Donn grid is the metal framework that holds the tiles in place — the white lattice seen in commercial ceilings made of main tees, cross tees, and wall angles. With many years of experience, Donn is one of the most respected manufacturers of quality gridwork from standard white exposed grids to more specialized systems such as those that are corrosion resistant. This guide explains what the grid is, how the parts fit together, and why the grid is just as important as the tile.
The grid acts as the framework of the ceiling.
A suspended ceiling has two parts: the tiles and the gridthat supports them. The grid is held up to the structural soffit with wires and creates a level system with rectangular gaps (modules) into which the tiles are inserted. If the grid is properly installed, all tiles will be flat, level, and secure; if it is improperly installed, no tile will be correctly positioned. Donn manufactures the grids as the pre-fabricated metal components of that system.
The three core components
An Exposed grid standard construction has three main elements available from RCT in the Donn range:
How they fit together
The primary tees run parallel across the ceiling and are suspended on hanger wires at regular intervals. Cross tees clip between these tees at right angles. 1200mm cross tees establish the primary module width and 600mm cross tees subdivide this to create the standard 600 x 600mm modules (which take a 595mm tile). The wall angle runs around the perimeter of the room and is wall fixed to support the grid and tiles at the perimeter intersection. These components together create a firm, even structure.
Grid face widths: 24mm and 15mm
Exposed grids have different face widths, which is the width of metal that is visible between the tiles. RCT holds stocks of Donn grids with different faces.24mmsmaller The face is the most general industry standard for lay-in (square edge) and tegular tiles. The face.15mmfiner The face is designed for microlook-edge tiles to create a more shadow line. The grid face width must match the tile edge detail; therefore, the two are always selected in combination.
Why the grid choice matters
The grid determines size of modules, appearance of the finished ceiling and above all, how the ceiling will operate under extreme conditions. A standard white grid works for most commercial interiors. In some cases, we specify a grid that is specially designed for non-corrosive purposes so that the framework doesn’t rust or stain. Donn manufactures standard and specialized systems so that the grid can match the surrounding environments and the tile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Donn ceiling grid?
Donn is an expert in the manufacture of suspended ceiling grids, the construction of metal frameworks made up of main tees, cross tees, and wall angles which support and set the position of ceiling tiles. They offer white exposed grids and systems that are resistant to corrosion.
What is a suspended ceiling grid
RCT stocks all three types of the Donn range. Main tees are the primary load bearing runners. Cross tees are the shorter sections that clip between them to form modules. And Wall angle is the perimeter trim which is fixed to the walls.
Main tees are the longest spans that run perpendicular to the cross tees in a suspended ceiling grid. Cross tees are shorter spans that connect to the main tees and they are used to support ceiling tiles.
Main tees run the longest and span the ceiling and are suspended from the soffit while cross tees are the shorter pieces that clip between the main tees at right angles to form rectangular openings for tiles.
What is the grid face width available for Donn?
The stocked Donn grid RCT tiles have a 24mm face, which is the industry standard for lay-in and tegular tiles. A 15mm face is used with microlook-edge tiles to achieve a more subtle shadow line.
Explore our stock for Donn main tees, cross tees, and wall angles.Donn grid category page.
Unsure which grid components you need? Call01939 251 450and our team will assist you with this, orrequest a quote for your project.
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