theirs a drop ceiling in my friends house in his basement and he wants to install recessed lights and raise the ceilings height .anyone know how?
Sorry I don't but one way is to pay someone. I a preheat if that's to expensive though as I think it would cost ?3000 depending on the size and who you chose.
If you want to do the beer signs and whatever else you will need something to screw them to that will hold them up. I suggest some plywood might suit your needs, specifically T1-11 for its texture and durability and resistance to moisture (1/2.) The texture says different by itself. It can also hold paint or be stained as if outdoors (where it is often used as a siding.) The durability and strength are needed to suspend whatever you hang to it. It will also fill in the space between the signs. This will give you the varied texture look you are considering. As for moisture even though you may not get any from the concrete walls you still need to worry about spills from above. Since T1-11 is made for exterior use it will be an advantage for your use.
Must explore what is behind drop ceiling. Most likely ductwork or piping. Not much of a chance to raise ceiling height in a basement.
Putting in recessed lights isn't hard in a raised ceiling, you just cut a hole the size of the can and spread the bars so then attach to the ceiling grid and then wire them up. To raise the ceiling though is a tough job for a novice. The grid has to be prefectly level throughout the room. Ceiling installers (carpenter) have a laser level that shoots a beam of light throughout the room. You really need a professional to do this unless you're really good. Could be he could take out the ceiling tiles and measure up from the current grid line, then strike a line level.
