Metal Ceiling Tiles Overview
Stamped metal ceiling tiles are durable and attractive additions to a building. Although some of them can be expensive, the luxurious patterns they create will give a ceiling an elegant look that might be worth the price. You can also buy cheaper “faux” discounted metal ceiling tiles, which still look nice. Because metal ceiling tiles were used when constructing older buildings, they are good for restoration purposes. USG Metal ceiling tiles offer a variety of advantages to a home or building owner, depending on what type of metal they are made of.
A Few Types of Metal Tiles
Tin
Tin ceiling tiles are often not made of tin, but are actually made of aluminum. This has a number of advantages, because aluminum is both durable and rust resistant. This means that tin tiles will need virtually no upkeep, and can last for quite a while. In addition, tin tiles are known for their ornate patterns, and are popular for restoring historical buildings houses to their original conditions.
Faux Tin
These are less expensive than tin ceiling tiles, but often look quite nice. Many of them can be purchased for under $10 for a 12” x 12” tile.
Copper
Copper is quite strong, and conducts heat very well. However, copper tiles are likely to tarnish in damp air. Therefore, if you are installing copper tiles in your home or building, it should not be put in a room that naturally has a lot of moisture, such as a bathroom. You may even want to avoid putting them in the kitchen with low ceiling, because vapors from boiling water could damage the tiles.
This type of ceiling tile is harder to find, but if you look online you should be able to find some for purchase.
Installation
You do not need a professional to install metal ceiling tiles. Many of them can be installed simply by painting an adhesive onto a ceiling, and then placing the tiles. Some tiles (especially tin tiles) should be installed using tacking nails.One good technique to practice before installing them is to lay them out on the floor, so you will be familiar with how the pattern will look once it’s installed on the ceiling.While installing, you’ll need to take some time make sure your tiles are squared with each other, and to find the center of the ceiling. Often you may want to install a ceiling medallion (an ornate piece of artwork) in the center of the ceiling, so it’s good to know where the exact center is.
Care
Most of these tiles will not require much care, as long the room is not humid or moist. They may require dusting from time to time to keep them looking new.Metal ceiling tiles are elegant, classic, and perfect for restoring an old house. If they are too pricey for you, you should check out other ceiling types to find something that is still attractive, but more within the range of money you’d like to spend on your project.
