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How to Install an MF Ceiling
13/04/2026
A metal frame (MF) ceiling is a popular way to create a clean finish for a ceiling, helping to conceal services, utilities and uneven surfaces. While similar to suspended ceilings that are common in offices, an MF ceiling creates a seamless finish and a perfect foundation for additional decorating.
Just as with building a metal stud wall, installing an MF ceiling is a relatively simple step-by-step process involving the creation of a secure grid on which plasterboard can be fitted. Here, we will walk you through the basic steps.
Please note that the following guide is a basic overview, and what you need to do might depend on factors such as the wall you’re attaching to and what plasterboard you’re using. Please consult your MF ceiling manufacturer’s guidance for specific advice before starting work.
MF Ceiling Components – All You’ll Need
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need! Remember, you can get everything to build an MF ceiling system right here at Fastbuild, at great trade prices and with fast delivery.
- MF6A Perimeter Channel
- MF7 Primary Channel
- MF17 Hanger Angles
- Angle Brackets or Acoustic Hangers
- MF5 Furring Channels
- MF9 Clips
- Drywall Screws
- Waferhead Screws
- Plasterboard
Beyond the actual MF ceiling components, there are some other things you’ll need to finish the job, such as:
Step 1: Measure the Drop
First of all, decide where you would like the final ceiling level to be and mark it around the walls of the room. Everything will be cut to size so you can position your ceiling height depending on your needs.
Use either a spirit level or a laser level to ensure your lines are straight.
Step 2: Fix Perimeter Channel
The first thing to fix is the MF6A Perimeter Channel. As the name suggests, this goes around the perimeter of the ceiling, so measure your walls and cut it down to size using tin snips.
The MF6A Perimeter Channel should be fixed at no more than 600mm centres. The screw you use will largely depend on the surface you’re screwing into.
Step 3: Create the Hangers
Now that you know where your ceiling will sit, you can cut your MF17 hangers to size. Measure to the bottom of your perimeter channel and cut the hangers to that length.
Once the hangers are cut to length, attach them to either angle brackets or acoustic hangers. Both do the same job structurally, but acoustic hangers are engineered to reduce vibrations through the structure, which can support soundproofing.
Step 4: Install the Hangers
Where your hangers attach to the existing ceiling needs to be carefully arranged to ensure the MF system is evenly supported across the existing ceiling.
Mark a point on the ceiling at a maximum of 450mm from the wall. This will be the starting point for your hanger grid. Then, mark points at 1200mm intervals from there, then draw straight lines through. A 1200x1200mm grid should be created.
At the intersection of lines on your grid, install the hanger brackets into the existing ceiling.
Step 5: Build the Metal Grid
The next step is fitting the MF7 channel, which will sit on top of the MF6A Perimeter. Cut the MF7 a few millimetres shorter than the MF6A to make it sit easily at 1200mm centres, so it rests next to the hangers. Secure the MF7 channel to the hangers with waferhead screws. If the MF7 doesn’t fit across the room, overlap two pieces by 250mm and screw them together.
Once the MF7 is in place, clip the MF5 Furring Channels into the MF6A with the ‘top hat’ facing down. Place the first MF5 150mm from the perimeter wall, then the rest at 400-450mm centres, depending on what plasterboard you’re using. If the MF5 doesn’t reach across the room, overlap two pieces by 150mm and screw them together.
The MF5 will sit nicely underneath the MF7 and is attached with an MF9 Clip. Check you’re happy that your grid is parallel across, then attach the MF5 to the MF6A Perimeter with waferhead screws.
Step 6: Installing the Plasterboard
With the MF7 and MP9 securely in place, you now have your metal grid onto which you can attach the plasterboard.
Cut your plasterboard to size to ensure that the long edge sits along the centre of your MF5 channels. Screw the plasterboard into the MF5 using plasterboard screws at a maximum of 300mm centres until the MF ceiling is completely covered. You may want to add features, such as insulation and access panels, while fitting the plasterboard.
Once the plasterboard is in place, the MF ceiling system is complete. The next step is usually plastering and decorating to get the perfect finish.
Ready to get started? Shop the full range of MF ceiling components, plasterboard and fixings at Fastbuild - all available at trade prices with fast UK delivery. Order before 4pm for next working day delivery and get everything you need in one go.
