Acoustics
Kitchens are often noisy working environments, and acoustic control may be needed to allow clear communication among the staff and to limit noise escaping to quieter customer areas. It is not practical to perforate kitchen ceiling panels, as doing so allows contaminants to accumulate above the ceiling. Thermoformed panels avoid this problem because they act as diaphragms which allow noise to pass through the ceiling and dissipate in the cavity above. However, it should be noted thermoformed panels should not be used above ovens, ranges, and exhaust hoods, or where ceiling temperatures exceed limits stated by the manufacturer (e.g. one popular brand of thermoformed panels has a ceiling temperature limit of 49 C [120 F]).
Light reflectance
Ceilings with high light reflectance provide more economical illumination, enhance safety, and improve productivity. Ceilings with high light reflectance help distribute illumination more evenly and less unidirectionally, reducing shadowing and providing a safer working environment.
Back-of-house options
Some key terms used in code, such as “cleanable,” are not defined. Several manufacturers now offer unfaced, premium-grade mineral fiber panels for use in commercial kitchens; and they are offered as cleanable materials, capable of being disinfected. One manufacturer recommends cleaning either by vacuuming or light wiping with a mild detergent, and disinfecting by fogging with a special disinfectant/cleaner, spraying with highly diluted bleach, or wiping with diluted hydrogen peroxide. The manufacturer’s data sheets and warranties indicate the ceiling panels are not to be cleaned any more aggressively than lightly wiping them with a damp cloth.
Other ceiling candidates include stainless steel, anodized or painted aluminum, thermoformed plastic panels, and glass fiber composite panels. These products perform well in humid and dirty environments. They can be washed in place or, if necessary, removed from the ceiling grid to be soaked or hosed (Figure 4).
| BAVARIA DOWNS BANQUET HALL |
 The ballroom at Bavaria Downs was designed for weddings, and its luminous ceiling is part of the festivities. Using color-controlled light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and translucent thermoformed ceiling panels, the popular Chaska, Minnesota event and wedding venue changes its look to suit the occasion. The broad, pitched ceiling can mimic a vast skylight on a beautiful blue afternoon or match the bridesmaid’s gowns. It can even be synced to the sound system. |
Are continuing education credits available?
This article provides valuable insights into meeting ceiling requirements in restaurant settings, addressing crucial factors like aesthetics, acoustics, and hygiene. As a restaurant owner, ensuring the right ceiling design not only enhances the ambiance but also contributes to customer comfort and satisfaction. A must-read for those seeking to create inviting and functional dining spaces.