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Knocking Down a Barn vs. Restoring the Building

One of the top products for CeilingConnex is our innovative and interesting Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles. These tiles, which are made out of repurposed wall panels from old barns, give stores and home a rustic, old-fashioned appearance.

In most cases, these panels come from barns that are either being knocked down or restored. Because we always need a fresh supply of material, we are constantly on the watch for barns that are being reworked.

If you have a old barn on your property, you may have considered either demolishing it down or completely restoring it. We’d like to help you make the right decision by showing you the advantages of either option.

When you do make a decision, we hope you’ll contact CeilingConnex and let us repurpose the panel. Whether you are restoring the barn or tearing it down and staring fresh, we can make sure the metal panels are kept out of the landfill.

Barn Demolition or Restoration: Which is Right for You?

Advantages of Knocking Down the Barn

First, we’ll start with the reasons for completely knocking down the barn. In most cases, you won’t tear down the barn unless the structure itself is fundamentally flawed. For example, if the beams, foundation, and framing is so badly worn that just being inside the barn is a potential hazard, you obviously want to knock it down.

Also, if your old barn no longer serves a purpose, you may want to have it removed. Many modern farm operations no longer need the traditional barns, but instead use large machine sheds. You may benefit from simply tearing down the barn if you use large combines, sprayers, and other industrial farm equipment.

Advantages of Restoring the Barn

In many cases, simply restoring the barn can be more affordable than completely knocking it down and building a new structure. While each situation is different, you may find that simply restoring the barn costs a fraction of the price compared to knocking it down and having a new structure built.

Typically, we find barns need restoration, but not demolition, because the tin on the roof has started to leak. This usually occurs around the fasteners and can lead to water inside the barn, which is bad for both animals and equipment. Also, if the tin is in very poor condition, it may be time to simply replace the panels with new material. There are many modern options for new paneling that provide structural protection and rust resistance.

No matter which you choose, CeilingConnex can help remove the existing tin panels from your barn. We’ll take the material and turn it into usable ceiling tiles, helping keep trash out of the landfill while giving stores and homes a unique, decorative ceiling or wall tile.

CeilingConnex: Your Source for Grids and Tiles

With a direct-mount ceiling, you can have more overhead space while maintaining access to overhead wires, pipes, and utilities.

Check out our product selection and you’ll find everything you need for a high-quality direct mount ceiling that is easy to install.

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Why is Galvanized Tin Used in Agriculture?

Galvanized tin is a popular product for creating barns and sheds. It is durable, rugged, and unique, as well as affordable. This has made galvanized tin one of the top products for making barns, and it’s also become one of our top ceiling tiles.

Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles are made from salvaged galvanized tin which usually comes from old barns. They are a great product for giving homes and shopes a rustic, visually-stunning appearance, and they have become one of the most interesting ceiling tiles available today.

Let’s explore galvanized tin and find out why it is so popular in agriculture.

Galvanized Tin: Agriculture’s Favorite Material

Affordable Paneling

One of the main reasons that galvanized tin is used in agriculture is because it is very affordable. Many farm operations are running on very tight budgets, so they need an affordable product that can give them protection for animals or farm equipment. Galvanized tin, which has all the qualities you expect from a barn panel, is also very affordable. This, perhaps more than any other reason, makes galvanized tin panels a popular choice for agricultural buildings.

Easy to Install

Farmers and ranchers often do everything for themselves. They repair vehicles, put up fencing, care for animals, and build or remodel their own buildings. For this reason, people need a paneling product that is easy to install and simple to work with. Galvanized tin meets this specific need, as it is easy to install and can often be handled by only one person. When farmers, ranchers, and property owners need an easy-to-install paneling product, galvanized tin has been the go-to product for decades.

Withstands the Elements

While the material can rust over time, it generally maintains excellent strength against the elements. While other parts of the barn are starting to fall apart, you will often find galvanized tin that, while rusty, still has its structural strength. The long-lasting nature is another reason that these panels have been so popular for a very long time.

Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles: The New Form of Galvanized Tin

CeilingConnex is proud to offer high-quality barn tin ceiling tiles that are made from repurposed galvanized tin. We find barns that are being torn down or remodeled and salvage the tin. We then cut the panels into 2’x2’ pieces, creating a gorgeous ceiling tiles that fit with standard grids and matches many different design purposes.

These tiles have a unique appearance that delivers a rustic, old-world style. It’s perfect for restaurants, retail outlets, antique stores, and any other business that wants to create an old-fashioned look. They can also be used to create a rustic theme for your home or shop.

Add Galvanized Tin Ceiling Tiles to Your Walls or Ceiling!

Contact CeilingConnex today to learn more about our barn tin ceiling tiles. We have the right products to deliver a classic style for your home, so order your grid and panels today!

From classic white ceiling tiles to rustic barn tin, our products, combined with a direct-connect system, give you a world-class ceiling that is easy to install and maintain.

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Salvaging Tin: How We Create Our Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles

At CeilingConnex, we are proud to offer some of the finest ceiling products you can find. This includes top-quality direct mount grids, as well as white and black ceiling tiles made from PVC plastics.

We also offer one of the most unique products in the industry: barn tin ceiling tiles. These tiles are made from salvaged tin that we cut into 2x2-foot squares. While the process is quite simple, there are a few important steps that we use to find the panels and create world-class ceiling tiles from unwanted barn tin.

How We Create Our Unique Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles

The First Step: Finding the Panels

Before we can do anything else, we need to find available barn tin paneling. Fortunately, we have relationships with lots of people all over the area, so we are always informed when someone is refinishing or rebuilding a barn. If we hear about someone replacing the tin panels on their barn, we come by and remove it for them, keeping the material out of the landfill.

Only the Right Panels Will Do

Not every barn panel will make it to the cutting phase. First of all, we only use 1.25-inch corrugated steel. We choose this size because it is the unofficial standard for barn panels and fits with a standard ceiling grid. It is common among almost all panel manufacturer, so we can use many different sources while maintaining a consistency in our products.

While we can bend and straighten some panels, if they are too damaged or dented we will not use them in our manufacturing. We are very selective and often come across panels that are too dented to be used as a ceiling tile.

Removing the Tiles: Gloves, Flat Bar, and Sweat

Removing the tiles is quite simple, but it can be an exhausting process. In most cases, it only takes a few hours to remove the panels, but it can take a few days if the project is particularly large.

The process is simple but requires a lot of effort. We simply grab a pair of work gloves and a flat bar, and start ripping off the paneling, taking care to not bend or damage the panels. If the barn is tall, ladders or equipment may be required. In all cases, safety is an important concern when salvaging panels.

No Special Finishes Required

After the panels are salvaged, we simply move them to our facility and cut them into 2x2 squares. Because the panels have their own unique coloring and patterns, we do not use any finishes or stains of any kind. We simply cut them to shape, which helps them maintain a natural, rustic appearance.

Order Your Salvaged Tin Ceiling Tiles Today

CeilingConnex can help you have the finest ceiling products available.

With a wide selection of products, including the Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles, we have everything you need for a wonderful basement or commercial space.

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History of the Sioux Steel Company

Previously, we wrote a piece that discussed the origins of barn tin. This article briefly highlighted the manufacturing process and discussed how we create our barn tin ceiling tiles from unwanted barn paneling.

To dive further into the topic, we’d like to take a look at the Sioux Steel Company, one of the leading manufacturers for barn panels, many of which have become our ceiling tiles.

Sioux Steel Company: An Important Source for Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles

The Sioux Steel Company remains one of the few family-owned companies in the steel manufacturing and processing business. For four generations, this company has been creating high-quality products that are used all over the country, especially in the agriculture-heavy middle states.

The company was founded by Charles Rysdon in 1918. His facility was located in a small horse barn with an adjacent wagon repair facility. Originally, the company supplied furnace duct work to homes and offices in the Sioux Falls area. In the 1920, however, Sioux Steel began manufacturing furnaces, wall and floor grids, and oil storage tanks. Eventually, more products were added, including corrugated sheets of barn metal.

In 1940, Max Rysdon become the company’s president. As the son of Charles, Max had been working for the company since he was 15, with a starting role as a water-boy for the factory floor. Max began expanding the territory for Sioux Steel. Previously, they served mostly South Dakota and the bordering states. Under Max’s leadership, the company started providing steel products all across the country.

Products continued to grow and expand, and the company once again expanded its facilities. Eventually, a finance department, which was called Empire Credit, was created. This department helped farmers, homeowners, and business owners get the supplies they needed at an affordable price. By this time, Phil Rysdon, the grandson of Charles and the third-generation owner, was an important leader in the company.

By the 1980’s, the fourth generation of the Rysdon family was ready to enter the business. At the age of 27, Scott Rysdon become company president. He had a lot to prove but helped the company move forward and maintain its position as a national leader in barn tin and agricultural products.

The business manufactures many different products, but one that is always popular is their corrugated steel panels. These panels are now a part of the barn tin ceiling tile lineup.

The ceiling tiles we create by upcycling barn tin are made from old panels. These panels can come from many different original manufacturers, and it’s not uncommon to find Sioux Steel products. We repurpose many items here in South Dakota, so panels from the Sioux Steel Company are a common sight.

American-Made Ceiling Panels for Your Location

You can have top-quality products for your home, office, or industrial facility.

If you are looking for top-quality ceiling panels, contact CeilingConnex today. We’ll help you choose the right grid and panel system for your home or office, so order your supply today!

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The History of Granite City Steel and STRONGBARN Panels

Barn tin ceiling tiles from CeilingConnex are some of the most unique and interesting products you can purchase for your home or office. Made from repurposed barn panels, these tiles give a unique character to any area.

But where did these tiles come from in the first place? In many cases, they were originally manufactured by an Illinois-based company called Granite City Steel.

About Granite City Steel

Granite City Steel has a rich history of innovation, aspiration, and efficiency. Although the company itself has gone through numerous changes and challenges, it consistently remains one of the top plants for steel panel production.

Granite City Steel was founded by Frederick and William Niedringhaus, German immigrants who came to America in search of greater opportunity. Around the 1860’s, Frederick and William started a tinware company in the St. Louis area. In the 1970’s, the brothers developed a system for creating decorative mottled surfaces on metal, which became known as “graniteware.”

During their rise to prominence, Frederick served as a Congressman, representing the state of Missouri from 1889 to 1891. After two years of service, he did not seek reelection and returned to the metal business, which turned out to be a successful decision.

The brothers began to grow their metal business and eventually moved right across the Mississippi River, to the nearby town of Granite City, Illinois. The would officially create Granite City Steel in 1895.

Throughout the industrial revolution, the town of Granite City, Illinois was a major producer of materials and became a booming industrial city alongside its larger neighbor, St. Louis. Granite City Steel played a part in the area’s growth, employing many people throughout the St. Louis region.

According to an article by the Preservation Research Office, Granite City Steel’s facilities had two 22-ton furnaces and four mills. Altogether, the plant was capable of producing 20,000 gross tons of finished product every year. At first, the plant only made metal sheets, but in 1905, the Granite City Steel facility expanded production, adding bar steel and tin plate to its output. By 1905, Granite City Steel employed 2,000 people and the facility covered 15 total acres.

The company was incorporated in 1927 and would eventually be purchased by U.S. Steel. The facility in Granite City is still in operation, with an annual capacity of 650,000 tons.

The STRONGBARN Brand

STRONGBARN is one of the trademarks for the Granite City Steel company, which is now owned by U.S. Steel. The trademark was filed in 1948, and it gave the company ownership of specific forms of corrugated steel sheet roofing and siding materials. The trademark expired in 1992. This material was used in the production of many different barns and now is used to create some of the barn tin ceiling tiles that are available for purchase through CeilingConnex.

Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles are Available Now!

If you are looking for top-quality ceiling products, you need to browse the full selection from CeilingConnex.

Whether you want rustic barn tin or classic white ceiling panels, you’ll find everything you need when you visit our site.

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Top Uses for CeilingConnex’s Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles

Our barn tin ceiling tiles are some of the most interesting and unique products you can find. They are made reused barn tin and each one has its own colors, patterns, and characteristics.

So what can you use this material for? It might seem pretty limit, but when you get creative, there are actually dozens of uses for these amazing tiles.

Creative Uses for Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles

Antique Shops

If you have an antique store that sells rustic materials and old fashioned antiques, barn tin ceiling tiles can give your space the old-fashioned character you prefer for your space. Barn tin ceiling tiles will complement the vintage wares you have for sale and set the throw-back tone for your store.

Restaurants

Do you have a restaurant with an old-fashioned theme? Do you sell southern-style smoked meats or have a country-themed brand? Barn tin ceiling tiles will give your restaurant a unique appeal and help set your interior apart from the competition.

Honkey Tonks

Cowboy boots, belt buckles, and Stetson hats. If your bar plays live country music and has a dance floor for two-stepping, then your location will be perfect for barn tin. Your customers can boot-scoot all night next to rustic barn tin ceiling tiles!

Consignment Stores

No matter what their income level, people love consignment stores. You never know what you’re going to find, which makes visiting at a consignment store part shopping, part mystery. Barn tin ceiling tiles, which are upcycled, go well with the “reuse-everything” principle that makes consignment stores so popular and so important.

Vintage-Style Retail Outlets

If you sell old-fashioned clothing, boots, and hats, you could enhance the interior appeal of your store by installing barn tin ceiling tiles. Branding is essential in the retail business, and faded barn tin delivers the unique message you desire for your outlet.

Woodworking Shops

Do you have a home wood shop? Do you love to build your own chairs, tables, and stools? Maybe you create gorgeous wall decorations. No matter what you create in your woodworking shop, you can install ceiling tiles to deliver a nostalgic look that matches perfectly with the old-fashioned nature of woodworking.

Classic Car Displays

If you love classic cars from the early 1930’s, 40’s, and 50’s, barn tin ceiling tiles will be perfect for your shop or display. It doesn’t matter if classic cars are your business or your hobby, barn tin will still look great as a shop ceiling or wall background.

Half-Wall Paneling

Are you planning on remodeling the basement? If you want to give your personal space a rustic design, consider a half-wall of paneling made from barn tin ceiling tiles. This design addition is perfect if you want to create a country-themed basement bar or lounge area in your home.

Get Quality Ceiling Tiles from an American Company

Order your barn tin ceiling tiles and ceiling grids today. No matter where you want to install barn tin ceiling tiles, you’ll have a quality product that looks great and delivers the rustic style you love.

Don’t wait any longer when you can have direct mount ceilings for any home or commercial setting. 

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Where Does Barn Tin Come From?

CeilingConnex is proud to offer barn tin ceiling tile, one of the most interesting and eco-friendly ceiling products you can find.

This material has a unique story that goes back decades. It has a rich history and can give your space a rustic, old-fashioned look that is hard to recreate.

The History of Barn Tin

The manufacturing process for tin roofs does not actually involve entirely-tin material. In fact, these materials are manufactured using a combination of steel and tin. Tin is very corrosion resistant, but it is not strong enough to make a reliable barn wall or roof. Steel, on the other hand, is very strong and can hold up to a lot of pressure or weight. For these reasons, tin was coated over steel panels to create a strong yet corrosion-resistant material. This material became the basis for what we now call “barn tin,” as well as many other materials, including “tin” cans.

The height of using tin-coated panels for barn and sheds was about 50 years ago. Around the middle of the century, and lasting to the end of the 20th century, tin panels were used to wrap barn frames and create long-lasting protection from the outside elements.

Since the beginning of the 21st century, tin barn panels have been replaced with products coated by different materials. It is now more common to find “galvanized” steel around modern barns. Instead of tin, galvanized roofing uses alloys of zinc to provide corrosion resistance. This new material is superior to the old tin roofs, and is often more cost effective as well.

Making Ceiling Tiles out of Unwanted Material

So now that barn tin is being replaced by modern metals, what happens to all that old material. In most cases, the material is either recycled or thrown in the landfill. While recycling is obviously better than trashing, they both have their disadvantages.

Obviously throwing the material in the waste is a problem, but even recycling can use a lot of energy and require advanced processing to strip the steel of its tin coating and separate the two metals.

Upcycling is now a popular option for many materials, including barn tin. To create our barn tin ceiling tiles, we take panels of corrugated barn tin that would otherwise be recycled or trashed and cut it into 2x2 strips. This material can now be used as a decorative option for retail outlets, bars, restaurants, and even homes. The rustic orange, reds, and browns mixed with metallic grays create an old-fashioned style that few products can match. It really is a simple solution that creates a fantastic appearance for your space.

Enhance Your Space with Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles

CeilingConnex has a large selection of high-quality ceiling products that can bring quality and reliability to your home or business.

Whether you need new ceiling tiles for your basement or an entire ceiling grid for your commercial office, we have the materials you need!

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Questions to Ask Every Commercial Remodeling Contractor

Remodeling a basement, kitchen, or bathroom can be very exciting; you can’t wait to turn that old space into something incredible.

Unfortunately, this means many people rush the process and choose the first contractor they find. However, you need to slow down and ask a few important questions before you start.

The vast majority of contractors are honest, reliable professionals, and asking these questions will help you find the right one for your project.

Ask These Questions to Hire the Right Contractor for Your Home Remodeling

How long have you been an independent contractor?

While it’s great to hire a contractor with lots of industry experience, what really matters is how long their business has been in operation. Someone might have decades of experience as a cabinet builder for another company, but decades of service as a business owner shows they have done a great job for many previous customers. It also shows they’re more likely to do a great job for you!

Is the bid fixed or an estimate?

It may not always be possible, but you want to know that the provided bid is fixed, not a flexible estimate that can change throughout the project. If it is simply an estimate, make sure you are very detailed in what will be on the final bill and set a maximum price.

Can you provide proof of licensing and insurance?

A good contractor should be fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Licensing and bonding don’t guarantee quality, but they do increase your chances of a successful outcome. Insurance is also important, as it provides a safety net incase of significant damage to your home, such as accidentally breaking a pipe or harming the foundation.

Who will be in charge of my project? (And When can I meet them?)

The person you meet may not be the person conducting your remodeling. You always want to know who is in charge and meet them face-to-face before signing a contract.

What hours will the team be working?

Contractors, like all people, have various routines and schedules, so it’s essential that you talk with the foreman or business owner to get an idea of when they will be working. You have a life to live, so ask about how early and late they work, and whether or not they plan on working weekends. A consistent, planned-out schedule is a sign of a professional, organized contractor.

Are your employees provided with workman’s compensation?

Let’s say one of your contractor’s employees slips in your yard and hits his head on a cement paver. If your contractor doesn’t provide workman’s compensation, you could be liable for the cost of medical expenses. No matter how easy or fast the project might be, workman’s comp is essential for any contractor you hire.

What is your billing process?

If all looks well and you’re ready to hire this contractor, it’s time to discuss billing. You and your contractor should be completely clear on how payments should be made and when they expect full payment. Do they expect a down payment? How timely do they expect invoices to be paid? By the way, if the contractor requires full payment upfront, find another option.

American Made Ceilings for Your Remodeling Project

If you are remodeling your basement, take the time to include a direct mount ceiling from CeilingConnex.

We have a large selection of ceiling grids and tiles, so contact us today to learn more!

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CeilingConnex Barn Tiles: Upcycling for Your Ceiling

We have to be honest: we are very proud of our barn tin ceiling tiles! These tiles have some of the most unique characteristics you can find in a ceiling tile, and they also help the environment by keeping perfectly-good metal out our the landfill.

These tiles are effective for restaurants and businesses, but they can also be used to give your home a creative edge!

Why Upcycling is So Effective?

Upcycling is a popular way to conserve products and limit the environmental impact of creating new raw materials. This form of material processing is much lighter in scope and effort, making it an easier and more affordable option for many different products.

Upcycling, in many ways, is similar to recycling. There are, of course, a few differences. With recycling, you take unwanted materials, including paper, metals, plastic, and cardboard, and break them down into a raw material so that they can be created into something new. With upcycling, however, you don’t actually break the materials down, you simply recreate them.

Barn Ceiling Tiles Bring Eco-Friendly Character

Our barn ceiling tiles bring style and character to your ceiling, and they do it all in a very eco-friendly manner. These barn tin ceiling tiles are literally made from the walls and ceilings of old barns that used tin paneling. We simply took the panels and cut them into precise 2-foot by 2-foot squares, creating tiles that fit perfectly into our ceiling grid system.

By creating tiles this way, we have kept the metal materials from ending up in the landfill. They are not processed and rebuilt, they are simply torn down and cut to shape, which means far fewer resources and much less energy is used to create these products compared to tiles made from new materials or recycled materials.

Each piece is made from individual barn tin panels, so they are all unique. Because of wind, rain, and other factors, they have different shades and coloring, creating a unique character for each tile. When they come together to create your ceiling, you’ll see a major difference between each one.

Creative Uses for Barn Ceiling Tiles

So how can you put these ceiling tiles to good use? They are very popular for rustic or old-fashioned businesses, especially restaurants and retail outlets. For example, if you have an old-fashioned restaurant that sells southern-style smoked meats and ribs, these tiles will make your place look fantastic. Retail outlets that sell antiques and collectables will also find good use from these tin tiles.

You can also use these tiles at home to enhance your shop, barn, or garage. Wherever you want to add classic character to a room, these tiles will meet your needs.

CeilingConnex has the Right Tiles for Your Home or Business

CeilingConnex provides a wide range of direct mount ceiling grids and tiles, including the popular Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles.

Place your order and you’ll get American-made products backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee!

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6 Essential Tips for an Effective Home Office

Working from home is becoming more common every year. According to a 2015 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly a quarter of all employed people in the U.S. did some or all of their work from home.

Working from home requires an office space that allows you to focus and stay productive. It means making the right choices for decoration and organization so you can continue to work at a high level.

Whether you are self-employed or working at home for an employer, remember these important tips for your home office…

Home Office: 6 Tips for an Effective Work Space

1. A Door is a MUST

We can discuss the uses of a standup desk, carpet or hardwood flooring, and extra seating in the home office. A door, however, is non-negotiable. With a home office, you need to be able to separate yourself from the rest of the home distractions, so while open-floor plans might work for modern offices, you can’t drop your home office in the middle of the living room. Choose a separate room with it’s own door for privacy and quiet.

2. Use Natural Lighting Whenever Possible

Your office should have as much natural lighting as possible. While direct sunlight in your eyes can be a problem, having natural light in the room will give your space a balanced, even appeal. Using natural light makes for a better office and a smaller utility bill.

3. Get a High-Quality Office Chair

Don’t skimp on your office chair. If you will work even half-days in your home office, you need a chair that will be comfortable for hours. It’s tempting to go out and purchase the most affordable desk chair around, but your back muscles and spine will thank you if you purchase a quality product.

4. Paint the Walls an Appropriate Color

Do your research when painting the walls in your home office before dipping your brush. There are different colors for different purposes, so you may want green, beige, yellow, or blue for your office.

According to color psychologist Angela Wright, blue is generally considered to be the most productive color, while yellow is best for designers and creativity. Green provides balance and calm, while red it best for areas that use physical activity, so it may not be effective for most modern home offices.

5. Organize Vertically

Clutter in the office brings clutter in the brain. To help get items off the floor and desktop, use vertical storage, such as filing cabinets, tall bookshelves, and cabinets to completely change the space in your office and give a better atmosphere for high productivity.

6. Limit Your Wall Decorations

Just like storage clutter, wall clutter can mentally clog your mind. While you should have a few nice wall decorations, if your job involves lots of deep thinking, writing, or problem-solving, try to keep wall decor to a minimum. A few paintings are better than a wall covered in pictures, artwork, plaques, and logos.

Create the Perfect Home Office with CeilingConnex

If you are turning part of your unfinished basement in to a home office, install a reliable ceiling with CeilingConnex.

You’ll get an easy-to-install direct mount ceiling grid when you order from us, so check out our full selection today!

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Why Repurposing Materials is More Important Than Ever!

Repurposing is becoming more important every day. While recycling certainly has its advantages, using repurposed materials is important for everyone, from homeowners to builders to anyone furnishing a home.

Advantages of Repurposing Building Materials

Saves Energy

While recycling is a wonderful practice that has a positive impact on the environment, repurposing materials is even more effective when it comes to saving energy. In fact, recycling can actually be a very energy-intense practice, depending on how it’s done. With recycling, the material, be it cardboard, metal, or plastic, is shipped to a facility and broken down and recreated through an industrial process, which takes energy and resources to complete. Repurposing, however, takes far fewer resources to complete, making it a more energy-efficient process.

Possibly More Affordable

Recycling material takes time and energy to complete a rather significant process. While this results in fewer raw materials being used, it can bring a higher price for these goods compared to repurposed materials. You can find many repurposed materials that are very affordable, giving you a great deal on home items, decorations, clothing, accessories, and more.

Reduces the Amount of Waste in our Landfills

In many cases, when materials and equipment are no longer needed, we simply throw them in the trash and move on. It’s all too easy to dispose of the items and forget about them, but unfortunately our landfills are filling fast, so reducing the amount of trash is essential. Repurposing takes usable items, including raw materials, and turns them into items that people can use, keeping pressure of the landfills and disposal areas. By reducing the amount of trash in our current waste areas we are protecting future lands from becoming landfills themselves.

Reduce VOCs in the Air

Using old materials can be very important for the environment. For example, when you use repurposed items, you keep volatile organic compounds, or VOC’s, from the air. According to E-Cycle Environmental, furniture and other materials release VOC throughout their lifespan. However, the highest amount is released during the first two years. If you use repurposed items, as opposed to new items, most of the VOC’s have already been released.

Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles: Repurposed for Your Building

By repurposing barn tins, we have created one of the most unique ceiling tiles you can find today. Our Barn Tine Ceiling Tiles perfectly fit 2’x2’ ceiling grids, allowing you to match the items with our direct-mount system. This gives you an amazing style that is perfect for rustic bars and restaurants or unique retail outlets. If you want to add character to your location while getting all the benefits of repurposed material, our Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles will be perfect.

Get High-Quality Ceiling Tiles and Grids Today!

CeilingConnex has some of the finest ceiling tiles available, including high-quality repurposed Barn Tin Ceiling Tiles and black or white ceiling tiles.

Visit our website and you’ll find everything you need for your home or commercial area by using our ceiling kits, so check out our selection now! 

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Important Factors When Remodeling a Restaurant

Remodeling a restaurant is a complex process. You not only need to consider your business needs, you need to create a viable budget, think about your customers’ preferences, and make changes that will result in a long-sustained restaurant.

Before you start, consider these important factors and you’ll have better results when your restaurant remodeling is complete…

Remember These Factors Before Remodeling Your Restaurant

Seating Capacity

What is the overall seating capacity that you are aiming for when remodeling your restaurant. If you are simply adding a new coat of paint or updating the light fixtures, then the seating capacity won’t really be affected. However, if you are remodeling the floor plan in any way, you need to take careful consideration of the seating capacity and use this to guide your final layout.

Kitchen Size and Equipment

The size of your kitchen will also play an important role in your kitchen remodeling, and it’s a factor that should be carefully considered before you start. Do you have multiple grills, friers, and stoves? Do you need space for a large meat smoker or storage freezer? What about a prep table? What about utensil storage? If your remodeling will spill into the kitchen, it’s vital that you take a detailed approach to the size of your kitchen and the required layout for all your equipment, machines, and tools.

Fire Suppression and Fire Safety Needs

Every restaurant, no matter what the size and scope, needs to seriously consider fire suppression systems. In many cases, it may be a required part of your remodeling. Kitchen fires can occur in any kitchen, so installing a system designed to suppress grease fires will enhance the safety of your entire restaurant. It may also be legally required as part of your local codes. While you’re considering fire suppression, be sure to look at your layout and make sure there are safe exits for everyone in the building. (Again, this is likely a required factor.)

How Will Changes Affect Movement of Staff and Customers

If you are changing the floor plan of the dining room, make sure you are increasing (or at the very least, not harming) the efficiency of your staff. The hosts, wait staff, servers, and dining room team should be able to move through a clear, unobstructed path. This not only enhances efficiency, but by reducing the chances of a collision or trip, it can improve the overall safety in your restaurant as well.

Consider how your customers can move through the restaurant also. Can they easily walk to the exits? Are bathrooms and exits clearly marked? It there enough space between tables? You remodeling plans should always consider the customers that keep your doors open!

The Exterior Matters Too!

Most restaurant remodeling considers the interior. While this is obviously important, a thorough restaurant remodeling project could also include the exterior. Display your restaurant theme with exterior styles and decorate the outside with a design that matches your interior.

Direct Mount Ceiling Grids and Tiles for Long-Lasting Quality

Our ceiling grid is perfect for remodeling. They are not only fire and mold resistant, they are made from some of the best materials available.

You can have a direct-mount ceiling that looks neat and professional, just like your restaurant! Find the ceiling kit that works best for your restaurant today!

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Basement Remodeling: 6 Tips for a Safer Family Space

If you’ve decided to remodel your home, you likely can’t wait to get started! We understand, as remodeling will add a new level of excitement and comfort to your entire home.

But before you jump into the process, make sure you are taking steps to ensure excellent safety.

Ventilate While Painting

While this step has more to do with the process of remodeling over the final results, it’s still important. If you are painting, make sure you ventilate the area thoroughly, using fans and open windows, to ensure any harmful chemicals from paint are swiftly removed from the home.

Egress Windows for All Bedrooms

It’s no coincidence that egress windows are legally required for all basement bedrooms. These large windows have enough room for someone to safely exit through, creating an emergency escape in case of fire. If you already have egress windows built, you’re in good shape. However, if you don’t have egress windows, you’ll need to have them built, which can be expensive and time consuming, as you’ll likely have to dig a space and pour supportive concrete.

Use Fire-Resistant Materials Wherever Possible

Much of the effort you take for increasing the long-term safety in your remodeled basement will center around fire safety. This, of course, includes using materials that are less likely to cause or increase a fire. If you are installing a direct-mount ceiling, you can choose tiles from CeilingConnex, which are fire resistant and create a safe and attractive ceiling.

Have a Comprehensive Strategy for Water Proofing

While you probably won’t have to worry about sudden flood of water in your basement, you’re more likely to have to deal with seepage and leaks, which can eventually cause mold to grow in the home. Mold spores can become airborne, leading to respiratory problems and allergic reactions. For the long-term health of your family, be sure to take measure to ensure a water-proof basement.

Test for Radon

Radon occurs naturally, seeping through the ground at levels that are usually harmless. However, when radon seeps from the ground into an enclosed home, it can collect in potentially dangerous concentrations. You can’t see or smell radon, so test your basement for radon on a regular basis to ensure your family has safe air for years to come.

Safely Secure the Television to the Wall

There’s a small debate going on about the safest place for modern televisions. Placing a flat screen on the wall is a popular choice, but many people are concerned that it could fall and harm children or pets. However, there are a few resources, including Wired and Safe Kids Worldwide, that claim wall-mounting may actually be safer, because kids can’t reach the television and tip it over. If you do choose wall-mounting, be sure to properly mount and secure the television, and consider adding emergency straps for enhanced safety.

Fire Resistant, Mold Resistant Ceiling Tiles from CeilingConnex

You can have safe, stylish tile from CeilingConnex for your basement remodeling.

Check out our full line of products and you’ll have practically everything you need for your direct mount ceiling. In fact, if you order one of our ceiling tile kits, all you’ll need is a few tools and the right fasteners!

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Save on Your Commercial Remodel with These Convenient Tips!

Commercial remodeling is certainly not cheap, but when done right, it can be an affordable process that is worth the time, effort, and money.

While you certainly don’t want to cut corners on your commercial remodel, there are some specific ways that you can save and still have the world-class results you demand.

How to Save on Your Commercial Remodeling Project

Shoot for Minimal Changes

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning your commercial remodel is to overextend yourself and your project. Instead of going after every single corner of your current space, think about what you need and make it a priority. Make minimal changes whenever possible and you will significantly reduce the overall cost and time of your commercial remodel.

Leave Plumbing, Ducts, and Electrical Components in Place

This ties directly to making minimal changes in your commercial remodel. When planning out your project, work with your contractors and designers to ensure that as few changes as possible are made to the existing structure, especially the plumbing, ducts, and electrical components. Moving these items requires the service of a highly trained professional, and you’ll inevitably pay more for their services. Leave the ducts, wires, and pipes alone and your budget will be much happier.

Find Things You Can Do Yourself

While many phases of a remodel must be handled by a certified professional, (electrical and plumbing, for example) there are parts that virtually anyone can manage. Demolition is the obvious example. If you need to tear out carpet, remove installed cubicles, or take out an existing ceiling, you can likely take care of these tasks yourself. Depending on your skill level, you could also hang sheet rock, paint the walls, or install tile. But it’s worth saying again: when in doubt, leave it to the pros.

Avoid Mid-Project Adjustments

This comes down to planning. Take your time with the planning phase of your remodeling to ensure that every step meets your needs. The last thing you want to do is change the plans halfway through construction. This not only frustrates contractors, it will skyrocket the cost of your commercial remodeling project. Create a plan, stick to the plan, finish the plan. Your budget and your business will thank you!

Plan Your Commercial Remodel for the Off Season

Contractors are busiest during the summer, so their services will often cost more during the peak season. If possible, schedule your remodeling for the winter months; you may find contractors who are looking for work and willing to offer significant discounts. While each situation is different, you can reasonably expect to save about 4 to 5 percent on your remodeling, which can make a big difference when you’re spending tens, or even hundreds, of thousands of dollars.

The Perfect Ceiling for Commercial Remodeling

CeilingConnex is proud to offer American-made direct connect ceilings that are rust-proof, durable, and easy to install.

These direct mount ceilings are perfect for commercial remodeling, as they allow for simply access to utilities while maintaining overhead height. 

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Need More Storage? Remember These Tips When Remodeling Your Basement

When you are remodeling your basement, it’s easy to get swept up in building an elaborate bar, an engaging home theater, or a decorative playroom. But you can’t forget the storage space.

Well-organized storage is essential if you’re going to have a complete basement, so use these simple steps and your basement can make you happy for decades!

Storage Ideas for Your Finished Basement

Use the Area Under the Steps

The area underneath the steps can be overlooked as a storage space, so be sure to keep this area available. The beauty of this is that you won’t have to design the space, just section it off from sight and you have plenty of hidden storage available.

Add Built-In Shelving

If you have a large wall in your basement, one of the best ways to give yourself more storage is to add built-in shelving. This addition can be used to store books, tools, toys, and anything else that might need temporary storage with easy access.

Section off the Mechanical Area

Hopefully most of the utilities, including the furnace, water softener, and drain are in one corner of the basement. This allows you to section off the area and create a space where you can store a wide variety of items.

Leave Room for Large Items in Mechanical Room

The mechanical room we discussed above is perfect for storage of large items, but you need to make sure you leave enough space. You don’t want to store your plastic Christmas tree or extra dining chairs in the living room, so leave a few square feet of open space in the mechanical room.

Place Cubbies in Kids’ Rooms

If you are building a bedroom or playroom for children, low-height cubbies are perfect for storing toys and backpacks. Be sure to make them only a few feet off the ground so kids can access them easily, and consider strapping them to the wall for safety.

Use Wall Storage for Craft Rooms and Shops

Wall storage for tools and materials is a great way to organize a basement craft room or shop. You can simply place peg boards along the wall or hang a magnetic strip for metal tools and equipment.

Overhead Hangers Above the Bar

To create the perfect bar without crowding your basement space, you’ll need to cleverly execute the storage. One of the best ways is to have wine and martini glass racks hanging above the bar. You could also hang beer mugs from an extended rod.

Make Closets Out of Nooks and Crannies

The small nooks and crannies in your basement can be perfectly sectioned into closets. Depending on the size, you could create a large area where all of your square footage will fit perfectly, giving you the most complete storage possible and allowing you to maximize your storage space.

A Direct-Mount Ceiling for any Basement Remodel

You can have an amazing basement with more storage space thanks to a direct mount ceiling from CeilingConnex.

A direct mount ceiling will only take about an inch of overhead space, leaving more room for stacking boxes and building shelves!

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What Every Business Owner Needs to Know about Remodeling Permits

It’s something we all have to deal with. Like it or not, construction permits are a part of life, so if you are remodeling your commercial space, be sure to understand these essential steps in the process.

From completely changing a space to making small adjustments, construction permits help ensure quality and consistency while helping create a great community.

If you are considering a commercial remodel, remember this important permit information.

Commercial Permits: What You Need to Know

Permits Vary by State, County, and City

It’s important to remember that the specifics of each permit will vary depending on the area where your office, restaurant, commercial space, or business is located. For example, if you have a retail outlet in one city, and want to create a second outlet in the next county, you will likely deal with different codes and permits.

Ordinary Repairs Generally Don’t Require a Permit

Again, it will change depending on your area, but in most cases repairs that could reasonably be considered ordinary and routine will not require a permit. For example, replacing the gutters, painting the walls or exterior, or installing high-efficiency windows will not call for a permit.

Permits are Universally Required for Electrical, Plumbing, and other “Expert” Work

No matter where your commercial space is located, if you plan on making any electrical or plumbing changes, you can bet that you’ll have to deal with permits in some form. For obvious reasons, these tasks need to be handled by qualified experts, so make sure you are working with the right team and be sure to get your application for a permit in quickly so you can schedule the services of a busy professional.

If You are Changing the Use of the Space, Expect Complications

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but many of the complications that come from commercial remodeling are a result of changes in the use of the space. For example, if you want to remodel your retail space to include a small food vendor, you may have to get special permits from the city. Because of various zoning laws, you may experience complications when trying to adjust the use of your commercial space.

The Price of Permit Grows with the Price of the Project

In most jurisdictions, the price of the permit will change depending on the estimated cost of the project. For example, if it will only cost $400 to complete the task, the permit may cost about $15, but if it will cost over $5,000, it could cost $80. (This is just a rough example.)

Permit Fees Help Fund the Area

If you’re feeling a little hot-headed about all these permit fees, look on the bright side: not only do permits help ensure safe construction and long-lasting facilities, they have a positive impact on the community, helping to fund schools, roads, and more. If nothing else, consider it a contribution to your community!

American-Made Ceiling Tiles for Your Commercial Remodeling

You can have a high-quality ceiling grid and water-resistant tiles by visiting our complete line of products.

From commercial remodeling to finishing a basement, CeilingConnex can ensure quality and longevity for all your projects!

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Avoid These Basement Remodeling Mistakes At All Costs!

Basement remodeling is one of the best ways to add comfort, space, and utility to your home. From extra living rooms to home bars to kids’ playrooms, there are many different options for basement remodeling.

However, if you are going to remodel your basement, you need to avoid the most common mistakes to ensure long-lasting quality and comfort.

Basement Remodeling Mistakes That You MUST Avoid

1. Using Wood or Laminate Flooring

We are big fans of a fine wood floor, but if you are remodeling the basement, it’s best to choose a vinyl, ceramic, or porcelain tile. Basements are notorious for moisture, and even when you take the most detailed steps to waterproof your area, you still run the risk of seepage. If you insist on wood floors, it’s only a matter of time until moisture causes significant problems, forcing you to replace the flooring over and over again.

2. Not Soundproofing the Ceiling

While most people are well aware that they should insulate their home to trap in warm temperatures, few people consider the advantages of sound insulation…until they need it. When remodeling a basement, it’s important to consider how sound will travel from one level to the other. For example, if you create a home theater directly below a bedroom, you could have some very unhappy sleepers!

3. Creating a Low Ceiling Height

Many older homes were built with low ceilings. If you are remodeling a house that has stood since the 1950’s or earlier, you probably can’t install a dropped ceiling without significantly restricting overhead space. A better option is to install a direct-mount ceiling, which only takes about an inch of space, as opposed to the six inches to a foot that is required for dropped ceilings.

4. Too Many Rooms, Too Many Walls

If you have an unfinished basement, you may look at the open space and imagine four, five, even six different rooms. When you start dividing up the space, however, you’ll quickly realize that the rooms are small and constricted. In many cases, a rule of three is a good idea. Outside of the utility room and a small bathroom, having no more than three rooms, (preferably two) including one large, open space, is the best practice for a basement layout.

5. Going with the Latest Design Trends

The more bold and trendy your design, the faster it will go out of style. Think about retro orange countertops and shag carpet; at the time, these were the height of style, now they are ugly eye sores. While you can certainly incorporate some current trends into your basement remodel, be sure to stick with time-honored designs that will be appealing in ten, twenty, and thirty years.

Order the Perfect Ceiling for Your Basement Remodel

Visit CeilingConnex and take a look at our large selection of American-made ceiling products.

Whether you are finishing a basement or remodeling a single room, our ceiling grid will provide simple access and easy installation. 

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