[Curious_16]

Just wondering - is it normal/acceptable to just drywall over an existing ceiling instead of taking it out and attaching the drywall to the joists?

Any thoughts would be appreciated!

 

[redline]

How large is the ceiling?

What material is the "old" ceiling?

 

[jogr]

If insulation is above the ceiling it can be a lot less messy to just layer it as you described. If the existing drywall is not level you can attach/level furring strips through it to the ceiling joists and attach the new drywall to the furring strips.

 

[Curious_16]

I'm not exactly sure how big, its several rooms - probably 1500 sq ft or so. And I'm not sure what it is now. Its not tiles, its all one "piece", but needs to be replaced (or I guess covered) because the prior owner had lots of strange light fixtures and other wiring coming through the ceiling.

I just wondered because it appears that is what our contractor is doing and I wondered why...

Thanks!!

 

[Scuba_Dave]

If it's on the 2nd floor it will give you a little added insulation
If on the 1st floor it will cut down on noise between floors

 

[SNC]

I would not say it is normal, but there really isnt a problem with it. Better fire protection. And as mentioned sound. As long as the fasteners are long enough.

 

[Scuba_Dave]

I think its normal when the attic has blown-in insulation
And in old houses there is a lot of dust & junk above the drywall
Former owner here added 3/8" drywall on top of the old 3/4" wall in one room

 

[bjbatlanta]

A lot less mess from tear out and less cost (less labor if no tear out) by going over what's there. It's quite common and acceptable....