What is the first component of a suspended ceiling?

In the installation of a suspended ceiling, the first component to be installed is wall moldings. Wall moldings serve as the perimeters for the ceiling grid system. They are typically affixed to the top of the wall around the room to provide a secure anchor point for the suspension system. Once the wall moldings are in place, the other components, such as suspension wires and cross tees, can be properly aligned and installed to create the framework that will support the ceiling tiles.

Understanding this sequence is crucial for ensuring that the ceiling is level and accurately supports the tiles. The wall moldings also help to define the height of the ceiling and provide a finished look at the edges where the ceiling meets the walls. Therefore, this initial step is foundational to the entire construction of a suspended ceiling.