I was looking at these panels to provide acoustic absorption on my ceiling. I had already installed acoustic foam around the walls of my studio, and this appeared to be ideal for my ceiling space and "complete" the room. When I first received the panels I was a bit concerned with how heavy they were (24x48x2 inch panels). They actually weighed more than I expected. Granted: they are not super heavy for what they are, but when you are thinking of mounting these on the ceiling, you want to ensure they are not going to come down on top of you.
The included Z clamps are NOT meant for ceiling installation (wall installation only) so I had to devise a solution that was going to secure them to the ceiling safely. I tried to research online the best way to do it which was also not terribly complicated (I am handy, but I would not write home about it). Unfortunately, nothing really suited my scenario. So I devised my own method of getting these panels ceiling mounted (with images included)...
First Step: You want to buy two things. A set of 4 D hooks per panel (often used for picture / artwork frame installations), and ceiling anchor hooks (also 4 per panel). Both should be available at your local hardware store or warehouse. You will need 4 D hooks and 4 anchors per frame for a even installation and to distribute the weight.
Second Step: You need to screw the D hooks into the back of the panels near to the corners. Go as close as possible to the edge of the panels / frame as this is where it will be thickest. Remember, the backs of these panels are simple sheets of project board nailed onto a thicker wood frame. The frame is what you want to screw into, not the board. Also make sure to not screw in the D hooks over where the fabric folds more than once.
Third Step: Once you have mounted all 4 D hooks to the panels, you need to measure up where you want the panel to go on the ceiling. You will need someone to help you with this. Basically, do the math. Measure up the room and draw a diagram. Then you can use that diagram to determine where the board is going to be placed and give yourself a rough outline of where the hooks need to go. Remember: you only really need to focus on the first hook, because once that is up, it will act as a reference point for all the other hooks.
You then drill your hole for the anchor hook, insert the anchor plug and screw the hook in place. Be sure to screw the hook a little tighter than what you would ordinarily feel comfortable with, as it is essential the anchor has fully "taken" to the ceiling.
Once this first hook is up, you can simply measure the 4 D hook positions on the back of your panel to determine the positions of the other hooks relative to the first hook. Make sure you a constantly measuring from the wall as a second reference point to ensure things are straight.
Last Step: With all four anchor hooks in place, simply lift up your panel and connect the anchor hooks to the D hooks and let it hang! This is where you may also need some help.
I installed 3 of these panels on my ceiling and they do a phenomenal job reducing sound reflections providing excellent absorption! The room tone changed quite dramatically after they went up, and on top of the performance, the ivory color complimented the room perfectly! I can imagine the other colors will serve other rooms well.
Overall, despite being a somewhat unique installation, it worked out perfectly and I couldn't be happier with the results!
| Product Dimensions | 48"L x 24"W |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | ATS Acoustics |
| UPC | 689466275056 |
| Part Number | B-Ivory |
| Item Weight | 8.25 pounds |
| Item model number | 4334435675 |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Color | Ivory |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | No |
