Wooden cleats You'll need something to hold that insulation in place. I cut 1-1/2- by 1-1/2-inch strips of wood, then screw them to the faces of each basement ceiling joist with 2-1/2-inch deck ...

You can also paint 2-foot by 2-foot ceiling tiles to match your basement design. For media rooms or man caves, consider trendy black panels for a dramatic accent.

I am usually upstairs in a more quiet Zen zone. The seven-foot ceilings are acoustic tiles, but some are water-stained. To update the look, we are considering installing drywall instead.

Another advantage acoustical ceilings have over permanent ceiling coverings is they are removable, which can be a lifesaver in a basement strewn with pipes, ducts and wiring. Since most codes ...