross tees. o dots indicate hanger location at 1200mm
600
600
600 600600
600
centres along main tee.CROSS
(extra
support
on
tees
shown).
600
600 600600
600
600
600
600 600600
600
1200 1500
1200 cross
1200 1200
1200
1200 as600
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSSCROSSCROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS CROSSCROSSCROSS
TEES TEES TEESTEES
TEES
TEES
TEES TEES TEESTEES
TEES
TEES
TEES TEES TEESTEES
TEES
TEES

CROSSCROSSCROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
TEE TEE
TEE TEE
TEE
TEE

MAIN TEES
MAIN TEES
MAIN TEES
MAIN
MAIN
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES
1200
CROSS
1200 CROSS
1200 CROSS
1200
1200
1200CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
TEES TEES TEES TEES
TEES
TEES

600 specification.
600 600 600
600
600 1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200to
1200
1200
1200
1200
Installation of grid shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's
Hold1200
down
clips
must 1200
be used
hold
the tiles firmly in position.
1200 1200 1200 1200
1200
1200
CROSS CROSSCROSS CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
TEES TEES TEES TEES
TEES
TEES

Dynamic loads on ceilings

600
600
600
600
600
600
CROSS CROSSCROSS CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
TEES TEES TEES TEES
TEES
TEES

MAIN
TEES
MAIN
TEES
MAIN
MAIN
TEES
MAIN
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES
1200
CROSS
12001200
CROSS
12001200
1200
CROSS
1200
1200
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
1200
600
1200
1200
1200
600
TEES TEES TEESTEES
TEES
TEES

600 600
600
600

1200 1200 1200 1200

1200
1200
600
600
600 600600
600
Care should be taken to ensure that the fixing used for suspension
points
(especially into concrete) shouldCROSS
be
able
support
CROSSCROSSCROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSSto
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS a safety factor
TEES TEES TEESTEES
TEES
TEES TEES TEESTEES
TEES
TEES
of three times the design load of the ceiling. Suspended ceilings
are notTEES
designed to take the weights of services
personnel
walking around
on its top surface, and if this is a requirement, a separate catwalk system must be provided.
MAIN TEES
MAIN TEES
MAIN1500
TEES
MAIN
MAIN
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES
CROSS
1500
CROSS
TEES
1500 CROSS
TEES
1500
1500
1500
MAIN
CROSS
TEES
CROSS
CROSS
TEES
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES
TEES
MAIN TEES
MAIN
MAIN
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES

to remain
within
deflection
of 1/360
of 600
the
span. For further details and
Note: The tee loading results shown in this document are maximum loads allowable
1200 1200
12001200
1200
1200
1200 1200
12001200
600
1200
1200
600 600
600
600
confirmation of technical details, consult with your nearest Gyproc office or call 0860 27 28 29 for technical support.
1500 1500 1500 1500
1500
1500
CROSS CROSSCROSS CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
TEES TEES TEES TEES
TEES
TEES

500
500
500
500
500
500
CROSS CROSSCROSS CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
TEES TEES TEES TEES
TEES
TEES

1500 1500 1500 1500

1500
1500
15001500 1500 1500
1500
1500
500 500 500 500
500
500

MAIN TEES
MAIN TEES
MAINMAIN
TEES
MAIN
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES
1500
CROSS
1500
CROSS
TEES
1500 1500
CROSS
TEES
1500
1500
CROSS
MAIN
CROSS
TEES
CROSS
TEES
TEES
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES
MAINMAIN
TEES
MAIN
MAIN
TEES
TEES
TEES

1500 1500 1500 1500

1500
1500
CROSSCROSSCROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
TEES TEES TEESTEES
TEES
TEES

500
500
500 500500
500
CROSSCROSSCROSS
CROSS
CROSS
CROSS
TEES TEES TEESTEES
TEES
TEES

4
1500 1500 15001500
1500
1500
1500 1500 15001500
1500
1500
500 500 500 500
500
500

Formula to Calculate Materials

1200 X 600 Grid
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Main tees at 1200mm centres. Multiply total ceiling area x 0.232 = number of main tees.
Cross tees 1200mm long at 600mm centres. Multiply total ceiling area x 1.383 = number of cross tees.
Wall angles = total perimeter of wall divided by 3.6 = number of wall angles.
Suspension hangers at maximum 1200mm centres. Total ceiling area divided by 1.6 = number of hangers.
Gyprex tiles 1195mm x 595mm: Total ceiling area divided by 0.7 = number of tiles.

600 x 600 Grid

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Main tees 3600mm long at 1200mm centres. Multiply total ceiling area x 0.232 = number of main tees.
Cross tees 1200mm long at 600mm centres. Multiply total ceiling area x 1.383 = number of cross tees.
600mm Cross tees will equal the same amount of 1200mm Cross tees.
Wall angles = total perimeter of wall divided by 3.6 = number of wall angles.
Suspension hangers at maximum 1200mm centres. Total ceiling area divided by 1.6 = number of hangers.
Gyprex tiles 595mm x 595mm: Total ceiling area divided by 0.7 = number of tiles.

1500 x 500 Grid (special orders only)

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Main tees 3600mm long at 1500mm centres. Multiply total ceiling area x 0.191= number of main tees.
Cross tees 1500mm long at 500mm centres. Multiply total ceiling area x 1.334 = number of cross tees.
Wall angles = total perimeter of wall divided by 3.6 = number of wall angles.
Suspension hangers at maximum 1200mm centres. Total ceiling area divided by 1.6 = number of hangers.
Gyprex tiles 1495mm x 495mm: Total ceiling area divided by 0.73 = number of tiles.

NB: Above calculation will provide approximate quantities and does not allow for wastage.
Exposed Tee Systems
1. Donn T38V QRC Main Tees with Donn T38V Cross Tees.
2. Donn T38V QRC Main Tees with Donn T25V Cross Tees (for light weight tiles only).
3. Donn T37V Main Tees with Donn T32V Cross Tees.
Tools required
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Pencil
Measuring tape
Water level
Chalk line
Tin snips
Fish line
Screw gun
Utility knife

Terms you should know

Wall Angle or Wall Moulding: Refers to the L-shaped metal strips that provide a continuous finished edge around the perimeter of the
ceiling, where the ceiling meets the wall.
Main Tees: The metal, primary support member for the ceiling's weight that run from wall to wall between wall angle, in one direction. They
come in 3600mm lengths, and are hung by hanger wire from joists or other overhead supports.
Cross Tees: Snap into main tees as secondary support members to lock individual ceiling panels in place. They come in two lengths.
1200 Cross Tees: Used for 600mmx1200mm grid patterns and 600x600 grid patterns.
600 Cross Tees: Used for 600mmx600mm grid patterns.
Typical installation: this diagram below shows a 600mm X 1200mm ceiling grid layout.
Before you begin
Careful planning helps you to estimate accurately the materials required, and to eliminate time-consuming errors. Here's an easy guide to
follow in planning any space for a suspended ceiling installation.

System components
Metal products

Angle Cleat: for fixing of tees to wall.

Burgess channel: suspension

channel used to form sub-grids.

Hold down clip: mechanical fastener

that snaps over the bulb of a grid
system to hold ceiling panels in place.

SM25: Wall Angle 25mm.

Galvanised Steel Angle 20mm x 20mm

used as a hanger.

Donn QRC T25 Cross Tee: the

secondary cross beam of a
mechanical ceiling suspension
system. (used with T38 grid)

M6 Wall-angle.

Donn QRC T32 Cross Tee: the

secondary cross beam of a
mechanical ceiling suspension
system. (used with T37 main tees)

Galvanised Steel Angle 25mm x 51mm

used as a hanger.

Donn QRC T37 Main Tee: the

primary beam of a mechanical
ceiling suspension system.

Galvanised Steel Angle 38mm x 25mm

used as a hanger.

Donn QRC T38 Cross Tee: the

secondary cross beam of a
mechanical ceiling suspension
system.

Galvanised Steel Angle 25mm x 25mm

used as a hanger.

Donn QRC T38 Main Tee: the

primary beam of a mechanical
ceiling suspension system.

Suspension components will consist of a number of different items which when combined/joined or used in conjunction with
each other will create an effective suspension system. The weakest component/joint in the system will determine the breaking
point of the suspension system.
Often a substitute product will be used to suspend a ceiling grid system. The onus is on the specifier to ensure that components
which comply with minimum standards are used.
Typical standard / approved Donn components are:
Pre-stretched Galvanised Hanger Wire 2.5mm
Steel Hanger Strap 19mm
Galvanised Angle 20 x 20mm
Galvanised Angle 25 x 25mm
Galvanised Angle 50 x 25mm
NB. Subject to loading detail suspension spacing should not normally exceed 1200mm centres

FNB Building, Fairlands

Donn QRC Ceiling Grid

The standard face widths of the grid system are 25mm and 35mm. It is recommended that when specifying revealed edged tiles, check to ensure the correct
grid for that site.

Benefits
Stitched or rigidised thus will keep memory
Easy clip in installation
Convenient punch outs for easier thread-through wiring
Aligns true in large installations
Not stitched or rigidised thus will not loose memory
Cross tees are reusable manually relocated or removed
Cross tees removed by twisting no tools required
Donn grid will give you improved ceiling appearance, saves time
and money resulting in increased productivity and profits

Available in:
Donn QRC T38 and T37 exposed grid and T37K and T32K flush plastered grid.
1. T38 System (1200 x 600)
Install Donn QRC T38 (3600mm) main tees and Donn QRC T38 (1200mm) (600mm) cross tees with capping of aluminium pre-painted low
satin sheen. The main tees should be installed at 1200mm centres.
2. T37 System
Install Donn QRC T37V (3600mm) main tees and Donn QRC T32V (1200mm) (600mm) cross tees with capping of aluminium pre-painted. The
main tees should be installed at 1200mm centres.
3. Grid options

Donn QRC T37K

grid system flush
plastered

Donn QRC T37V grid

system lay-in

Donn QRC T38 grid

system lay-in grid

Donn QRC T38 grid

system shadow line

Gyprex Ceiling Tiles

Description
Gyprex ceiling tiles are manufactured from RhinoBoard with a tough washable vinyl finish bonded to the board. They are used in a lay-in
exposed tee suspended ceiling system.
Applications and surface

Shopping centres

Offices

Hospitals

Specification
Install Gyprex ceiling tiles onto a Donn QRC T37V or T38V exposed grid system.

Technical data
Dimensional tolerances:
Packaging:
Panel size:


R-Value:
Thermal conductivity:
Thickness:
Weight:

+0 - 5mm
Packed in eights face-to-face.
1195mm x 595mm Lay In
1495mm x 495mm Lay In
595mm x 595mm Lay In
0.057m2 K/W
0.21W/mK
12.5mm
10kg/m2

Notes:
Hold down clips must be used in areas susceptible to draughts as this will prevent infill boards from lifting at the edges.
To avoid damage, tiles should be lifted off, and not slid over each other.

Fissured

Porcelain

White

10

OWA Constellation
Description
Ceilings should look good - and at the same time, they must fulfil the many essential project requirements. Fire protection and sound control
should be incorporated in a simple installation. The OWA objective is to fulfil the many needs of individual projects whilst sustaining the
individual design criteria.
Applications and surface

Offices

Hotels

Shopping centres

Reception areas

Specification
OWA Premium ceiling tiles are installed onto a Donn QRC T37V or T38V exposed grid system.
Technical data
Owa Constellation SMART
NRC:
0.60
Panel size: 1195mm x 595mm
595mm x 595mm
Relative Humidity:
90%
Thickness:
14mm
Weight:
3.995kg/m2

Owa Constellation Premium

NRC:
0.70
Panel size: 1195mm x 595mm
595mm x 595mm
Relative Humidity:
95%
Thickness:
15mm
Weight:
4.895kg/m2

Notes:
Hold down clips must be used in areas susceptible to draughts as this will restrain infill boards from lifting at the edges.

11

To avoid damage, tiles should be lifted off, and not slid over each other.

OWA Futura Premium

Description
Ceilings should look good - and at the same time, they must fulfil the many essential project requirements. Fire protection and sound control
should be incorporated in a simple installation. The OWA objective is to fulfil the many needs of individual projects whilst sustaining the
individual design criteria.
Applications and surface

Offices

Hotels

Shopping centres

Reception areas

Specification
OWA Premium ceiling tiles are installed onto a Donn QRC T37V or T38V exposed grid system.
Technical data
Owa Futura Smart
NRC:
0.65
Panel size: 1195mm x 595mm
595mm x 595mm
Relative Humidity:
90%
Thickness:
14mm
Weight:
4.200kg/m2

Owa Futura Premium

NRC:
0.75
Panel size: 1195mm x 595mm
595mm x 595mm
Relative Humidity:
95%
Thickness:
15mm
Weight:
4.905kg/m2

Notes:
Hold down clips must be used in areas susceptible to draughts as this will restrain infill boards from lifting at the edges.

To avoid damage, tiles should be lifted off, and not slid over each other.

12

Isover SoundLite Coral Fibreglass

Description
Isover SoundLite is manufactured from non-combustible glass fibres and binders which are lightweight and resilient.
Isover SoundLite may be used in areas of high relative humidity and has exceptional sound absorption. This product also features high
thermal resistance, eliminating the need for additional ceiling insulation.
Application and surface

Offices
High humidity areas

Specification
Fix Soundlite Coral Fibreglass ceiling tiles onto a Donn QRC T37V or T38V exposed grid system.
Technical data
NRC:

Panel size:
Relative Humidity:

0.75 (40mm thick)

0.65 (25mm thick)
595mm x595mm* Lay In (*special order) 1195mm x 595mm Lay In
95%

Notes:
Hold down clips must be used in areas suseptible to draughts as this will restrain infill boards from lifting at the edges.
To avoid damage, tiles should be lifted off and not slid over each other.

13

Installing your Suspended Ceiling

Suspended ceilings installation guidelines

2
Installing your Suspended
Ceiling

Tie beams
at beams
a maximum
1200mm centres.
Step
1: Tie
at aofmaximum
of 1200mm
Scaffolding
erected.
centres. Scaffolding erected.

Choose a
ceiling
Leave
at least aheight.
100mm Leave
minimum
Step
2: height.
Choose
a ceiling
at least a
clearance
below
the
lowest
air
duct,
pipe
or
beam
allow
100mm minimum clearance belowtothe
lowest air
for installing
Then measure
andfor
mark
the
duct,ceiling
pipetiles.
or beam
to allow
installing
ceiling
desired height
at eachmeasure
room corner.
tiles. Then
and mark the desired height

at each room corner.

Step 1: Tie beams at a maximum of 1200mm

centres. Scaffolding erected.

Step 3: Using a water level or laser level transfer

the height mark (from previous step) to all
corners/walls.
Using a water level or laser level transfer the height mark
(from previous step) to all corners/walls.

Step 3: Using a water level or laser level transfer

the height mark (from previous step) to all
corners/walls.

Step 5: Install wall angles. Place the top of the

wall angle along the chalk line and screw it into
the wall. Space fasteners every 600mm
centres or closer.

wall
angles.
Place the
top the
of the
wallofangle
Step 5:Install
Install
wall
angles.
Place
top
thealong the
chalk line
andthe
screw
it intoline
the and
wall. Space
wall angle
along
chalk
screwfasteners
it into every
600mm
centres
or closer.
the wall.
Space
fasteners
every 600mm
centres or closer.

Step 2: Choose a ceiling height. Leave at least a

100mm minimum clearance below the lowest air
duct, pipe or beam to allow for installing ceiling
tiles.
4 Then measure and mark the desired height
at each room corner.

Step 4: Connect/join level markers at corners/walls

using a chalk line.
Connect/join level markers at corners/walls using a chalk line.

Step 4: Connect/join level markers at corners/walls

using a chalk line.

Step 6: Mitre both internal and external corners.

Mitre
internal
andinternal
external and
corners.
Step both
6: Mitre
both
external corners.

14

Suspended ceilings installation guidelines (cont.)

Stepposition
7: Mark
position
off main
tees. Stretch
a
off main
tees. Stretch
aStretch
string across
Step 7: Mark
Mark
offroom
main
a tothe
string position
across the
attees.
ceiling
height
locate
room atthe
ceiling
height
locate height
Mark
string across
room
at to
ceiling
totee.
locate
each main
tee.
Mark
main each
teesmain
every
1200
centres.
Step
7: Mark
position
off
main
tees.
Stretch
a
main
tees
everyceiling
1200
Set
out1200
the
ceiling
grid
each main
Mark
maincentres.
tees
every
centres.
Settee.
out
the
grid
ensuring
equal
cuts all
across
the
room
at
ceiling
height
to
locate
ensuring
equal
cuts
all
round.
Ensure
setting
out
lines
are
Set outstring
the
ceiling
grid
ensuring
equal
cuts
all
round. Ensure setting out lines are perpendicular
main
tee.
Mark
main
tees
every 1200 centres.
round. each
Ensure
setting
outother.
lines
are
perpendicular
perpendicular
to each
to each
other.
Set
out the ceiling grid ensuring equal cuts all
to each other.
round. Ensure setting out lines are perpendicular
to each other.

Step 8: Install first row of hanger straps/wire or

Install8:
first
row of
hanger
straps/wire
or
angle
along theor
Step
Install
first
row
of
hanger
straps/wire
angle
along
the
setting
out
line.
setting along
out line.the setting out line.
angle
Step 8: Install first row of hanger straps/wire or
angle along the setting out line.

Step 7: Mark
off main
tees.
Stretch
a
Step 7:position
Mark position
off
main
tees. Stretch
a
string across
room
ceiling
locate
stringthe
across
theatroom
at height
ceiling to
height
to locate
each main
Mark
main
tees
every
1200
centres.
each
main
tee.
Mark
main
tees
every
1200 centres.
9tee.
Set out Set
theout
ceiling
ensuring
equal cuts
all cuts all
the grid
ceiling
grid ensuring
equal
round. Ensure
linesout
arelines
perpendicular
round. setting
Ensure out
setting
are perpendicular
to eachto
other.
each other.

Step 8: Install
rowfirst
of hanger
straps/wire
or
Step 8:first
Install
row of hanger
straps/wire
or
angle along
setting
out line.out line.
anglethe
along
the setting

10

Step 9: Install the rest of the hanger straps from

Step 9: Install
of the
hanger straps from
settingthe
linerest
at 1200
centres.
setting line at 1200 centres.
Install9:
theInstall
rest of the
the hanger
setting
line atfrom
Step
rest ofstraps
the from
hanger
straps
setting
line at 1200 centres.
1200 centres.

Step 10: Cut hanger strap to the same level

Step 10:
to the
same level
ofCut
thehanger
fish linestrap
or laser
level.
of the fish line or laser level.
Step
10:toCut
hanger
Cut hanger
strap
the same
levelstrap
of the to
fishthe
line same level
of the fish line or laser level.
or laser level.

Step 9: Install
restthe
of the
straps from
Step 9:the
Install
resthanger
of the hanger
straps from
setting setting
line at 1200
centres.
line at
1200 centres.

Step 10:Step
Cut 10:
hanger
strap tostrap
the same
level
Cut hanger
to the
same level
of the fish
linefish
or laser
level.
of the
line or
laser level.

11
Step 11: Hanger strap cut at fish line level.
Step 11: Hanger strap cut at fish line level.

Step 11: Hanger strap cut at fish line level.

15

12
Step 12: Using two steel pop rivets, fix the hanger
totwo
the steel
web pop
of the
tee. fix the hanger
Step 12:strap
Using
rivets,
strap to the web of the tee.
Step 12: Using two steel pop rivets, fix the hanger
strap to the web of the tee.

strap cut at fish line level.

Step 11:Hanger
Hanger
strap cut
at fish
level.
Step
11: Hanger
strap
cutline
at fish
line level.

Using two steel pop rivets, fix the hanger strap to the web
Step
12:Step
Using
steel
pop
rivets,
the hanger
12:two
Using
two
steel
popfix
rivets,
fix the hanger
of the tee.
strap
tostrap
the web
of web
the tee.
to the
of the tee.

Step 13: Using one wafer Tek screw, fix the hanger
thewafer
web Tek
of the
tee.fix the hanger
Step 13:strap
Usingto
one
screw,
strap to the web of the tee.
Step 13: Using one wafer Tek screw, fix the hanger
strap to the web of the tee.

Step 14: If using wire as suspension, ensure the

wire
is looped
wound three
timesthe
around
Step 14:
If using
wire and
as suspension,
ensure
wire is itself.
looped and wound three times around
itself. Step 14: If using wire as suspension, ensure the
wire is looped and wound three times around
itself.

Step 11: Hanger strap cut at fish line level.

Step 11: Hanger strap cut at fish line level.

Step 12: Using two steel pop rivets, fix the hanger
strap to
the12:
web
of the
Step
Using
twotee.
steel pop rivets, fix the hanger
strap to the web of the tee.

13

14

Step 13:Using
Using
one
wafer
Tek screw,
fixPoint
the Screw
hanger
one
Gyproc
RhinoBoard
Sharp
13mm, fix
strap to
the
web
of the
tee.
Step
13:
Using
one
wafer
fix the hanger
the
hanger
strap
to the
web ofTek
the screw,
tee.
strap to the web of the tee.

15
ISSUE DATE: JUNE 2009
ISSUE DATE: JUNE 2009

Step
14:
If as
using
wire as
suspension,
the
If using
wire
suspension,
ensure
the wire isensure
looped and
wire
looped
wound
times around
Step
14: and
Ifaround
using
wirethree
as suspension,
ensure the
woundisthree
times
itself.
itself. wire is looped and wound three times around
itself.

16

35

15:
Install
row
cross
Step 15:Step
Install
rowfirst
of perimeter
cross tees.
Step
15:first
Install
first
row of
of perimeter
perimeter
cross tees.
tees.
Mark
cross
tees.
Stretch
string
to
Mark cross
tees.
Stretch
string aaperpendicular
to
Mark
cross
tees. a
Stretch
string perpendicular
perpendicular
to
main
tee
strings
to
mark
the
first
row
of
cross
the mainthe
tee
strings
to
mark
the
first
row
of
cross
the
main
tee
strings
to
mark
the
first
row
of
cross
Install
first
rowrow
of perimeter
cross tees.cross
Mark cross
tees.
Step
15:
Install
first
of
perimeter
tees.
tees
only.
Main
are
equipped
with
pretees only.
Main
tees
aretees
equipped
with
tees
only.
Main
tees
areto
equipped
with
preStretch
a string
perpendicular
mainpretee
strings
to
Mark
cross
tees.
Stretch
a string
perpendicular
to cross
Step
15:
Install
first
rowremaining
ofthe
perimeter
cross
tees.
punched
slots
for
aligning
the
remaining
punched
slots
for
aligning
the
remaining
cross
punched
slots
for
aligning
the
cross
mark
the
first
row
of
cross
tees
only.
Main
tees
are
equipped
the
main
tee
strings
to
mark
the
first
row
of
cross
Mark
cross
tees.
Stretch
a
string
perpendicular
to
tees.
tees. tees.
with
prepunched
slots
forto
aligning
the
cross
tees only.
Main
tees
equipped
prethe
main
tee are
strings
markwith
theremaining
first row
of tees.
cross
punchedtees
slots
for Main
aligning
only.
teesthe
areremaining
equipped cross
with pretees. punched slots for aligning the remaining cross
tees.
17

35

16:
Install
full
cross
Step 16:Step
Install
length
cross
tees.
Step
16:full
Install
full length
length
cross tees.
tees.
Install
full length
Step 16:
Installcross
fulltees.
length cross tees.

Step 16: Install full length cross tees.

18

17:
Install
perimeter
cross
tees
Step
17:
Installcross
perimeter
cross
tees
to opposite
opposite
Install
perimeter
tees totees
opposite
wall. to
Step 17:Step
Install
perimeter
cross
to opposite
wall.
wall. wall.

Step
18:
Step
18:
A fully
fully installed
installed
grid.
A fully18:
installed
grid.A
Step
A fully
installed
grid. grid.

Step 17: Install perimeter cross tees to opposite

wall. Step 17: Install perimeter cross tees to opposite
19
wall.

Step 18: A fully installed grid.

Step 18: A fully installed grid.
20

Install angle cleats to ensure straight grid and stability.

Step
19:
Install
angle
to
ensure
Step
19:angle
Installcleats
angletocleats
cleats
to straight
ensure straight
straight
Step 19:grid
Install
ensure
and
stability.
grid
and
stability.
grid and stability.

Step 19: Install angle cleats to ensure straight

19: Install angle cleats to ensure straight
grid andStep
stability.
grid and stability.

Lay-in tiles.

Step 20:
Lay-in
20:tiles.
Lay-in tiles.
tiles.
Step 20:Step
Lay-in

Step 20: Lay-in tiles.

Step 20: Lay-in tiles.

16

Glossary
Bulb
The upper ridge of the main runner or cross tee with a rectangular, triangular or round configuration. Adds structural load strength to the
component.
Cap
The rolled covering on the flange of a T-Bar. T-Bars come with an aluminium or steel cap.
Ceiling Suspension System
A system of metal members, designed to support a suspended ceiling, typically an acoustic ceiling. Also may be designed to accommodate
lighting fixtures or air diffusers.
Clips
Several clip designs are available to suit applications such as fire resistance, wind uplift and impact. Fire-resistance rated designs have exact
requirements, including the mandatory use of hold down clips for acoustical panels or tiles weighing less than 4.9 kg/m2. For rooms with
significant air pressure differential from adjacent spaces, retention clips may be necessary to retain panels in place. Maintaining air pressure
values may also require perimeter panel seals, typically a closed cell foam gasket with adhesive on one side.
Cross Runner, Cross Tee
The cross runner is the secondary or cross beam of a mechanical ceiling suspension system, usually supporting only the acoustic tile. The
cross tee is inserted into the main runner to form different module sizes. In some suspension systems, however, the cross runners also
provide support for lighting fixtures, air diffusers and other cross runners.
Deflection
Bending or deviation from a straight line or course. Used here as the standard by which allowable load for suspension system components is
measured.
Electrogalvanised
A plating process that deposits a coating of zinc on a cold rolled steel substrate. Thickness or weight of coating can be varied and is typically
categorised as heavy-electro through standard-electro or flash electrogalvanised. Process providing rust resistance for metal.
Exposed Grid System
Structural suspension system for lay-in ceiling panels. Factory-painted supporting members are exposed to view. Exposed tee surfaces may
be continuous or have an integral reveal. Reveals are typically formed as channel or rail profiles extending down from the tee leg. Bolt-slot
type reveal designs can accommodate partition attachment. The choice may be restricted by appropriate tee width for panel selected and
limitations on available panel edge details for the chosen grid profile.
Fixture Weight
Individual weight of mechanical services supported by ceiling grid members.
Flange
Horizontal surface on the face of the tee, visible from below the ceiling. The part of the grid to which the color cap is applied.
Galvanised
A generic term used to describe a sheet or coil of steel coated with zinc applied in an electro galvanizing or dipping process.
Gauge
Thickness of the steel used to make a grid member. Expressed in millimetres.
Grid
Structural system of main beams, cross tees, and associated hardware which hangs from the deck above and supports lay-in, concealed or
surface attached ceiling panels.
Hanger Wires
Wire employed to suspend the acoustic ceiling from the existing structure. The standard material is galvanised, soft annealed steel wire.
Seismic designs or exterior installations subject to wind uplift may require supplementary bracing or substantial hanger devices such as
metal straps, rods or structural angles.
Hold Down Clip
Mechanical fastener that snaps over the bulb of a grid system to hold ceiling panels in place.
Hook Tee
Cross tee with an end tab that hooks through the rout hole and rests on the vertical web of the main runner.
Hot Dipped Galvanised
Process to coat steel to offer environmental resistance to corrosion. Cold rolled steel is submerged (dipped) into a molten zinc bath. A heavy
coating of zinc is applied to the steel substrate.

17

L/360, Span/360
The distance between support points of a suspension system member divided by 360. The result of this mathematical equation is the
maximum amount of deflection that is allowed.
Load
Amount of force (weight) that is applied to a lineal metre of any load bearing member of a ceiling system.
Main Beam, Main Runner, Main Tee
Primary or main beams of the type of ceiling suspension system in which the structural members are mechanically locked together. Provide
direct support for cross tees and may support lighting fixtures and air diffusers, as well as acoustic tiles. Supported by hanger wires attached
directly to the existing structure; or installed perpendicular to carrying channels and supported by specially designed sheet metal or wire
clips attached to the carrying channels.
Stiffening Brace
Used to prevent uplift of grid caused by wind pressure in exterior applications.
Suspension System
A metal grid suspended from hanger rods or wires, consisting of main beams and cross tees, clips, splines and other hardware which
supports lay-in acoustic panels or tiles. The completed ceiling forms a barrier to sound, heat and fire. It also absorbs in-room sound and hides
ductwork and wiring in the plenum.

Engineering Department, University of Pretoria

18

Saint-Gobains SpecSure system warranty

Unique to Saint-Gobain Construction Products South Africa, the 10 year

system warranty is designed to give you total confidence that the systems
you have chosen will meet the most rigorous of building requirements.
All of our systems are developed using the highest quality components
designed to work together, and are specifically developed to give you a
lifetime of confidence.
SpecSure is more than just a performance warranty. It means that the
Saint-Gobain Construction Products SA systems you specify:

Have a guaranteed 10 year performance.

Have the technical expertise and experience of the SAs leading construction
products specialist behind it.

Have been tested in accredited fire, acoustic and structural test laboratories.

Have been site tested to demonstrate installation integrity and simplicity.

Will be supported at every stage of the project by SAs leading on and

off-site technical support personnel.
Will perform to published parameters if installed in accordance to
our specifications.
Will be repaired or replaced by Saint-Gobain Construction Products South
Africa in the unlikely event of system failure attributed to unsatisfactory
product/system performance.
Project Packs offer technical guidance and compliance to the building
methodology prescribed which will ensure optimal system performance.

Customer contact centre:

0860 27 28 29 | www.gyproc.co.za