Can I Attach Ceiling Tiles Without a Dropped Ceiling?

Tin Ceiling Tiles

• Tin ceiling tiles are typically nailed to the ceiling through the ceiling joists. There are two main options with this type of ceiling material. You can purchase antique tiles that have been reclaimed or new tiles manufactured to look like old-fashioned tin tiles. Reclaimed tin is generally very expensive while new tin tiles are somewhat more affordable. Tin ceiling tiles are the most costly new ceiling application for hanging tiles.

Foam Ceiling Tiles

• Foam or polystyrene ceiling tiles are manufactured to give the look of tin at a fraction of the cost. These tiles can be purchased in white or in many different colors and finishes. While they are incredibly lightweight, with each tile weighing just a few ounces, they are also durable and very hard. If you are covering an existing plaster or drywall ceiling, these tiles are a good option due to their light weight and their ability to cling to any surface.

Underlayment

• If you are not removing the existing ceiling, plywood underlayment sheets are a good option before you hang tiles. This provides a clean surface for adhesive tiles to grip, and they will not add too much weight to the existing ceiling. Plywood underlayment is a good choice if you are concerned about an old drywall ceiling that may crumble but do not have the budget to replace it. This will give you a firm surface that will catch any crumbling material. Underlayment must be attached directly to the ceiling joists.

Types of Tiles That Will Not Work

• Acoustic tiles or regular ceiling tiles cannot be glued over an existing ceiling or nailed in place. This is due to their weight and their construction. These tiles will only work with a dropped ceiling system. In this type of installation, a grid framework is suspended from the ceiling joists. The tiles are then laid directly onto this grid work. Commonly, a dropped ceiling will reduce the overall ceiling height by about 2 feet.