Your ceiling is the fifth wall of your home, and it can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of a room. More than that, it also plays an important role in energy efficiency and soundproofing.

Ceiling installers near you can help you choose the right materials and style for your needs, and will ensure that the job is done to the highest standards.

This guide will explore everything you need to know about ceiling installers, including:

• What projects ceiling installers complete
• The most common ceiling issues
• The cost of hiring a ceiling installer
• Factors that might affect your total cost
• How to hire a reputable local ceiling installer
• Licensing for ceiling installers
• Getting quotes from ceiling installers

What does a ceiling installer do?

Ceiling installers are responsible for the installation, repair, and replacement of ceilings in homes and businesses. They work with a variety of materials, including drywall, gyprock, and acoustic tiles. 

They work alongside their clients to choose the right materials and ceiling design to meet their needs. Then, they’ll install the ceiling according to code.

The most common types of ceilings include:

• Suspended, false or drop ceiling
• Panel ceiling
• Beam ceiling
• Vaulted ceiling.

The most common ceiling issues

Ceiling installers can help you with a variety of ceiling services, from new installations to repairs and replacements.

Some of the most common ceiling issues include:

• Cracks and holes in the ceiling, caused by water damage, settling or structural damage
• Sagging ceilings, caused by excessive weight or improper installation
• Water stains, due to leaks in the roof
• Rampant mould and mildew due to poor ventilation.

How much does it cost to install a ceiling in Australia?

Expect your installer to quote you on a per square metre basis, with materials and labour individually itemised. If you’re installing a gyprock ceiling, the cost per square metre is between $25 to $60. If you’re installing a dropped ceiling—a good alternative if you don’t want to tear down the original ceiling—it costs between $70 and $130 per square metre.

On average, the cost to repair a standard sized bedroom ceiling in Australia ranges from $1200 to $2500. However, the price may vary depending on the size of the job and severity of the damage.

For example, A1 Ceilings in Western Australia price their services between $500 to $5000 per room depending on the classification of the job:

• A small job, with a minor repairs, costs $500
• A medium job, including a repair or restoration of ceiling, costs between $1000 and $2000
• A major job, with a total ceiling replacement, costs between $2000 and $5000.

Factors that affect the cost of a ceiling installation 

Some of the factors that will increase the cost of the job, include:

• A large surface area,, requiring more materials and labour
• Serious damage to the existing ceiling
• Using material with a high cost per square metre, such as acoustic tiles
• Complex designs with mouldings, coffers or custom patterns
• Choosing integrated lighting fixtures, ventilation systems or soundproofing.

On the other hand, the most cost-effective ceilings to install are:

• In a smaller room
• Made of drywall or gyprock
• A standard, flat ceiling without decorative additions.

Read more: How much does plastering cost? and How much does Gyprock installation cost?

How to hire a reputable local ceiling installer

When hiring someone to work on your ceiling, it’s important to choose someone reputable.

When making enquiries, remember to ask your ceiling installer:

• How long have you been in business?
• Are you insured?
• Are you licensed? (Only if applicable in your state or territory) 
• Can I see examples of your previous work?
• What types of materials do you use?
• What is your warranty?
• How long will the job take?

Licensing for ceiling installers

Licensing in Australia depends on both location and project scope.

• New South Wales: Ceiling installers in New South Wales require a Wall and Ceiling Lining Licence for residential work over $5,000.
• South Australia: Ceiling insulation work is regulated and requires a licence under the Building Work Contractors Act 1995.
• Queensland: Certain projects in Queensland, such as fire-rated ceilings, require a "Fire Protection - Passive - Install and Maintain - Fire and Smoke Walls and Fire-Rated Ceilings" licence issued by the QBCC.

Getting quotes from ceiling installers

When comparing quotes from ceiling installers, it is important to consider the scope of work to be done. Make sure to get everything in writing, including the cost of materials, labour, and any additional fees. You may also want to ask about the installer's warranty policy.

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.