What it costs: Suspended ceilings | Features

Specification options: suspended ceiling system
	Capital cost (£/m2)	Life-cycle cost (£/m2 over 60 years)	Expected service life (years)
Cellulose-based mineral fibre lay-in grid tiles, square edge; 600 x 1,200mm	26-32	90	20-30
Stone-wool resin-bonded lay-in grid tile, bevelled edge; 600 x 600mm	32-39	88	30-50
Glass-wool resin-bonded, concealed system; 600 x 600mm	37-46	96	30-50
Gypsum-based board suspended ceiling; 600 x 600mm	40-49	96	30-50
Low-carbon-steel tiles, zinc corrosion protection; polyester coating minimum 40 microns thick; 600 x 600mm; concealed clip-in system	41-50	96	40-50
Aluminium panel suspended ceiling system, 0.95mm thick; polyester coating minimum 40 microns thick	67-81	128	40-60
Table notes A discount rate of 3% is used to calculate net present values. For complete suspended ceiling system, capital costs include perimeter trim, fixing around columns and allowance for the incorporation of services with 500mm void. Based on 1,000m2 of nominal hospital activity spaces. Installation costs vary directly with floor to soffit height, hanger length, perimeter, column and services-to-area ratios. There may be cost benefits by using larger units especially in corridors where one unit spans the width of the corridor, or by economies of scale and standardisation, for example by using a higher-performing membrane throughout the project. Occupancy costs include cleaning, occasional replacement and replacement costs. Life-cycle costs are indicative and are based on the average of capital costs and service lives. A cost analysis based on project specific information is essential for a realistic best value appraisal.