Planning and Installing Tin Ceiling Tiles

By Alden Smith

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Manufacturers of tin ceiling tiles have made many advances in past years to produce tiles that make installation a breeze. Some manufacturers have developed a unique interlocking system for the tiles, making the installation a snap, and cutting back on the need for a heavy mounting system for the tiles. The use of simple masonry and drywall screws is now being used to attach the mounting grid, making it a very easy process for the average do it yourselfer to create a very professional looking job.

The tin ceiling tiles can also be placed in a dropped ceiling grid, although some modification needs to be made to accommodate the difference in size between regular ceiling tile and the tin ceiling tiles. Often, furring strips are attached to the ceiling, allowing for ease of installation and providing a light weight ceiling. When designing a backsplash, a sheet of thin plywood is typically attached to the wall, and the tiles are mounted using both an adhesive and standard brads. This provides a more secure installation in a high traffic area, and is done to prevent damage to the tin tiles.

When planning to install a tin ceiling in your home or office space, put some thought into the finished result. Tin ceiling tiles come in a variety of sizes, from the standard 2' x 2', to sizes ranging from 6' x 2' and 6' x 3'. This offers a wide range of ideas for the installer. Many ornate patterns are available, along with many accessories such as cornices, chair rails, medallions, niches, and even custom made nails for installation. Tin ceiling tiles can be placed into a suspended ceiling grid by adding an extra T bar in the grid to fit the different size of tin tiles. There is something for everyone.

Filler tiles are used to fill in space around the edge of a room.

Typically, the ceiling is divided into four equal sections, using a chalk line to mark placement of the tin ceiling tiles. When this is finished, the room will be marked in equal sections, in a plus pattern, with "crosshairs" in the exact center of the room. Depending on the room and the size of tile used, the installation is started by placing a tile in one corner of the "crosshairs" that have been laid out on the ceiling with the chalk line. The adjacent three corners of the "crosshairs" are then filled with a tile, and the room evolves from there.

Panels are attached using an air powered brad driver, using T shaped brads for installation. Decorative nails can also be used if desired. Depending on the size of the room, and the pattern and size of the tin ceiling tile used, you may come to a place where you cannot place another tile but still have a gap. Manufacturers also make plain filler tiles that are used to fill in the remaining area. A cornice is then placed around the room perimeter to give a very finished look.

With a little careful planning, you can end up with a very elegant ceiling that is sure to impress your visitors with its beauty and charm. Not only are tin ceiling tiles elegant, but they also provide a fire barrier to the ceiling of your home, and are also a great way to control molds and other infestations due to their ease of cleaning.

It is well worth the investment to consider having a piece of American heritage in your home. It not only adds beauty and charm, but increases the resale value of your home. Many manufacturers and retailers abound on the Internet, and there is a price and design for every taste and budget.

< Back to Part 1: Benefits of Historic Tin Ceilings