Est to Raise Ceilings or Redo Hardwood floors

I dont think I can edit my original post, so please scrap the flooring portion. I've got some initial cost estimates and think I will just sand refinish in matte coating (instead of the current glossy look).

Would love to hear about cost to raise dropped ceiling. thanks!!

it depends on what condition the original ceiling is in. it can be as little as a few thousand to as much at $20K.

why were they dropped -- wiring, air, piping, lighting, and etc?

its the ballroom floor in an old hotel property, so I'm assuming (but dont know for sure) that the surface behind/above the dropped ceiling is finished. I doubt there are loose structural matters there (especially since the dropped ceiling doesnt have recessed lighting or other electric... but I have to say I am not sure. Its a two bedroom in bklyn.

The reno will substantially improve the space and hopefully improve value but our renovation fund is somewhat limited... I will have to pick and chose my projects, e.g., dropping redoing floors for refinishing them, but four, five feet of extra ceiling space will REALLY make a difference if I can afford it.

If it's the kind of dropped ceiling with removable sections, your best bet is to check different spot with a flashlight and see what's up there. At a minimum, you will have to repair holes made for new ceiling support and repaint which can be quite costly depending on finished height which may require scaffolding.

Having gone through this in an office, I can tell you it was a hassle but made an unbelievable difference when everything was finished.