Drop ceiling responsibility

[ivsenroute]

I was just thinking about this today when I was installing cans in the grid for a new drop ceiling. The grid was in place but no tiles yet as the construction is not complete.

So that I can get out of there quickly, I choose to cut and install the tiles in order to put the trim and bulbs in. The contractor doing the ceiling will then have less to do.

Time for a poll. This is for new construction where the grid is in place, the tiles are available and someone else is to install them.

 

[cadpoint]

I thought it was called an above-ceiling-inspection! Lights in place, in tile(s), and someone else plays with the remaining tiles...

 

[BryanMD]

Every project has some variables. But in general... if you want (or are responsible for) the cans to be in the right spot you/your helper will be the one cutting the tiles.

 

[480sparky]

I assume you're talking recessed lights here, not troffers.

Kind of a no-brainer. I'd rather cut the tiles myself and know some Grid-Gumby isn't going to be tearing my cans out just to install the tiles.

I always coordinate with the ceiling contractor anyway when I'm installing recessed in a grid. I just get the OK from them to open up the packages I need to install them.

Time Saving-Tip: If all the cans are centered in the tile, DO NOT open the package. Measure the first tile in the pack, and use your hole saw to cut the hole. When it goes through that tile, the bit will automatically mark the next tile in the pack. Keep working your way down through all the tiles in the pack, being careful not to disturb the plastic wrapping.

 

[mdshunk]

I. Cut the tiles. It's the only way things will be right.

 

[Mr.Sparkle]

Wear a mask that dust is not good for you.

 

[ivsenroute]

I wonder if this is a union issue?

 

[macmikeman]

I cut em in myself so it looks good. Mactip of the day- a plain old empty #12 spool is just about a perfect template for Halo H-7 cutouts, and you can look thru the hole in the center of the roll to spot your center mark on the tile.

 

[cadpoint]

I wonder if this is a union issue?

Not much regionally ... they follow the same rules, No!

 

[bjp_ne_elec]

I'd definitely always prefer to have the ceiling grid up - everything wide open - and then cut the tiles myself. This way your not popping tiles to make connections between lights, etc.

 

[bikeindy]

I. Cut the tiles. It's the only way things will be right.

Bingo! I know when it is a drop ceiling and charge accordingly.

 

[peter d]

I wonder if this is a union issue?

Up here in union strong New England, you bet it is. Any time there are union trades on the job you will not be doing any of their work.

Aside from the union issue, ceiling tile responsibility should be spelled out in the contracts.

 

[charlietuna]

We always cut the tile while installing our fixtures-less arguements and mistakes !

 

[quogueelectric]

I cut em in myself so it looks good. Mactip of the day- a plain old empty #12 spool is just about a perfect template for Halo H-7 cutouts, and you can look thru the hole in the center of the roll to spot your center mark on the tile.

Hey nice tip!!............

 

[russ]

They sell hole saws for recess cans.
It's 50 50 on ceiling guys or electricians cutting the holes on most commercial jobs.

 

[billdozier]

we also cut the tiles and mac I think you stole my tip

 

[LarryFine]

I agree; I'd rather make my own holes, especially if it's my layout.

I also agree that I'd rather do this work while the grid is still empty.

I think the HVAC guys feel the same way.

 

[JohnJ0906]

I've always cut the tiles. Except for where fixtures are, all the rest have to be left out until ceiling inspection.

I also cut them the way Marc does, with a hole saw, one package at a time.

 

[infinity]

We let the ceiling contractor cut the tiles. He's paid to do it and he doesn't want us doing his work so we don't do his work. Typically he'll install the grid and just put in the cut tiles for the high hats when we ask for them. We'll install the fixtures onto the grid then he'll finish the ceiling.

 

[Flex]

We usually tell the ceiling guy how many to cut and they pile them up for us. If its only a few I wouldnt mind but its his tile let him cut them.