Pressed metals have long been used to adorn ceilings. Pressed tin reached the height of its popularity in the late 1800s but is rarely used today because of its high cost. Today pressed steel is available to decorate not only ceilings but also stove backsplashes, walls and wainscoting. Pressed-metal tiles may be purchased to make umbrella stands and other decorative accessories. Pressed plate metal is available in many finishes and patterns, from simple to ornate. The steel is molded into a variety of textures and patterns by a molding press, then coated with a finish of brass, chrome, copper or paint. Plate metal commonly comes in 2' by 4' sheets, with the least expensive finishes starting at about $2.50 a foot. The more expensive metal finishes, such as chrome, cost about $7 a foot. Steel cornices and trim pieces used to finish off a ceiling and serve as crown molding are also available. A good beginner's project would be to install a pressed-metal ceiling on a small area such as an entryway. First measure the dimensions of the area and lay out the metal pieces to see how they fit. Cut them to size, if necessary, using sharp metal shears. The edges of the metal are very sharp: wear heavy gloves to protect your hands. It's best to install the metal plates over furring strips or plywood to provide a firm surface for installation. Furring strips are normally nailed around the perimeter of the ceiling and at 12" intervals perpendicular to the ceiling beams. Plywood, 3/8" to 1/2" thick, installed over the entire ceiling is considered a better surface. Install the metal plates with a hammer and nails, avoiding the use of glue or adhesive, which might damage the metal finish. Use cone-head nails coated in brass, steel or copper to blend with the metal surface. Pieces are overlapped (figure A), not butted up against each other.
A pressed-metal ceiling takes paint beautifully, but use only an oil-based paint. Water-based paints will cause the metal to rust.
RESOURCES :
Chelsea Decorative Metal Company
Chelsea Decorative Metal Company
Houston, TX 77074
Phone: 713-721-9200
Fax: 713-776-8661
Website: www.thetinman.com
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