There are two main types of ceiling finishes that are common today. There is the ‘Drop' or ‘T' bar ceiling and then there is the drywall finish much like your main floor.

Both styles of ceiling have their advantages and disadvantages.

The ‘T' Bar style ceiling allows for greater access for running wires or addressing plumbing issues from below. The disadvantages of this style are that you immediately lose 3-4" of ceiling height. This is critical on some of the older homes where you start out with only 7'-6". The other disadvantage is the over all look and feel the ‘T' Bar gives to your basement. The ‘T' Bar style tends to be a bit dated and give the rooms an office or retro feel.

The drywall finish is a much more contemporary look and will allow you to maintain the flow which is critical from your main floor to your basement. The disadvantage is that the ceiling will be sealed up and not allow you access to this space. This last item can be alleviated by planning and running any rear speaker wires, cat 5 cabling, or providing access panels where needed prior to closing up the ceiling space.

More and more of basements are being finished with the drywall style, but a professional contractor will educate you on the pros and cons of each treatment and let you make the final decision.