Are slat panels too heavy for a ceiling?

They're heavier than drywall alone, so fix them into joists or battens with screws, never just adhesive.

Does a slat ceiling help with echo?

Yes. Ceilings reflect a lot of sound, so they're one of the most effective places for acoustic panels.

Sound: a hard ceiling is one of the biggest sources of echo, especially in rooms with tall or vaulted ceilings. Covering part of it can calm a room noticeably.
Look: a wood slat ceiling adds warmth and makes a room feel designed. It's popular in kitchens, entryways, offices and restaurants.
Continuity: running slats up a wall and across the ceiling creates a dramatic wrap effect.

On a wall, gravity holds the panel against the surface. On a ceiling, gravity pulls it away. That means:

Mechanical fixings are a must. Screw into joists or into battens fixed to the joists. Don't rely on adhesive alone.
Two people at least. A 9.5 ft panel is awkward overhead. Panel lifts or T-supports help.
Plan around fixtures. Mark recessed lights, smoke detectors, vents and sprinklers before you start, and cut openings carefully.
Check local code for any ceiling finish in commercial spaces.

If you're unsure, a ceiling install is a good job for a professional. Ask us for a free installation quote.

Run slats along the longest dimension of the room to make it feel bigger.
A slat "cloud" over a dining table or desk, rather than the whole ceiling, adds warmth and sound absorption with fewer panels.
Wrapping from wall to ceiling? Line up the slats at the corner so the rhythm continues.

COB LED strip in slat gaps or around the edge of a slat cloud gives a clean, dot-free line of light. See slat wall LED lighting.