Drop ceilings (tiles on a grid) offer easy access to utilities but lower height. Drywall provides a seamless look but requires more labor.

Scrape away loose material, apply joint compound with a putty knife, sand smooth, and repaint. For larger cracks, use mesh tape before mudding.

For tile, use a carbide-tipped drill bit to avoid cracks, then insert wall anchors. For drywall, find studs or use heavy-duty toggle bolts. Always check weight limits and use appropriate hardware for stability.