Metal Ceiling Installation

[LIFTED]

I'm starting to install 3' x 8' ribbed metal panels on my garage ceiling 21' x 39'.

I put up 3 panels, then took 2 down because it they were getting out of square.

Any tips on keeping these straight so I don't end up at a 45 by the time I get to the other side of the ceiling?

 

[The Cobbler]

snap a chalk line?

 

[AndyCBR]

Any cut goods need to be installed with a stringline along the long axis of the building with long side of the sheet. Once you get the first run up then you can typically align the long sides from then on.

Even plywood factory edges aren't truly square with the long side.

 

[schurtjl]

As has been said, you need to snap a line off on side or the other of the building. Then use a tape measure off that line and mark every 3’ all the way to the other side of the building. Don’t individually measure 3’ from each mark. Keep the tape secured at the original mark and mark every three feet. If you move the tape measure each time, there’s a good chance you’ll be off at the opposite side of the building. I used a 100’ steel tape measure across a 56’ span, and was within a 1/16” on the other side. Each sheet you put up, the first screws started needs to be on the marked line, then work your way back to the previous sheet.

 

[readhead]

You can shrink or stretch the sheets to stay on layout. I have actually seen sheets that are wider on one end and it will cause problems quickly. Snap lines and you should be alright.

 

[BigGarage]

I'm starting to install 3' x 8' ribbed metal panels on my garage ceiling 21' x 39'.

I put up 3 panels, then took 2 down because it they were getting out of square.

Any tips on keeping these straight so I don't end up at a 45 by the time I get to the other side of the ceiling?

I don't know if this applies in your situation but when I put a metal ceiling in my garage bathroom I learned that most ceilings aren't square and the higher up you go the less the walls are square. You may want to start a run of panels in the center as a guide, snap the line as others have suggested and then follow the 1st run to both walls.

Dennis

 

[LIFTED]

Got It all up, its not perfect, but it is much better than insulation fall on my head.

Thanks for the replies.