Replies

1. 
   Mike_Smith | Jun 20, 2001 01:33pm | #1

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   mark your level line around the walls.. then run a string line across..

   hang your false ceiling by nailing scabs to the sides...just move them up or down to the stringline..

   if you had a laser.. this would be the ideal place for it..

1. 
   The_Sweaty_Carpenter | Jun 22, 2001 01:46am | #2

   *I run a level line around the perimeter of the room with a transit. For a bathroom, a good level would probably work nearly as well. I then rip 2 x 4's in half (1 1/2" x 1 5/8"), predrill (3/16") every couple of feet, and screw them to the bottom of the ceiling joists. Next, I take a chalk line and pop a line along the side of the "shims", using the level line on either end as guides.Next, I remove the marked shims and rip to the chalk line. Last, I rescrew them to the bottom of the joists. This system allows minimal use of lumber, and does not take up any additional joist bay space. When installing exhaust fans or can lights, joist-bay space is often at a premium.This also makes for a much neater looking job than adding a bunch of scabs onto the sides.The Sweaty Carpenter

1. 
   Steve_Zerby | Jun 22, 2001 01:58am | #3

   *If "flat" is good enough (as opposed to level), just running strapping of rough-cut 1x3 or 1x4 or even 2x4 stock perpendicular to the joists will allow you to shim the strapping to dead flat as you go.By the way, if that fan/light/heat usit is to go in what will be a thermal boundary, think twice about the heat part of it. It can create big problems.Steve

1. 
   Mike_Smith | Jun 22, 2001 02:48am | #4

   *ken...<<<> i'm sure it does..but what's the point ?

1. 
   Tim_Kline | Jun 22, 2001 03:46am | #5

   *b WBA At Your ServiceThe cost savings using the "bunch of scabs" method could easily pay for the new exhaust fan. I love the look of neat and clean, too. Most customers aren't willing to pay extra for neat and clean when buried under drywall.

2. 
   Pete_Draganic | Jun 25, 2001 04:13pm | #6

   *You could also elicit the use of a water level (clear platic tube with water in it). This can be extremely accurate once you "master" the technique. Just be glad they invented clear tubing or you'd have to fill the whole room up with water to get it right!!Pete

2. 
   Pat_Burke | Jun 25, 2001 04:31pm | #7

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   Hi all, I'm in the middle of a bathroom renovation and need to lower the ceiling to install an exhaust fan , heater, light combo. I figure I'll sister some 2 x 4s alongside the old joists. How do I keep the new ceiling flat and square. I have an 8 ft level and two 4 ft levels and a couple of string levels. Any suggestions ? Thanks, Pat from Breezy