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Writer's pictureAnthony Carnicella

How to Drywall Hang and Tape a Tray Ceiling

DIY Drywall Hanging, Taping, and Framing a Tray Ceiling


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A tray ceiling, known as an inverted or recessed ceiling, includes a central section that is elevated by several inches (or several feet) compared to the surrounding areas of the room. This design enables the utilization of painted trim colors that can transform the space.



Tray Ceiling
Tray Ceiling

Tray ceilings are most effective in spacious rooms with tall ceilings, helping to prevent a room from feeling overly large by adding visual dimension. The raised center of the ceiling offers an opportunity to create a focal point with the addition of an elegant chandelier, pendant light, or ceiling fan. This central area also serves as an ideal spot for a ceiling mural, with popular choices including scenes featuring clouds or stars, although any scene that resonates with you can be painted.

Many homeowners opt to incorporate concealed tube lighting around the perimeter of the tray ceiling, particularly appealing when the lights are dimmable for creating a cozy ambiance.



When designing your tray ceiling, you have the option to either align it with the shape of your room or create a unique shape to enhance the visual appeal of the space. If your ceiling is exceptionally high, between ten to twelve feet, you may consider installing a double tray ceiling to create a striking architectural focal point above. To enhance the aesthetic, you can opt for elaborate trim work painted or stained in hues that complement your walls and furnishings. Alternatively, for a more contemporary and minimalist look, skip the trim and focus on lighting as a central feature, either around the edges or through a hanging fixture.


You have the choice of hiring a professional contractor to construct your tray ceiling or undertaking the project yourself. Before making a decision, assess the project's complexity, the desired aesthetics and materials, as well as your budget.


Working with drywall on a tray ceiling can be more intricate compared to flat ceilings due to the additional angles and corners involved. Nonetheless, with meticulous planning and execution, you can achieve a polished, professional outcome. Here is a detailed guide to lead you through the process.


1. Preparation

Materials Needed:

  • Drywall sheets (1/2" or 5/8", depending on your ceiling structure).

  • Drywall screws or nails.

  • Fiberglass mesh tape.

  • Joint compound.

  • Corner bead (for inside and outside corners).

  • Tools: Utility knife, drywall saw, drill or screw gun, T-square, taping knife, sanding tools, ladder or scaffolding, and a drywall lift (optional).

Safety Gear:

  • Safety goggles.

  • Dust mask.

  • Work gloves.


2. Measuring and Cutting

Measure the Ceiling:

  • Measure each section of the tray ceiling, including the horizontal and vertical surfaces, as well as the angled transitions.

Cut Drywall Sheets:

  • Cut drywall sheets to fit each section. It’s often best to measure twice and cut once to avoid waste. Use a utility knife for straight cuts and a drywall saw for more complex shapes.

Pre-Cut Openings:

  • If there are any light fixtures or vents, cut out openings in the drywall before hanging it.


Install Drywall on the Flat Section First:

  1. Ceiling Center: Start with the central, flat section of the ceiling. Use a drywall lift to hold the sheet in place while you secure it with screws.

  2. Screw Placement: Drive screws into the drywall, ensuring they are spaced about 12 inches apart along the edges and 16 inches apart in the field (center area).

Hanging on the Tray Sections:

  1. Vertical and Angled Sections: Next, install the drywall on the vertical and angled sections of the tray ceiling. Align the edges carefully with the existing drywall on the flat ceiling to ensure a smooth transition.

  2. Cut and Fit: Cut drywall to fit the sections precisely, leaving a small gap (about 1/8 inch) between sheets for expansion and contraction.

  3. Secure in Place: Use screws to secure the drywall, making sure they are flush with the surface to avoid bulging under the tape and compound.

Final Section:

  • Perimeter Walls: Finally, drywall the perimeter walls of the tray ceiling, cutting and fitting the pieces as needed.


4. Taping and Mudding

Prepare for Taping:

  • Clean the joints to remove any dust or debris.

Apply Mesh Tape:

  • Apply fiberglass mesh tape along all joints, seams, and inside corners. For outside corners, use metal or paper-faced corner bead to reinforce and protect the edges.

Apply Joint Compound:

  1. First Coat: Using a taping knife, apply a thin layer of joint compound over the tape, pressing it into the joint to fill any gaps. Feather the edges out about 2-3 inches beyond the tape.

  2. Corners: For inside corners, use a corner trowel to apply the compound smoothly. For outside corners, cover the corner bead with a layer of compound, ensuring even coverage.

Let Dry and Sand:

  • Allow the first coat to dry completely. Sand it lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections.

Second Coat:

  1. Wider Spread: Apply a second, wider coat of compound, extending it 4-6 inches beyond the first coat to blend with the surrounding drywall.

  2. Smooth Finish: Use long, even strokes to ensure a smooth, even application.

Final Coat:

  • Apply a third coat if needed, feathering it out even further to ensure a seamless finish.

Sanding:

  • Sand the final coat gently to achieve a smooth surface. Be careful not to sand too aggressively, which can damage the drywall or expose the tape.


5. Finishing Touches

Priming:

  • Apply a primer to the entire ceiling, which helps to seal the drywall and provides a good base for the paint.

Painting:

  • Once the primer is dry, apply at least two coats of paint. Choose a paint finish suitable for ceilings, typically a flat or matte finish to minimize reflections and imperfections.

Final Inspection:

  • Inspect the ceiling for any missed spots or rough areas. Make any necessary touch-ups with joint compound and paint to ensure a flawless finish.


6. Special Considerations

Access and Safety:

  • Use ladders or scaffolding to safely reach all areas of the tray ceiling. Ensure stability and safety at all times.

Light Fixtures and Vents:

  • Carefully cut around light fixtures and vents, and seal the edges to prevent moisture ingress and ensure a clean finish.

Texture (Optional):

  • If you prefer a textured finish, consider applying a texture compound after the final coat of joint compound is dry and sanded. Common options include knockdown, orange peel, or stipple textures.

By following these steps, you can achieve a professional-looking tray ceiling with a smooth, seamless finish. Proper preparation, careful installation, and meticulous taping and mudding are key to a successful drywall project.

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