A common question manufacturers hear is how to properly mount security air distribution devices in different types of ceilings. These specialty grilles, registers and diffusers, intended for use in secure and high-risk areas such as behavioral health and correctional facilities, must be correctly installed to maximize their risk- and tamper-resistant design.
An understanding of the mounting process for both hard ceilings and lay-in ceilings is crucial for specifying the correct device:
- Ceiling Type: Security air distribution devices are specific to the ceiling type, meaning a hard ceiling device can't be placed in a lay-in ceiling.
- Installation Process: The installation process is specific to the type of ceiling. Improper installation will result in extra time, money, and manpower needed to fix mistakes.
- Security: Specifying the right security air distribution device for the correct ceiling type will ensure its effectiveness and compliance with high-risk environment standards.
How to Install a Security Air Distribution Device in a Hard Ceiling
Hard ceilings feature a layer of sheetrock over the roof infrastructure. Security air distribution devices are mounted in openings cut into the sheetrock. For proper installation of security grilles, consider the following:
Framing
Security air distribution devices are heavier than their standard commercial counterparts. As sheetrock is thin and brittle, engineers add framing to independently support a device’s weight. Fasteners are then inserted through the sheetrock and into the sturdy framing material, holding the security air distribution device in place.
Common materials used for framing include wood 2x4s and metal studs. Framing is not to be confused with the frame of the security device or the flange surrounding it.
Tamper-Resistant Fasteners
Instead of conventional slot and Phillips head screws, security air distribution devices are surface-mounted with tamper-resistant fasteners. These security screws feature a unique head shape that requires a special tool to adjust, preventing tampering by store-bought screwdrivers.
Security Sealant
Security sealant or “pick-proof caulk” is applied to all four sides of the security air distribution device to seal any gaps between the sheetrock, fasteners, and the security air distribution device. This substance cures hard and is difficult to destroy or pick apart, preventing devices from being pried loose to access the duct space or create ligature points.
How to Install a Security Air Distribution Device in a Lay-in Ceiling
Lay-in ceilings are made up of panels suspended in a ceiling grid that hangs below the ceiling infrastructure. Security air distribution devices are installed so that they fill in the entire ceiling grid space. For proper installation, consider the following:
Hanging Wires
The increased weight of security air distribution devices compared to conventional grilles, registers, and diffusers means they cannot be suspended directly from the ceiling grid. Instead, hanging wires, cable, or hanging straps are used to independently support the weight of security air distribution devices, ensuring the device is level with the grid in which it rests.
Lockdown Tabs
Lockdown tabs are a feature found on some ceiling grids. They are barbed tabs that go above the ceiling panel or grille frame, preventing the panel or grille from being nudged up from below.
Ceiling Grid Module Size
A properly installed security air distribution device fully takes up the size of a cell or module of a ceiling grid. If the module is larger than the grille itself, it can be surrounded by filler panels or an extended face flange to extend its surface area.
Why KEES
KEES manufactures security air distribution devices that are a level above. Our security grilles, registers, and diffusers are tailor-made for our clients’ specific hard and lay-in ceiling installations, making installation a snap.
Custom Sizing: KEES works with clients to create security air distribution devices in just the right size and configuration for their projects’ needs. Whether large or small, our products are manufactured to meet low-, medium-, and high-security environment standards.
Fasteners Included: At KEES, all our security air distribution devices come with security fasteners in your choice of head type. We paint our fasteners at the same time as our grilles, producing a matching set for a seamless installation.
