Traditional Ceilings

Flat Ceilings

• Flat ceilings are the most common type of traditional ceiling in homes. Usually painted white, they are covered in a matte finish paint so as not to cause reflections or shine. Such ceilings are made of plaster or drywall, often matching the materials of the walls of the home. In some cases, they are painted in colors other than white: clouds or the night sky are frequently found painted onto children’s bedroom ceilings. In houses with recessed ceilings, which have an outside edge and an inner area that is deeper, the edges are sometimes painted to match the rest of the room. Sometimes flat ceilings are covered with “popcorn” texture, a finish much like stucco that adds textural interest to a room.

Tin Ceilings

• Tin ceilings were popular at the turn of the 19th century. Tin was fireproof and lightweight, and could be installed when a building was new or over an existing ceiling, covering up damage or an unwanted design or color. Tin tiles were pressed into often intricate patterns and soldered together to make large panels for ceilings. They were common in businesses and shops, but also in kitchens in private residences. Tin was usually painted, but in some cases was left to develop its own natural patina over time. Many companies make tin ceiling tiles that replicate those made more than a century ago.

Coffered Ceilings

• Coffered ceilings use squares, octagonal or other shapes that are recessed between crossbeams, creating a highly textured look. Common in homes in Europe in the Renaissance, they were usually installed in large homes in the United States in which the owner wanted to display wealth. Coffered ceilings are used to help reduce noise and visually break up large expanses of ceiling.

Tiled Ceilings

• Tiled ceilings are traditional in offices and business buildings, and in finished basements. These ceilings are comprised of a grid of metal or plastic supports and foam tiles. This kind of foam tiling often absorbs sound, creating a quieter environment, and the tiles are easily swapped out when one is damaged or stained. Acoustic tile, related to regular ceiling tile, is frequently used in recording studios and music schools’ practice rooms.