How to Dress Up Drop Ceilings

Empty the room of any furniture and cover the floor with a tarp or plastic covering. Visually inspect each ceiling tile for any major defects, such as sagging or cracks. Take note of the number of damaged tiles and purchase new ones that match the existing tiles.

Remove one row of ceiling tiles, laying them down on the floor in order. Vacuum both sides with a vacuum attachment and wipe them down with a slightly damp cloth that has been dipped in warm, soapy water. Wipe the tiles down with a clean, damp cloth and let them air dry for a few hours. Repeat this process with each additional row of ceiling tiles, making sure to keep them in order.

Plan your paint scheme. You can refinish all the tiles with the same color, or create a design in your ceiling with different colors. For elaborate designs, use colored sticky-notes to match each tile with the color you want to paint it. You can also replace some of the tiles with more elaborate ones that include medallions, unique textures or designs. Once you have a plan in your head, purchase the necessary products, making sure that the new tiles will hang in your existing grid. When in doubt, contact the original manufacturer of your drop ceiling for a list of products that will work with your system.

Paint the visible side of each ceiling tile with a latex primer and then two to three coats of a latex paint in a color of your choice. If you’re looking to add warmth to the room, darker colors are typically best; however, they can make your space seem smaller. To make a room seem bigger, choose a lighter shade. Make sure to let the paint dry between coats according to the directions on the paint can.

Cut any replacement ceiling tiles or decorative tiles to size by using the original ceiling tile as a guide. Mark off the cut points on the tile with a pencil, and use a straight edge to make exact cut lines on the tile. Then, holding the straight edge firmly in place on the cut line, run the utility knife down the tile slowly to remove the excess. Paint these replacement tiles as well if necessary.

Remove any lenses over your fluorescent lights. Paint the suspended ceiling grid with one to two coats of latex paint in a color of your choice. In most cases, a small roller or paintbrush is best. Make sure to cover any exposed light fixtures, such as fluorescent tubes, with plastic prior to painting. Let this dry according to the directions on the paint can, both between coats and once you’re finished.

Purchase and install new lenses for your fluorescent lighting once the grid is dry. There are numerous options available online or at hardware stores that can dress up both your ceiling and the entire room.

Reinstall all the ceiling tiles in their correct locations. Remove the plastic covering on your floor, and put your furniture back in the room.