How to properly glue ceiling tiles: features of creating an unusual ceiling

The older generation of Russians associates foam ceiling tiles with the expression “cheap but cheerful,” which means: you can get acceptable quality for minimal money. They have no idea that everything is changing rapidly: some types of polystyrene boards are beyond the means of the middle class - only homeowners with high incomes can afford to buy them.

You can learn more about the pros and cons of ceiling tiles, their types, popular manufacturers and installation technology on the StroyGuru website.

Pros and cons of ceiling tiles

Plastic ceiling tiles (PVC, polystyrene) are a modern finishing material with its own strengths and weaknesses.

• small mass. Thanks to this, the material is easy to transport and lift into the apartment, and can be glued to weak (dilapidated) floors. And the glue consumption is minimal - 5-9 dots;
• long service life - from 15 years (budget options) to 100-150 years (expensive tiles);
• price variability. Can be purchased for 18 rubles/piece. - finishing as a whole will be cheaper than painting and wallpapering (with the exception of thin paper wallpaper), slightly inferior to whitewashing, and it can cost 529 rubles per piece, which not everyone can afford;
• good heat and sound insulation properties. The porous structure of the material perfectly dampens sound waves (especially important with noisy neighbors above) and conducts heat poorly - in multi-storey buildings there is no need to carry out additional work to insulate the ceiling space;
• simple installation - all work can be done with your own hands without help. In addition, complex, expensive tools are not needed;
• small thickness (4-14 mm) - the ceiling height will decrease by only 1-2 cm, which is important when finishing ceilings in old “Khrushchev” buildings and private houses with low ceilings;
• hides minor defects in floor slabs and rough wooden ceilings using finishing acrylic putty as an adhesive;
• easy care - can be washed with a damp cloth, rags or sponge with neutral detergents (care instructions below);
• the ability to update or change (if you get tired) the color scheme - just paint with water-based paint;
• fits into any interior design style in all rooms of a house or apartment: living room, bedroom, children's room, kitchen, corridor, etc.;
• wide choice according to: texture - you can buy smooth, rough, embossed, mirror or laminated tiles. Expensive types can imitate wood, leather, textiles, metal, and gold-plated inserts. As a result, it is easy to select ceiling plinths, corners, sockets; form - allows you to implement non-standard design solutions; color and pattern - the variability of colors and patterns simplifies the selection of tiles for the finished interior;
• resistance to fire - treatment with fire retardants transfers the material to the self-extinguishing class: it melts and smolders without maintaining an open flame;
• resistance to high humidity. Can be used in the bathroom, kitchen;
• easy dismantling.

• fragility of material in the budget and mid-price range - special care is required during transportation and work (cutting and adjustment): cracks, chips, and dents may appear;
• Porous tiles require careful selection of adhesive. There are two problems here. The first is that the liquid composition comes through the micro-holes, spoiling the appearance (it cannot be removed unnoticed). The second is that polystyrene shrinks under drops of glue, which is also not good;
• when burning (smoldering), it releases substances hazardous to health;
• low vapor permeability (does not apply to porous materials), which is not significant for reinforced concrete floors, but is critical for wood - it rots intensively;
• deforms at elevated temperatures. Therefore, simple incandescent light bulbs should hang at least 30 cm, and powerful ones - 40 cm;
• Cheap types of tiles absorb odors, soot, and volatile fats, which are almost impossible to remove. In addition, the white color turns yellow over time. The problem is eliminated by painting;
• Not all manufacturers have calibrated tiles - difficulties arise in fitting due to different sizes in edge length and thickness.

Determining the amount of material depending on the ceiling area

In order to find out the required number of tiles, you should calculate the area of ​​the ceiling. If the room resembles the shape of a rectangle, then it is enough to multiply its width and length, the values ​​​​of which are previously measured with a tape measure. If the room has a complex non-standard shape, then it is necessary to measure the length of all sides and depict them on the plan. Next, the drawing should be divided into even rectangles or squares. By determining the area of ​​each section and adding the resulting values, it will be possible to calculate the total area of ​​the ceiling.

Next, you should calculate the area of ​​one product, which is produced mainly in a standard size of 50x50 cm. Thus, the area of ​​one product will be equal to 0.25 m². Now the resulting ceiling area must be divided by the area of ​​one tile and get their total number. However, today manufacturers have begun to produce other sizes of ceiling tiles such as 40×40, 60×60, 40×70, 30×70 and 30×60 cm.

When purchasing tiles for finishing the ceiling, it is worth purchasing 1-2 more products in case of block breakage during gluing or uneven cut

However, it should be remembered that when gluing products, mistakes are possible that will lead to deformation, damage or breakage of the tile. Here it is also worth considering the size of the gaps that form on the ceiling after gluing whole tiles. If you need half a tile to fill them, then the whole product will fill two gaps. And if the size of the space takes up more than half, then a whole tile is consumed. Therefore, the material should be purchased with a certain reserve of about 10% of the total quantity.

Kinds

Ceiling tiles have an unusual classification. The criteria are:

• mode of production;
• materials;
• form;
• type of edge;
• texture;
• dimensions;
• design;
• surface type;
• color.

Mode of production

Manufacturers use three fundamentally different tile manufacturing technologies:

• stamping (pressing);
• injection molding;
• extrusion (extrusion).

Pressing. In the process of making tiles using the stamping method, a mass of foamed polystyrene is compressed in a press to a thickness of 5-8 mm. The result is a square or rectangular sheet with a side length from 30 to 70 cm (the main size is 50x50 cm) and an extruded relief (pattern) on the surface. The slabs obtained using this technology have their pros and cons.

• simple manufacturing technology;
• light weight;
• budget price - the lowest in the class of ceiling tiles;
• Possibility of repeated painting with acrylic paints.

• fragility - when cutting with a knife or correcting the position on the ceiling, it cracks or breaks off in the corners;
• gets dirty quickly (dust, soot and grease get into the pores), but cannot be washed (painted ones can be wiped with a damp cloth);
• only sold in white;
• do not tolerate high humidity well. Therefore, it is not suitable for the bathroom. The toilet and kitchen must be painted;
• the relief pattern is fuzzy and blurry.

Injection casting. The injection production method is a combination of pressing and casting, during which plastic masses melt at high temperatures and then, under pressure of several atmospheres, are fed into molds where they take on the required dimensions and topography of the front part. The method has its strengths and weaknesses.

• the tiles have increased strength - they almost do not break during operation;
• the relief is expressive, clear;
• good sound insulation properties;
• low thermal conductivity coefficient. Thanks to its large thickness (10-14 mm), it perfectly insulates the ceiling space;
• hides minor floor defects;
• easy care - can be cleaned and washed;
• the surface can be white or painted, which increases the choice;
• have water-repellent properties - can be used in any room;
• Beautiful design;
• The joints, when carefully glued, are almost invisible.

• quite high price - it costs 3-4 times more than a pressed plate.

Extrusion. At first glance, it is impossible to produce ceiling tiles using the extrusion method. Those familiar with the technology know that this is a continuous extrusion of the melt (plastic or metal in a viscous state) through a head with the desired shape of holes. The classic version is “Rozhki” pasta. But if you extrude a continuous thin strip, and then apply a relief on it with a press or stick a decorative film, and then cut it into squares or rectangles, you get a ceiling finish. This complex technology makes it possible to obtain plastic with other performance characteristics:

• high strength with minimal thickness (about 3 mm);
• large operational resource;
• the ability to quickly return to its original shape after deformation.

• high density, as a result of which vaporous moisture is not absorbed;
• various textures - metal, wood, natural stone, etc. are imitated using decorative film;
• easy to clean and wash;
• repels dust, dirt, moisture. These properties allow the material to be used in places where hygiene must be maintained: hospitals, clinics, kindergartens, etc.;
• there is a choice between laminated tiles, paintable collections and white slabs that cannot be painted - paint does not stick to a dense, smooth surface;
• easy to glue.

• high price - due to complex technology;
• Translucent - you need white or colorless glue.

For information: colored products using this technology are obtained after adding coloring pigments to the melt.

To summarize: it is easier to glue and care for extruded tiles, but the price is high. Average in quality and price - injection plate. “Capricious” in care and gluing - pressed, but the shortcomings are compensated by the low cost.

Materials

For the manufacture of ceiling tiles use:

• expanded polystyrene (foam plastic). The most common finishing option. It is characterized by low weight, smooth or textured surface, resistance to temperature changes, and practicality. The texture resembles gypsum stucco;
• mineral fiber is a modern material with its own performance characteristics, strengths and weaknesses. The classic representative is Armstrong-type tiles (only collections with Board edges can be glued);
• plastic - represented by polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Thin material, difficult to install, demanding to maintain.

Form

Classic ceiling tiles have a square shape with straight edges. There are many advantages here: it’s easier to create a layout sketch, lay it out, especially in the corners, and it’s easy to combine joints. In addition, you need to take into account the visual perception of the finish - symmetry always looks aesthetically pleasing, the ceiling seems even even with a slight distortion.

To diversify the design, manufacturers offered rectangular slabs and tiles with shaped sides: wavy, concave, convex. After gluing, tiles with complex edge geometry create an attractive pattern that gives the room charm and uniqueness.

Edge type

Based on the type of edge, tiles are divided into 3 types:

• with an edging that forms a clearly visible seam;
• chamfer - the edges of the tile are cut at approximately 45o. After gluing the boards, a beautiful seam is formed. The presence of a bevel allows you to diversify the design due to the layout;
• seamless - the edges of the decorative elements have a perfect cut along the edges, which allows them to be pressed together so tightly during the gluing process that the connecting joint is practically invisible. The ceiling looks like a solid surface. To help in adjusting the pattern or relief, laying direction indicators are applied to the back of the tile.

Texture

The surface of the tile can be:

• smooth;
• smooth with perforation;
• embossed.

Dimensions

The format of the slabs depends on the material of manufacture:

• polystyrene - edge length from 30 to 70 cm in different combinations;
• metal - 30x40, 30x60, 40x40, 50x50, 30x70 cm;
• wood - squares with edge lengths of 30, 50 and 60 cm and rectangles 20x60 and 30x70 cm.

When making ceilings according to individual orders, the length of the rib can reach 1.2 m and the width - 0.6 m.

Design

According to the method of surface design, tiles can be:

• relief - the front side after pressing has protruding elements that form geometric patterns, natural motifs or imitate plaster stucco. There are a huge number of embossing options;
• colored - decorative elements are painted during the production process (dye is added to the molten mass) or after injection;
• volumetric - using embossing and special coloring methods, 3D tiles with a three-dimensional effect are obtained;
• with decorative inserts, most often mirrored. This design technique allows you to get a light, sophisticated coating.

Surface type

The front side of the panels can be:

• glossy - option is possible only after painting;
• matte - gives the natural color of the material;
• mirror - a thin layer of reflective material is applied;
• laminated - a special protective film with a pattern is glued.

Mirror tiles are used in public buildings, matte, glossy and laminated are intended mainly for residential premises.

Blossom

There are more and more alternatives to the standard white color. On sale you can find collections in white-blue, light pink, delicate milk, cream, sand, coffee and gray colors. Golden, silver, copper, brownish, marsh tones look original.

Glue application method

The adhesive composition is applied to the corners of the tile and more in the central part. Small drops are placed on the edges with glue. If there are recesses on the back side, glue is poured into them. A little adhesive is applied to the ceiling.

When using instant glue, do not wait for it to dry, but immediately fix the tiles to the ceiling.

Recommendations for selection

You can drown in the stream of recommendations for choosing tiles, there are so many tips. Some relate to technical characteristics, others to operational ones. When studying the technical parameters, you should pay attention to:

• on the integrity of the panel. Here they look at the back side - there should be no shells, depressions or swellings. If they exist, the technological process is disrupted; there may be hidden defects in the products that will appear during operation. Then the edges are inspected - they should be perfectly smooth, especially in seamless models. After all, the slightest chip will hurt your eyes;
• quality. The easiest way to check is to slowly lift it around the corner. A high-quality panel should rise, slightly bending, without a network of cracks;
• scope of application - the manufacturer indicates for which premises the tiles are intended;
• geometry - the diagonals of a square or rectangle must be the same in length. A millimeter discrepancy will lead to the formation of noticeable seams, which are difficult to hide;
• material safety. The marking shows flammability (G), flammability (V), smoke formation (D), toxicity (T). The class should be within 0 or 1. It is better to refuse a higher value. You can always find a good alternative;
• availability of certificates so as not to run into counterfeits or products that do not meet sanitary standards.

When it comes to performance characteristics, experts advise:

• for the bathroom and kitchen, choose moisture-resistant finishes;
• For modern style, metal and polystyrene with an original shape and seamless connection are better suited. In the classic interior design, only white polystyrene foam tiles with stucco relief or golden inserts do not disturb the harmony;
• suspended ceilings look good with relief tiles. Coffered - with wood, which has decorative recesses and perforations;
• with noisy neighbors above, tiles made using injection technology will help (you can tell by their thickness - more than 10 mm);
• a small room will be visually enlarged by finishing with a 3D effect;
• for frequent repairs, it is better to buy panels that can be painted repeatedly;
• thin slabs are translucent. There are two options here: buy transparent glue or thicker panels.

Preparing the surface for gluing

Before gluing the slabs on the base, it must be prepared correctly. It is necessary to remove all existing poorly holding elements. If whitewash has been used previously and its layer is thick, then it is advised to clean it. You can use the method of cleaning with a spatula, or washing the ceiling with water.

If large defects are found on the surface, then they are covered, for this you can apply a putty solution, this is the best option. But you can also use a plaster mixture.

If the base is loose and crumbling, a primer must be applied; it is also recommended for smoother surfaces. If it is concrete, then the optimal method would be to use “concrete contact”; for gypsum material, the type of deep penetration; when the surface is dry, foam boards begin to be glued.

If large defects are found on the surface, they are covered.

Popular manufacturers

On sale you can choose ceiling tiles to suit every taste according to design, shape and price. Therefore, it is difficult to create a single rating - consumer preferences are different. Nevertheless, we will try to provide a list of the most popular manufacturers.

"Armstrong". Armstrong-type suspended ceilings quickly gained popularity among Russian consumers. The secret of success is a huge assortment, high strength, moisture resistance, and most importantly, prices. The manufacturer offers not only economy-class materials, but also expensive, elite (designer) materials.

The traditional properties of ceiling tiles are complemented by an acoustic effect and reflective properties (creating the illusion of limitless space). A variety of textures, colors and patterns allow you to fit the ceiling into any design. The tiles can have a simple pattern or a structure and texture that accurately imitates wood, stone and other natural materials.

"Albes." The Russian tile manufacturer maintains its position in the building materials market thanks to high quality products, affordable prices and a huge selection of textures and colors, including mirror surfaces.

The high strength of the tiles allows installation without waste due to deformation, cracking and chipping. Excellent design is complemented by resistance to open fire, excellent sound absorption, and good thermal insulation properties.

The products of the Albes production association can be described in three words: durability, originality, aesthetics.

"Knauf". Products from German manufacturers attract buyers with their tile finish, low flammability, good sound absorption, resistance to high humidity, and low thermal conductivity.

Designed for recording studios, concert halls, cinemas and other premises requiring good acoustics. For this reason, it is practically not used in private construction (can be found in home cinemas and rooms for singing or playing musical instruments).

It differs from competitors in shape, types of edges, perforation (round, square, made in the form of a pattern). Plus - you can paint it repeatedly.

"Format". New technologies (American equipment from COMMODORE Plastics) allow the group to supply tiles with the following performance indicators to the retail chain:

• thickness - 4-7 mm;
• clear geometric contours;
• uniform tone of the entire part;
• high level of sound insulation;
• low thermal conductivity coefficient;
• beautiful design;
• Possibility of butt gluing.

The finishing is suitable for both office and residential premises: living room, bedroom, children's room, kitchen, etc.

AMF. The collaboration of the two produced excellent results. The tile has a number of qualities that distinguish it from its competitors:

• rigidity and strength;
• absolute environmental purity (biosoluble mineral fiber, perlite, clay and starch are used);
• high level of moisture resistance;
• purity of color;
• good heat and sound insulation;
• durability;
• simple installation.

"Antares" (Omsk). The company produces high-quality stamped, injection and extruded tiles of various textures, colors, shapes and sizes. Well-established quality control eliminates the supply of defective products to the retail chain.

"Laguna", "Mivi", "Miwe". Chinese enterprises Laguna, Mivi, Miwe supply imitation expensive tiles (Armstrong, Rockfon, etc.) to Russia at low prices. In appearance, the tiles are difficult to distinguish from the original. However, in functionality and performance characteristics it is significantly inferior to the prototype, which, however, is compensated by its low cost.

Despite this, the product finds its buyer. Consumers especially like the following collections: “Lotus”, “Matrix”, “Neva”.

Adhesive for mounting ceiling panels

In order for the facing material to lay flat on the ceiling and perform its functions properly over a long period, it is necessary to choose the right adhesive. The adhesive composition is the basis that holds the tile blocks.

Due to the fact that the panels, due to the force of gravity, always tend downwards, special requirements are put forward for the glue. The adhesion of such a material should be maximum, the color should be white so that the seams are as invisible as possible, and the viscosity should be dense to prevent the panel blocks from moving during the installation process.

The building materials market today offers several types of adhesives for ceiling tiles.

Glue type	Advantages	Flaws
Eltitans(universal)	Universal Transparent Suitable for plaster, wood, concrete Forms a flexible seam	Long drying process
Titanium	Viscous consistency Sold in ready-to-use form Resistant to high humidity and temperature changes	It is necessary to hold the panel for a long time to adhere to the surface
Silicone	Quick clutch Closes the space between tiles Economical consumption Read also:  Plitonit glue (Plitonit): technical characteristics and instructions for use	Incompatible with metal. If it comes in contact with metal, it can cause corrosion.
Acrylic putty	High viscosity Reliable adhesion to any type of surface Can be used to seal tile joints	None
Liquid Nails	Strong adhesion to the surface Long service life - as long as the material being glued	It is impossible to dismantle the tiles for reuse
PVA	Complete absence of odor Transparency of the layer after drying	It is characterized by low viscosity, which increases consumption, as well as a long drying and setting process

You should purchase glue after purchasing the ceiling tiles themselves. It is recommended to do this in one store.

In this case, a specialist will be able to help you make a choice and recommend the most suitable adhesive composition for a particular facing material.

Remember that all adhesive compositions are made on the basis of toxic toxic substances, since we have not yet learned how to produce organic glue. For this reason, it is recommended to work with liquid in a special respirator. For any symptoms of poisoning - dizziness, headache, nausea, you must stop the work process and go out into fresh air

Materials and tools

It is impossible to install a ceiling made of polystyrene foam tiles without some materials and a set of tools. You will need:

• foam ceiling tiles - the quantity is calculated based on the ceiling area and a margin of 10-15%;
• glue;
• primer - the type depends on the adhesive;
• plinth or molding - will close the joint between the wall and the ceiling;
• a stepladder or a strong table - you can only reach the ceiling with their help;
• tape measure (can be replaced by a large metal ruler) - needed for taking measurements;
• pencil - used to sketch the layout of the slabs on paper, transfer the sketch to the ceiling, mark the cutting lines of the tiles when fitting them to the wall;
• blank paper for a sketch of the tile fastening;
• a knife with replaceable blades (stationery) for cutting slabs to size;
• level - helps to control the flatness of the surface of the laid ceiling;
• spatula - for acrylic putty used as glue;
• construction gun for glue in tubes;
• beating cord or thin twine, greased with chalk or coal;
• a container for glue, a roller or a brush for applying it when packaging liquid glue in a bucket, canister or plastic bottle.

Glue selection

You can glue tiles to the ceiling using several types of glue:

• universal, based on various polymers;
• liquid nails;
• PVA, "Bustilat";
• finishing acrylic putty.

In practice, innovative compositions are also used: hot melt adhesive and compound adhesive.

More details about adhesive compositions are described in the material “Glue for ceiling tiles”.

Ceiling preparation

Before gluing the ceiling tiles, prepare the surface of the ceiling itself. To do this, clean it of all kinds of old coatings. This could be paint, whitewash, leftover wallpaper. Cover all irregularities and cracks in the ceiling with putty and prime the surface. To do this, you can use a regular standard primer from the store or dilute the glue with water.

All work can be divided into several stages:

1. Using a spatula, remove whitewash and any other coating residues from the ceiling.
2. Using the same metal tool, apply a thin layer of putty and wait until it dries.
3. Using a brush, apply primer over the putty.

To ensure that the ceiling tiles remain securely on the ceiling, place them on a flat, dried, cleaned and grease-free surface.

Preparatory work

Gluing ceiling tiles begins with preparatory work. They are performed in several stages:

• removal of old finishes;
• surface leveling (carried out when height differences exceed 5 mm);
• primer;
• marking.

Removing trim

Before starting work, the lighting fixtures are removed. Electrical wires are de-energized or insulated. The second option is preferable, because One of the family members may accidentally turn on the electricity.

You can clean the ceiling from finishing using several technologies. It all depends on what is on the ceiling. The wallpaper is first soaked and then removed with a spatula. The tiles can also be removed with a spatula.

Whitewash and water-based paint are washed off with warm water in 2-3 steps. Oil paint can be removed using washes. Other removal methods used on the wall are not acceptable.

Attention: all technologies for getting rid of old finishes are described in detail here.

Leveling the surface

Small surface defects (1-2 mm) will be hidden by any glue. A difference in height of 3-5 mm can be leveled out using finishing acrylic putty as an adhesive. Large differences or blockages will require leveling the surface with plaster or putty solutions (instructions for performing these types of work are given in the material “How to prepare a ceiling for painting with water-based paint?”).

Primer

To increase the adhesive strength of the adhesive to the ceiling, it is primed. General purpose soil can be used. If desired, deep penetration. It’s better not to apply “Betonokontakt” - it’s extra money and the effect is worse than that of deep penetration soil.

The surface is primed twice with a roller. Joints with walls and difficult places are treated with a brush. The second layer is applied to the completely dry first one.

Marking

The most difficult stage in the preparatory work is marking. The visual perception of the ceiling depends on its quality.

When starting to sketch the location of the tiles on the ceiling, you need to solve several problems.

1. Choose a installation method. This determines where the first tile will be glued. The arrangement of elements on the ceiling can be:

• parallel. Sometimes they say: “in rows”;
• with shift;
• diagonal.

Many sites write about checkerboarding but don't explain what it is. And they won’t explain it, because it’s fantasy.

2. Decide how the chandelier will be installed. There are three options here:

• a hole is cut in the panel for electrical wiring;
• between two slabs;
• at the point of convergence of four tiles at once.

3. Find the conditional center, i.e. the place where work will begin. This could be the geometric center of the room, found using two strings stretched diagonally from the corners of the room, or the location of the chandelier if it does not hang in the geometric center of the room.

Once you have decided, you can act. Two lines are drawn from the conditional center, perpendicular to the walls and to each other.

Depending on the installation method and location of the first tile, auxiliary lines are drawn.

A. Diagonal laying. Through the center, using threads, a protractor or a laser level, two diagonals are drawn at an angle of 45° to the walls. The calculation can be done in another way. Measure to the millimeter the distance between the walls across the room. Divide the resulting segment in half and place it on long walls from the perpendicular line in both directions. Connect the resulting points. The result will be the same.

We emphasize that there may be a shift in the scheme to the side. This is not important and will not affect the visual perception of the ceiling.

It is more difficult if the center is shifted both horizontally and vertically. In this case, it will not be possible to get an angle of 45o with the walls. Then the right angles formed by perpendicular lines are divided in half and diagonals are drawn through them.

Laying is carried out according to the scheme given below: first the central tile. In this case, at least two angles must lie strictly on one of the perpendicular lines. Then the side panels are glued in a circle (ideally, all the corners of the first tile are on the lines).

B. Laying in rows. It is easier to mark and lay tiles if their corners meet in the center. The principle of tile placement is well illustrated by the diagram below.

It is much more difficult if you decide to lay the tiles exactly in the center. In this case, additional lines are drawn parallel to the center lines at a distance of ½ the length of the panel edge, and the tile itself is glued as shown in the figure.

Laying pattern with tiles exactly in the center.

C. Laying with shift. Here everything is the same as when laying in rows: the first row is glued along the long axis, and the second with a shift of ½ tile. Some experts limit themselves to two or four lines, and some draw the ceiling for each panel.

How to glue tiles to the ceiling: options for placing products

There are many options for placing ceiling tiles. Photos of beautifully decorated ceilings using this material clearly demonstrate this. Here you can create different geometric shapes and combine products using tiles of different colors. However, each option requires precise marking.

Installation of tiles is carried out mainly from the middle of the ceiling. To determine it, you need to draw two diagonal lines. Next, for easy installation of the tiles, you should draw perpendicular straight lines to each side that pass through the center. This marking is mandatory and universal, regardless of the method of laying the tiles.

Ceiling tile installation options

Helpful advice! It is better to lay ceiling tiles in a small room from a corner, which will create a continuous surface without increasing material consumption.

The main options for installing the product on the ceiling:

• classical;
• diagonal;
• chess order;
• snake

Classic tile laying is done in rows parallel to the walls, starting from the center. This is an ideal option for seamless ceiling tiles, with the help of which a complete facing surface is created. Also, products can be glued in rows with a shift of half a tile. This will give lightness and airiness to the room.

The shape and size of the finishing tiles should be chosen taking into account the height of the ceilings in the room

The second option involves gluing products along diagonal lines, with the help of which the correct laying of the tiles will be monitored. The result is a smooth and beautiful ceiling covering.

To lay tiles in a checkerboard pattern, products of two colors are used, with the help of which the desired checkerboard effect is created by alternating. Laying the tiles begins from the center of the ceiling, placing the edges of the products parallel to the walls. This option allows you to hide imperfections on the ceiling surface.

For the last option you will need tiles of two contrasting shades. The laying of products begins from the center, where a graphic display of a snake twisted in a spiral is created.

Related article:

Foam ceiling tiles: their types and installation features

Types of polystyrene foam ceiling tiles, their advantages and disadvantages, installation features and useful tips for gluing.

Installation instructions

Gluing tiles correctly is not difficult. The work can be performed by any adult family member. To help, we provide complete instructions on how to glue tiles to the ceiling.

Step 1. The tiles are brought into the room where finishing work will be carried out and unpacked. Leave in this position for at least a day - it should warm up to room temperature. If this is not done, it may become deformed during installation.

Step 2. Glue is applied to the back side of the slab (read the recommendations carefully, since it is possible to apply the adhesive mass to both surfaces being glued) in the center and edges in a snake or drops. If necessary, the adhesive is rubbed with a spatula.

Step 3. Wait time for the glue to set (indicated on the package).

Step 4. The tile is pressed against the ceiling according to the selected pattern. The effort is small - the panel may break.

Step 5. The position of the panel is adjusted along the plane (a level is needed) and in relation to the first tile, after which it is kept pressed to the ceiling surface until the glue sets (the time is indicated in the instructions).

Step 6. All operations are repeated with the next tile. It needs to be glued close to the first panel so that the seams are invisible. The glue that appears between the seams is carefully removed with a sponge or rag.

Step 7. Cover the entire ceiling with entire panels.

Step 8. The panels near the walls are cut to size and attached with glue.

Step 9. The seams are sealed with sealant. It is better to use acrylic - it does not turn yellow like silicone.

Step 10. Moldings or plinth are installed - the joint with the wall is closed.

Two gluing technologies

There are two main pasting patterns: from the center or from the corner. It is important to understand how to properly glue ceiling tiles using each method.

I. Pasting from the center

The method of gluing from the center includes the following steps:

1. Start laying the ceiling surface elements from the center to the edges. The midpoint is determined by the point of intersection of the diagonals.
2. Through the central point, draw two perpendiculars to the walls to divide the area into 4 parts.
3. Then lay the products from the center along these lines in parallel.

II. Diagonal pasting

The diagonal method of decor placement implies:

1. Angle separation at 45°.
2. Laying lines diagonally to connect them.

In the photo you can see the diagonal layout of the slabs on the ceiling. At the same time, the seams between them are sealed with sealant.

This technique is necessary for a square-shaped room. If the room has a rectangular shape, then it is necessary to carry out markings similar to the method of pasting from the center. But in addition it is necessary to divide the resulting 4 right angles by diagonals.

In the second option, the base corner of the room is selected. This is the one that is clearly visible when entering the room. A 1 cm mark is placed perpendicularly on the base wall adjacent to it. Then the thread is stretched and secured with tape. It will be a guide, allowing you to start work from the very corner. It is better to do this with 2 or 3 tiles.

Be sure to mark before starting work. It is possible to discover wall unevenness too late, and it will be problematic to correct the work already done. Huge gaps will form on the wall that will be difficult to disguise.

Ceiling tiles as an interior element

There are many design solutions for using ceiling tiles. Let's give some.

• The tiles laid in the center of the ceiling with overhead lamps and baguette around the edges look stylish.

• Laminated panels together with a 3-arm chandelier give the room a festive look.

• The gilded decor, effectively integrated into the interior, will not leave anyone indifferent.

• The coffered ceiling requires no comment.

• A spectacular combination of green walls with a matte ceiling.

Pasting on whitewash

You can consider a way to glue ceiling tiles directly onto the whitewash with your own hands. There are two ways to do this.

I. Using primer

The first method is to apply a primer over the remaining whitewash. It will ensure good adhesion of the slabs to the main surface. You just need to wait for it to dry completely.

II. Removing the whitewash layer with a spatula

The second option involves removing part of the whitewash layer using a spatula. Then a significantly larger amount of glue than usual is applied to the underside of the slabs. The pressing period during gluing increases. This technique allows the glue to penetrate through the remaining layer of whitewash and bond the slabs to the ceiling.

Recommendations for further finishing

Many experts recommend immediately painting unpainted ceiling tiles after gluing or covering them with decorative protective film (do-it-yourself lamination). This allows you to solve several problems:

• protect the foam from mechanical damage;
• strengthen the surface structure;
• increase operational life;
• make cleaning easier, especially in the kitchen, where large amounts of grease settle on the ceiling;
• change the ceiling design.

Painted tiles are repainted after a few years, when the owners get tired of the old color scheme or the ceiling is dirty and cannot be washed.

Safety precautions

When carrying out decorative work on surface gluing, follow the safety rules:

1. Choose a stepladder that is reliable and does not wobble.
2. Turn off the power supply when working near exposed wires or near a chandelier.
3. Cover your breathing system when working with toxic glue.
4. Use gloves to equip and protect your hands from injury.

It is also necessary to protect the respiratory system with a mask when cleaning the ceiling from old coatings

Tips for use

Polystyrene boards accumulate static electricity, which attracts dust, volatile fats, small particles of tobacco smoke, and soot to the surface. If timely cleaning is not carried out, the ceiling quickly loses its original appearance. Regular cleaning helps restore bright colors or whiteness to tiles: dry cleaning or washing. For this you will need:

• vacuum cleaner with a soft brush;
• detergents that dissolve grease and remove other types of contaminants (“Myth”, “Fancy”, “Eared Nanny”, “Sorti” and similar);
• a basin or bucket with warm water;
• a small brush (you can use an old toothbrush) to remove dirt from hard-to-reach places;
• foam sponge or cotton rag;
• dry absorbent cloth;
• paper napkins or towels.

You can get the desired effect by following the following recommendations:

• Porous and matte tiles can only be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or wiped with a dry cloth (sponge). In case of severe contamination, paint with acrylic water-based paints;
• remove stains that appear immediately: first try with a stationery eraser, then, if that doesn’t work, wash;
• Abrasive materials and all types of washing powder are unacceptable - they destroy the structure of the tile;
• avoid heavy contamination. To do this, clean the ceiling at least once a month with a vacuum cleaner with a soft fluffy brush attachment;
• wet cleaning is carried out 1-2 times a year with a well-wrung out cloth. After washing, wipe the tiles with a paper towel or napkins. Otherwise, divorces may remain;
• A specially impregnated sponge will help remove soot;
• Warm salted water removes slight yellowness;
• For white surfaces, you can use bleach.

Disadvantages of tiles

1. It can melt when exposed to high temperatures, so the use of powerful lamps is contraindicated. It is recommended to use pendant lamps with a distance of at least 20 cm from the tile surface.
2. Vapor tightness can promote the formation of mold and mildew, so a hood or strong ventilation is necessary.
3. Cheap options quickly turn yellow and are destroyed by high humidity; painting with water-based paint will help extend the service life.
4. If there are sudden changes in temperature, the tiles may fall off.
5. It is impossible to hide wiring under it.
6. It gets dirty quickly and is difficult to clean.

All models of ceiling tiles differ in their density, texture, and composition.